Lee Hunter 2026 NFL Draft: scouting report for Texas Tech, DT

Cons of Lee Hunter

• Though he moves great for someone his size, he gets off to a slower start and lacks the explosive first step that coaches desire
• Has a tendency to give up on a play if he isn't able to win his rep quickly
• Some question if he has the stamina to be a three-down player in the NFL at his current size

Background

Hunter is a former four-star recruit who started his college career at Auburn in 2021 but redshirted. He then transferred to Central Florida, better known as UCF, where he was a three-year starter from 2022 to 2024. His play at UCF earned him the right to transfer to Texas Tech for his final season, where he showed he can also be a threat as a pass rusher, in addition to being a massive gap filler in the run game. 

Player Evaluation

Hunter left it all out on the field in Texas Tech’s season finale in the team's loss to Oregon in the College Football Playoffs. He was flying all over the field making plays. Many have questioned his motor on film, which made that showing so important. You don't see nose tackles move the way Hunter does once he gets into the backfield; it's as if he finds a second gear. Once he gets into an NFL locker room, I think we will see his body transform a bit, allowing him to play a bit lighter while still maintaining the power he plays with. I believe his best football is ahead of him, and he has the potential to be a true game wrecker at the pro level. 

A to Z Rankings

A to Z Big Board Ranking: 122, DT6

A to Z Draft Grade: 6.44

Draft projection: Early day three

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