One of the FCS’s best defensive players is officially off the board and he is also the first player from the subdivision to go after a historically long wait until the fourth round (the first time in the FCS era that none of its prospects were taken in Rounds 1-3). Southeastern Louisiana defensive tackle Kaleb Proctor is headed to Arizona to join the Cardinals defense. He was taken early on Saturday with the 104th overall pick, making him the first former Lion to be drafted since Harlan Miller in 2016.
An invitee to the NFL Combine earlier this year, Proctor showed off his tremendous speed and agility for pro scouts and did his draft stock wonders. Concerns about his size and build have been combated with a great amount of excitement over his ability to quickly jump off the snap. Proctor ranked fourth best in his position group at the Combine with an overall athleticism score of 81.
Proctor was dynamite on the Lions defensive line last year winning the Southland’s Defensive Player of the Year honor. He authored nine sacks and 13 tackles for loss in 2025 as well as 43 total tackles and a pair of defended passes. He wrapped up his college career with 26 tackles behind the line of scrimmage thanks in large part to his freakish speed.
Proctor will be fighting for a spot on a defensive front that features guys like Calais Campbell and Josh Sweat. He will need to impress in both training camp and the preseason to secure a spot on the final roster.
