From Cowboy to Sooner to Falcon: Daniels’ Draft Journey
Kendal Daniels, a one-year Sooner standout and former Oklahoma State safety, was selected by the Atlanta Falcons in the fourth round of the 2026 NFL Draft (134th overall). Daniels joins three other Oklahoma defenders drafted so far—R Mason Thomas, Febechi Nwaiwu, and Gracen Halton—bringing Brent Venables’ total to 14 picks in his tenure. Known as a “cheetah” linebacker/safety hybrid, Daniels racked up 53 tackles, nine for loss, and a key fumble recovery against Alabama in 2026. Despite concerns about instincts and fundamentals, analysts praise his length and athleticism, projecting he’ll thrive in the NFL under a similar role to his college position.
In true “fish out of water” fashion, Daniels’s transition from Cowboy safety to Sooner cheetah to Atlanta Falcon reads like a wild nature documentary—complete with scouting reports calling him “outstanding” and “raw.” One can almost picture Brent Venables whispering sweet nothings about linebacker instincts while NFL scouts scramble to teach trigger discipline over cocktails. Now that Daniels has landed in Georgia, prepare for Falcons fans to herald him as the next defensive savior, only to realize they’ve drafted a speedster who thinks blitzing is an Olympic sport. Enjoy the ride, Atlanta—it’s going to be one hybrid whirlwind.
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