Arizona State Sun Devils wide receiver Jordyn Tyson could be the first pass-catcher selected in the 2026 NFL Draft on Thursday night in Pittsburgh.
Tyson and Ohio State’s Carnell Tate have spent the entire pre-draft process in the WR1 conversation, and both should be taken early in the first round. On the morning of the draft, former Pittsburgh Steelers star and current Arizona State WRs coach Hines Ward had a strong message for Tyson on social media.
“When they listen, learn, and apply… this is what it looks like. Proud of you JT,” Ward wrote with a video of Tyson’s highlights.
Arizona State head coach Kenny Dillingham also posted the video with a few handshake emojis.
— Coach Dillingham (@KennyDillingham) April 23, 2026
Tyson, who began his career at Colorado, had 1,101 yards with 10 scores in 2024 at Arizona State and another 711 yards and eight touchdowns in 2025 despite battling injuries.
New York Giants running back Cam Skattebo, Tyson’s former Arizona State teammate, also made a plea previously, hoping that the Giants select Tyson.
Tyson has gained a lot of steam as the potential WR1 recently, and CBS Sports’ insider Jonathan Jones echoed that sentiment on the morning of the first round.
“The more I talk to folks and the closer it gets to the draft, the more it seems Arizona State’s Jordyn Tyson will be the first receiver selected tonight. Sources at multiple teams have told me he’s the most talented receiver in the draft,” Jones wrote.
Even if Tyson isn’t the first WR taken, it would be a massive surprise if he isn’t selected in the first round on Thursday night.
