What's Happening?
NFL draft analyst Daniel Jeremiah has released his second mock draft for the 2026 NFL draft cycle, and Texas A&M's defensive end Cashius Howell has notably fallen out of the first round. Previously ranked as the 15th pick in Jeremiah's initial mock draft, Howell's exclusion from the first round in the latest update has raised eyebrows. Despite being one of Jeremiah's favorite players due to his impressive play speed and production, Howell's sub-31-inch arm length is cited as a potential concern for NFL teams. Howell, who transferred to Texas A&M in 2024, has had a standout college career with 27 sacks and 35.5 tackles for loss, earning him a unanimous All-American title in his final season.
Why It's Important?
The omission of Cashius Howell from the first round
of a prominent mock draft could impact his draft stock and future career prospects. As mock drafts often influence perceptions within the NFL community, Howell's drop may signal concerns about his physical attributes despite his on-field performance. This development could affect Texas A&M's reputation for producing NFL-ready talent, as Howell was expected to be a high-profile draft pick. The situation highlights the ongoing debate in the NFL about the importance of physical measurements versus actual performance, potentially affecting how teams evaluate future prospects.
What's Next?
Cashius Howell's next opportunity to impress NFL scouts will be at the 2026 NFL Combine, where he can showcase his skills and potentially alleviate concerns about his arm length. A strong performance could help him regain his status as a first-round prospect. Meanwhile, NFL teams will continue to assess Howell's potential as either a designated pass rusher or an every-down edge player. The outcome of these evaluations will determine Howell's draft position and could influence the strategies of teams looking to bolster their defensive lines.
