Prospects outside the Power Four are often underrated in the NFL Draft. But Tanner Koziol, after dominating in the MAC, proved he can compete in a power conference, too.
Following a stellar few seasons at Ball State, Koziol transferred to Houston and continued his production. With outstanding size, reliable hands, and a proven ability to get open, he’s an intriguing prospect in the 2026 NFL Draft class.
While not a perfect player, Koziol’s skill set should fit in with an NFL team.
New Customer Offers at BetMGM
Bonus Bets Expire in 7 Days. One New Customer Offer Only. Add’l Terms
Where Did Tanner Koziol Go In The NFL Draft?
Koziol went to the Jacksonville Jaguars with the 164th overall pick, in the fifth round, of the 2026 NFL Draft.
Tanner Koziol’s 40 Time & NFL Combine Results
Koziol ran the 40 in 4.7 seconds at the NFL Combine.
He isn’t the fastest tight end in this year’s draft class, but he’s still a good athlete for his size. He had a vertical jump of 36.5 inches and a broad jump of 10 feet, 2 inches. Those were both among the top six TEs at this year’s combine.
At 6-foot-6.5 and 247 pounds, Koziol has a large catch radius and ability to win in contested situations.
Tanner Koziol Stats & Highlights
He wasn’t a highly touted recruit coming out of high school, entering college as a two-star prospect. Like many G6 standouts, he had to develop rather than arriving as a finished product.
His early college years reflected that. He steadily improved each season at Ball State, eventually emerging as one of the most productive tight ends in the country.
A HERO Sports G5 All-American at Ball State, Koziol caught 94 passes for 839 yards and eight touchdowns in 2024. A year before, he tallied 295 yards and three TDs on 34 receptions. In 2022, he recorded 373 yards and seven TDs on 35 catches.
Koziol then transferred to Houston, where he proved his production could translate in the Big 12.
Koziol’s production is arguably the strongest part of his draft profile. He was one of the most productive tight ends in college football over the past two seasons.
In 2025 at Houston, he chalked up 74 receptions for 727 yards and six touchdowns.
Where Is Tanner Koziol From?
Koziol is from Bloomingdale, Illinois, and played at Mount Vernon High School before beginning his college career at Ball State.
Tanner Koziol NFL Draft Profile & Comparison
My NFL comparison for Tanner Koziol is Tyler Eifert. Eifert was a big, strong target who was an asset in the red zone, and I think Koziol will be exactly that.
Across his career, Koziol demonstrated consistent growth. His catch rate improved significantly over time. While he wasn’t a major after-the-catch threat, he became a go-to option in key situations, particularly on short and intermediate routes.
Koziol projects best as a receiving tight end who can line up all over the field. His touchdown numbers show he’s particularly dangerous in the red zone, where his frame and vertical jump create issues for defenses.
Ultimately, Koziol is a tight end with upside. In the right system, he could evolve into a reliable pass-catching option.
