Mel Kiper Ranks Jadan Baugh High on Draft Board
Gainesville standout Jadan Baugh earns top-running back status on Mel Kiper's latest NFL draft list.
Updated on Oct. 15, 2026 in Football
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Mel Kiper has ranked Florida running back Jadan Baugh as the No. 14 prospect on his current top 25 NFL Draft big board. The analyst specifically highlights Baugh as the top running back available for the 2027 draft class.
Why it matters
Baugh has established himself as a premier collegiate offensive threat through a combination of power, shiftiness, and breakaway speed. His high draft ranking reflects his consistent production and reliability on the field over his college career.
Baugh has recorded 673 rushing yards and seven touchdowns across six games this season, including 304 yards against Auburn and Ole Miss. He stands 6'1 and 225 pounds while maintaining a clean record with no fumbles since 2024.
The players
Jadan Baugh
He is a standout running back for the Florida Gators in Gainesville.
Mel Kiper
He is a prominent NFL draft analyst who evaluates collegiate prospects for ESPN.
The details
Standing 6'1 and weighing 225 pounds, Baugh utilizes elite field vision and contact balance to break tackles and evade defenders. He has also contributed as a receiver, recording four catches for 33 yards and one touchdown in addition to his rushing output.
Timeline
Jadan Baugh committed his last fumble in 2024.
The NFL Draft is scheduled for April 2027.
Baugh is expected to play against the Texas Longhorns this week.
Season Trajectory
Baugh's high draft positioning serves as a critical indicator for his professional transition following his college career in Gainesville. This recognition elevates his status as a key prospect to watch throughout the remainder of the season leading into the draft.
Baugh's current trajectory suggests he will be a primary focus for NFL scouts throughout the remainder of the college season. His consistent production levels indicate he remains a central figure for fantasy and draft evaluators tracking top-tier rushing talent.
The takeaway
Baugh's success highlights the importance of consistent field vision and physical durability for collegiate running backs. Readers should watch for his performance against the Texas Longhorns to see if he maintains his high efficiency on the ground.
Further reading
For more on the latest collegiate developments, read the Football section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Sports Illustrated.
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