Surging Arizona DB Looks To Be Steal of the NFL Draft

Treydan Stukes is expected to hear his name called on NFL Draft weekend this year and represent Arizona. The 6-foot-2 corner has been rising on draft boards and is one of the most exciting prospects on Day 2.

Stukes played six seasons in Tucson, but his last year with the Wildcats was by far his best, giving him a huge boost going into NFL workouts. He had four interceptions, six pass deflections, and a sack in his 2025 season. Stukes was named to the AP third-team All-American team thanks to his impressive senior season.

Expected To Ne a Day 2 Pick

Stukes showed out at the combine, as he ran a 4.33 in the 40-yard dash, which is very good for a defensive back. He has a great build for his position, with his speed, height, and ball skills. Stukes could potentially be one of the biggest steals of the draft.

Stukes is currently projected to go late second round to early third round. The New Orleans Saints, Denver Broncos, and Miami Dolphins are all teams rumored to be interested in Stukes. The Broncos would be a great landing spot for him, so that he could learn from arguably the best cornerback in the NFL, Patrick Surtain.

Versatility Stands Out

Stukes played corner for the Wildcats, but his athleticism and frame could allow him to play other positions. He talked about moving throughout the secondary during pro drills.

“I’ve been all over the place, to be honest. Some teams are thinking outside, a lot of teams thinking nickel, safety,” Stukes said.

So, it sounds like teams are recognizing Stukes' diversity, which is one of the biggest reasons his draft stock has risen. It will be interesting to see where he plays, depending on which team drafts him.

Stukes Made “Business Decision”

The Wildcats had one of their best seasons of the past decade last season, as they went 9-4 and made the Holiday Bowl. It was just head coach Brent Brennan’s second season with the program, and it was a great bounce back from his first season, when he went 4-8.

There was one thing missing in the Wildcats’ bowl game last season, and that was their star defensive back, Stukes. He decided to opt out and caught a lot of flak for that. Stukes spoke on his decision not to play in the Holiday Bowl.

zon — Patrick Breen/The Republic / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

“For me, it was definitely a difficult decision. Of course, I wanted to be there for my brothers and end the season the right way," Stukes said. "At the end of the day, it’s somewhat of a business decision, and I still love Arizona, I still love all the fans.”

Stukes hopes the business decision pays off in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, during the weekend of April 23-25.