The 2026 NFL Draft is approaching fast and league scouts are solidifying their big boards. Defensive End Keldric Faulk could be among the players who hear their name called early in Pittsburgh this week when the NFL welcomes its newest class of rookies.
USA TODAY Sports has all the latest on where the prospect out of Auburn may land.
Here's how USA TODAY's latest mock draft currently projects draft day will play out for the former college star.
An intriguing gem in need of some polish, Faulk can bolster an area of concern given the Bills wideout issue seems solved by the trade for DJ Moore. Faulk should be a three-down player who can kick inside on passing downs. He also has a reputation as being an excellent locker-room presence, always a huge bonus.
Faulk is one of the youngest prospects in the class and with impressive tools at 6-foot-6 and 285 pounds. He can align inside or outside for a defensive play-caller with strength and physicality at the point of attack. His recognition on running plays pairs well with a high motor as a pass rush. He already has a few pass-rush moves to deploy against blockers at the NFL level.
Faulk was a fan-favorite on the Plains from the get-go, and he went from glimmer of hope early in Hugh Freeze's tenure to high-producing sophomore in a hurry, with 11 tackles for loss and 7 sacks in 2024. He didn't log as much production last season, but for his physical specs and abilities on the field, he delivers some impressive intangibles as well.
The 2026 NFL Draft will take place between April 23-25 in Pittsburgh.
Time: 8 p.m. ET (Round 1); 7 p.m. ET (Rounds 2-3); Noon ET (Rounds 4-7)
Streaming: NFL+; ESPN Unlimited & Select; Fubo
Fans have several options to choose from to watch the 2026 NFL Draft. NFL Network and ESPN will have separate broadcasts, each providing a different analysis of each pick as it happens on draft night.
Cord-cutters can stream the different broadcasts on NFL+, the NFL's proprietary streaming service; ESPN Select or ESPN Unlimited, ESPN's streaming services; or cable alternative Fubo , which offers a free trial.
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Keldric Faulk 2026 NFL mock draft: latest prediction for Auburn Defensive End