Arizona has not had a defensive back taken in the NFL Draft since 2018. There’s a good chance that drought will end this spring.
Ex-Wildcats Dalton Johnson, Genesis Smith and Treydan Stukes are among the 319 prospects formally invited to compete in the NFL Scouting Combine, set for Feb. 23-March 2 in Indianapolis. Getting a combine invite is usually a precursor to being drafted, with the 2026 NFL Draft set for April 23-25 in Pittsburgh.
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Johnson, Smith and Stukes anchored a stellar secondary for Arizona in 2025, one that ranked 2nd in FBS in interceptions and 7th in defending the pass. Johnson was the UA leader in tackles, with 97, while Smith (77) and Stukes (52) were also in the top five.
The trio combined to start 86 games for the Wildcats between 2020-25.
Pro Football Focus ranks Smith as the No. 100 player on its 2026 draft board, with Stukes at No. 104.
The last UA defensive back drafted was Dane Cruikshank, who was selected in 5th round by the Tennessee Titans in 2018.
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