Two Jayhawks have the potential to become the highest NFL Draft picks in Kansas football since Aqib Talib, marking a milestone in Leipold’s career.
The 2024 NFL Draft commences on Thursday, offering an opportunity for two standout Kansas football players to potentially be drafted by the end of day two.
Offensive lineman Dominick Puni and defensive end Austin Booker are both anticipated to be selected in the third round, with Puni having potential to be picked even earlier.
Puni’s journey is particularly notable. Following his transfer from Division II Central Missouri in 2022, Puni swiftly secured a starting position on the Kansas offensive line, contributing to one of the nation’s top units in terms of sacks allowed. His efforts were instrumental in facilitating the impressive rushing attack led by Devin Neal and Daniel Hishaw.
Having started all 12 regular-season games in the stellar 2023-24 season and maintaining a flawless record in pass protection across 743 total snaps, Puni earned the distinction of being named First Team All-Big 12.
Booker also made significant strides during the previous season. Transitioning from a limited role at Minnesota, he emerged as a force to be reckoned with, tallying eight sacks — the most since Dorance Armstrong Jr. in 2016 — and receiving accolades such as First Team All-Big 12 and Big 12 Defensive Newcomer of the Year.
According to NFL Draft expert Mel Kiper Jr., Puni is ranked as the fifth-best guard and the No. 82 overall prospect in this year’s draft, while Booker is positioned as the ninth-best outside linebacker and the No. 107 overall prospect.
Puni’s versatility as both a guard and tackle, as noted by various sources, enhances his appeal to prospective teams, potentially boosting his draft stock on Friday.
Pro Football Focus’ mock draft forecasts Booker to be selected at Pick No. 68 by the New England Patriots, while Puni is anticipated to be chosen at Pick No. 90 by the New York Jets.
In ESPN analyst Jordan Reid’s final mock draft, Puni is projected to go at Pick No. 64 to the Kansas City Chiefs, with Booker expected to be picked at No. 71 by the Arizona Cardinals.
Should these predictions materialize, Puni and Booker could become the highest-drafted Kansas football players since Aqib Talib in 2008, marking a significant milestone for the program.
Regardless of draft outcomes, Puni, Booker, and all Jayhawks vying for selection this weekend will have the unwavering support of the Kansas fanbase as they embark on their professional journeys.
