Alabama's Josh Cuevas Aims to Boost NFL Draft Stock After Injury Recovery

The tight end is looking to impress teams at the NFL Scouting Combine after missing the end of his senior season.

Published on Feb. 26, 2026

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Josh Cuevas, a tight end from the University of Alabama, is hoping to boost his NFL draft stock at the Scouting Combine this week after recovering from a foot injury that caused him to miss the final two games of the regular season and the SEC Championship. Despite the setback, Cuevas was able to return for Alabama's playoff run, and he is now focused on proving to NFL teams that he is fully healthy and ready to contribute at the next level.

Why it matters

Cuevas' injury recovery and ability to return for the playoffs demonstrates his resilience and determination, which are valuable traits for NFL teams looking to draft players who can overcome adversity. Additionally, as a tight end with a unique college career path, Cuevas has the opportunity to showcase his versatility and leadership skills to NFL scouts.

The details

Cuevas suffered a foot injury that required him to miss the final two games of Alabama's regular season and the SEC Championship. However, a surgeon informed him that the injury would not require surgery, allowing Cuevas to return for the Crimson Tide's two-game playoff run. Cuevas is now focused on turning his recovery work into a boost to his NFL draft stock, and he will meet with all NFL teams and participate in workouts at the Combine.

  • Cuevas suffered the foot injury in late November 2025.
  • Cuevas was able to return for Alabama's playoff run in December 2025.
  • Cuevas is participating in the NFL Scouting Combine in February 2026.

The players

Josh Cuevas

A tight end from the University of Alabama who is looking to boost his NFL draft stock after recovering from a foot injury that caused him to miss the end of his senior season.

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What they’re saying

“It was devastating. You kind of go into your senior year having all these goals and aspirations for yourself, and reaching a certain yardage, a certain amount of catches, touchdowns, things like that.”

— Josh Cuevas (si.com)

“As soon as there was a chance that it was non-surgical, and there was a chance I could come back and play if we made a deep run in the playoffs, we ran with that chance. It was emotional at first, just because I felt like I had so much more left in the tank and for the state of Alabama and the school, the University. But once I found that glimpse of hope, like we just completely ran with it.”

— Josh Cuevas (si.com)

“It hasn't affected me much. You just kind of make them (NFL teams) aware that this is what happened. .... You just kind of reassure them, like you're gonna do everything in the Combine, and you have no limitations, no hindrances, kind of going into this this week, and that just kind of makes me feel a lot better.”

— Josh Cuevas (si.com)

What’s next

Cuevas will have the opportunity to showcase his skills and prove his health to NFL teams during on-field drills at the NFL Scouting Combine on Friday.

The takeaway

Cuevas' resilience and determination to return from injury for Alabama's playoff run demonstrate the valuable traits he can bring to an NFL team. His unique college career path and ability to perform on the biggest stages will make him an appealing prospect for teams looking to add depth and leadership to their tight end position.