In 2023, three Conference USA prospects were selected in the NFL Draft. Western Kentucky defensive lineman Brodric Martin was the first CUSA player selected, going in the third round to the Lions.
Now looking forward to next year, here are the top Conference USA prospects who could be chosen in the 2024 NFL Draft.
Place College Football Wagers at BetMGM!
NFL Draft Conference USA Big Board
Rk | Player | Pos. | Team |
1 | Malachi Corley | WR | Western Kentucky |
2 | Austin Reed | QB | Western Kentucky |
3 | Marley Cook | DL | Middle Tennessee |
4 | Hank Bachmeier | QB | Louisiana Tech |
5 | X’Zauvea Gadlin | OL | Liberty |
6 | Donovan Manuel | LB | FIU |
7 | Kavian Gaither | LB | Sam Houston |
8 | Teldrick Ross | DB | Middle Tennessee |
9 | Zaylin Wood | DL | Middle Tennessee |
10 | Ife Adeyi | WR | Sam Houston |
NFL Draft: Conference USA Top Prospects
1. Malachi Corley, WR, WKU
Corley, a 5-foot-11, 210-pound junior, was one of the best G5 wide receivers heading into the season. He was an All-CUSA first-team selection as he led the league and was fourth in the FBS with 1,293 yards on 101 receptions and scored 11 touchdowns. He also led all Group of Five wide receivers with 975 yards after catch. In WKU’s high-flying passing game, Corley has thrived.
2. Austin Reed, QB, WKU
Reed was the FBS passing yards leader with 4,744 last season and doesn’t appear to be slowing down. The 6-2, 220-pound redshirt senior also threw for 40 touchdowns with 11 interceptions while earning CUSA second-team honors. If he continues to be that productive, NFL teams should consider drafting him.
3. Marley Cook, DL, Middle Tennessee
Cook could be the centerpiece for a stout run defense in the NFL. The 6-2, 298-pound redshirt junior was top 10 in 2022 among interior defensive linemen with 49 quarterback pressures, 35 hurries, and seven sacks.
4. Hank Bachmeier, QB, Louisiana Tech
Bachmeier was a highly-recruited high school player and has seen success at Boise State and since his transfer to Louisiana Tech. His accuracy and decision making are traits NFL scouts will have to consider.
5. X’Zauvea Gadlin, OL, Liberty
Gadlin transferred to Liberty from Tulsa before the 2022 season. Last year, the 6-4, 320-pound senior allowed 17 quarterback pressures and four sacks while playing at right tackle. He’s now lining up at right guard this season but has played at least 50 snaps at every offensive line position over the past three years. His size and versatility make him an intriguing prospect.