The NFL Draft is a time of hope and anticipation, but for Arizona State's star wide receiver, Jordyn Tyson, it's a chance to prove his worth. Tyson's journey to the draft is a tale of resilience and talent.
Ely Allen brings us the story of Tyson, who recently declared for the 2026 NFL Draft, leaving Arizona State after a remarkable college career. Once a three-star recruit from Allen HS, Texas, Tyson's recruitment began slowly, with offers from smaller programs. But his fortunes changed when he visited Colorado, committing to the Buffaloes and then-coach Karl Dorrell. However, Dorrell's tenure was short-lived, and Tyson found himself in the transfer portal after Deion Sanders took over, resulting in a mass exodus of players.
And this is where Tyson's story takes an intriguing turn. He landed at Arizona State, but injuries plagued his first two years, including a redshirt season in 2023 due to knee issues. Yet, Tyson's talent was undeniable. In 2024, he exploded onto the scene, leading the team in receptions, yards, and touchdowns, becoming the first Sun Devil with a 1,000-yard receiving season since Brandon Aiyuk in 2019. This performance put him on the radar of NFL scouts.
Tyson's 2025 season was impressive despite a hamstring injury, as he still led the team in receiving. His combination of size, speed, and route-running prowess makes him a coveted prospect, but there's a catch. Here's where it gets controversial: Tyson has a history of drops. While he improved significantly in this area, it's a concern for some scouts. But with his ability to win 50-50 balls and outmuscle defenders, he's a force to be reckoned with.
The pre-draft rankings are a testament to Tyson's potential. Dane Brugler of The Athletic has him as the top wide receiver and eighth overall prospect, while ESPN's Matt Miller ranks him 14th overall, with Carnell Tate of Ohio State taking the top WR spot. However, Mel Kiper Jr. of ESPN agrees with Brugler, placing Tyson seventh overall. The debate rages on: Who will be the first wide receiver off the board?
As Tyson prepares for the draft, he'll focus on his health, aiming to silence any doubts about his durability. With his talent and determination, he's poised to make a significant impact in the NFL. Will he live up to the WR1 hype? Only time will tell, and the opinions are sure to be divided. What do you think? Is Tyson destined for greatness, or will his injury history be a lingering concern?
