The Kansas football program experienced one of its most successful NFL drafts in recent memory this past week. Offensive lineman Dominick Puni was selected by the San Francisco 49ers, the Super Bowl runners-up, marking the highest draft pick for a former Jayhawk since Aqib Talib in 2008. Additionally, EDGE player Austin Booker was drafted early in the fifth round by the Chicago Bears. Both players have the potential to carve out significant roles in the NFL in the coming years.
Although KU received considerable recognition during the draft, several Jayhawks found success after the draft by securing undrafted free-agent deals. While some players weren’t as fortunate, they still received invitations to participate in NFL Rookie Minicamps. Rich Miller and Mason Fairchild were announced as attendees, along with four other Jayhawks.
Six former Kansas football players are set to participate in rookie minicamps. The first player reported to attend a minicamp is cornerback Kwinton Lassiter, who will try out for the Colts in Indianapolis. He is the son of Kwamie Lassiter and the brother of Kwamie II, both of whom competed at KU during their collegiate careers. Kwinton recorded 20 total tackles, two interceptions, and a forced fumble in a reserve role in 2023.
Fellow cornerback Kalon Gervin will attend minicamps for both the Green Bay Packers and the New York Giants. The Michigan State transfer provided defensive back depth at Kansas alongside Lassiter. Gervin impressed with a 4.45-second 40-yard dash at the inaugural Big 12 Pro Days and could potentially excel as a special teams player.
Running back Dylan McDuffie will accompany Gervin at both the Packers’ and Giants’ minicamps this week. McDuffie played six years of college football before transferring to Kansas for his final campaign. As the third-string RB for the Jayhawks, he ran for 253 yards and four touchdowns, showcasing a bruising running style that should attract attention from teams.
Lastly, defensive tackle Devin Phillips will attend minicamps for the Buffalo Bills and the Kansas City Chiefs. After spending five seasons at Colorado State, Phillips spent one year at KU, where he emerged as the top nose tackle on the defensive line and played a pivotal role in anchoring the run defense.
