Unveiling Tomorrow's NFL Stars: TCU's Post-Draft Journey
From Collegiate Fields to Professional Dreams: The Undrafted Signings
After the conclusion of the 2026 NFL Draft on Saturday afternoon, a cohort of promising athletes from Texas Christian University's Horned Frogs football program inked undrafted free-agent deals. These players, including DJ Rogers (headed to the Cowboys), Devean Deal (joining the Seahawks), Chase Curtis (with the Jets), Channing Canada (to the Patriots), Joseph Manjack IV (off to the Broncos), Kevorian Barnes (signed by the Giants), and Trent Battle (joining the Falcons), are now set to vie for positions on their respective NFL teams. This marks a pivotal moment in their careers, as they transition from collegiate stars to aspiring professional athletes. Notably, three of their teammates, Bud Clark, Kaleb Elarms-Orr, and Namdi Obiazor, were drafted, underscoring the talent pool at TCU.
Highlighting Key Contributors: Rogers, Deal, and Curtis's Collegiate Impact
Among those earning post-draft opportunities, tight end DJ Rogers stood out with a career-high season in 2025, recording 34 receptions for 319 yards and two touchdowns. Defensive standout Devean Deal, whose brother Markis currently plays for the Horned Frogs, amassed an impressive 99 tackles, 18 tackles for loss, nine sacks, five pass breakups, one fumble recovery, and a forced fumble over his 26 games at TCU. Wide receiver Chase Curtis, a six-season veteran for the Horned Frogs, contributed significantly with 36 catches for 413 yards and four scores across 40 appearances.
Versatile Talents: Canada, Manjack IV, Barnes, and Battle's Contributions
The defensive backfield saw Channing Canada making his mark over three seasons at TCU, tallying 81 tackles, five pass breakups, and two interceptions in 38 games. Joseph Manjack IV, a transfer from Houston, quickly became a key offensive weapon, securing 44 catches for 579 yards and three touchdowns in his single season as a Horned Frog. Running back Kevorian Barnes, who joined from UTSA, showcased his rushing prowess with 443 yards and three touchdowns on 96 carries in his sole year at TCU. Finally, Trent Battle demonstrated his all-around ability during his five seasons with the Horned Frogs, rushing for 598 yards and eight touchdowns on 127 carries, alongside 27 receptions for 253 yards, in 48 games played.