Missouri's Kevin Coleman Jr. Embraces Versatility as NFL Draft Prospect

The wide receiver has played for four different colleges in four years, developing a diverse skill set along the way.

Published on Feb. 27, 2026

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In his four-year collegiate career, Missouri wide receiver Kevin Coleman Jr. played for four different schools, including Jackson State, where he outproduced teammate Travis Hunter. Coleman believes his experience learning multiple offenses and earning the trust of new teammates has prepared him well for the NFL. He is known for his shiftiness and ability to make plays after the catch, as well as his willingness to be a physical blocker. Coleman credits Missouri coaches Eli Drinkwitz and Jacob Peeler for helping him develop both on and off the field.

Why it matters

Coleman's unique path to the NFL, with stops at four different colleges, demonstrates his adaptability and work ethic. As a versatile receiver who can contribute in the passing game and as a blocker, he could be an attractive option for NFL teams looking to add a dynamic playmaker to their offense.

The details

In 2025, Coleman led Missouri with 732 receiving yards on 66 catches, with 375 of those yards coming after the catch. He also returned 15 punts for 189 yards and a touchdown, showcasing his electric playmaking ability. Coleman credits Missouri's "no block, no rock" mentality for helping him embrace the physical aspects of the game as a run blocker.

  • Coleman played for four different colleges in four years, starting at Jackson State in 2022.
  • In 2025, Coleman had his best collegiate season, leading Missouri in receiving yards and making an impact as a punt returner.

The players

Kevin Coleman Jr.

A wide receiver who played for four different colleges in four years, including Jackson State and Missouri, where he developed a diverse skill set and proved his adaptability.

Eli Drinkwitz

The head coach at Missouri, who Coleman credits for helping him develop both on and off the field.

Jacob Peeler

The wide receivers coach at Missouri, who Coleman says helped him become a better player and man through his "no block, no rock" mentality.

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What they’re saying

“I'm electric. I'm a 'dawg.' Don't let this size fool you, with the ball in my hands, anything can happen from catching a short pass to a deep pass, anything can happen, including on special teams.”

— Kevin Coleman Jr., Wide receiver (SI.com)

“Those two guys are great guys. Coach Peeler, great guy, his resume speaks for himself. Definitely grow a lot with him, on and off the field. Helped me become a better man. Coach Drink, energetic guy. Man, a guy I would love to play for for many more years. I just love the type of coach he is. He loves talking smack. ... He's a guy that just you want to play for and do anything for.”

— Kevin Coleman Jr., Wide receiver (SI.com)

What’s next

Coleman will look to impress NFL teams at the upcoming draft, where he hopes to be selected and continue his football journey at the professional level.

The takeaway

Kevin Coleman Jr.'s unique path to the NFL, with stops at four different colleges, has helped him develop a diverse skill set and the adaptability to succeed at the next level. His versatility as both a dynamic receiver and physical blocker, combined with his strong work ethic, make him an intriguing prospect for NFL teams seeking a playmaker.