A Prospect to Watch
David Pollack, a former college football great, recently singled out Rutgers wide receiver KJ Duff as a standout name for the upcoming 2026 season, emphasizing his blend of size, route running and playmaking ability.
Pollack pointed out that Duff’s 22 contested catches from the previous year illustrate a rare combination of toughness and hands, while also noting that half of his receptions last season resulted in a first down or a touchdown.
The 2025 campaign saw Duff compile 60 catches for 1,084 yards and seven scores, placing him among the Big Ten’s elite pass catchers and catching the eye of scouts who project him as a first‑round selection in next year’s draft.
Originally recruited as a tight end, Duff’s transition to a full‑time wide receiver at Rutgers has unlocked a skill set that makes him the conference’s top receiver and a potential early‑round draft pick.
His rise comes amid a competitive landscape that includes standout performers like Makai Lemon and Jeremiah Smith, both of whom also surpassed the 1,000‑yard mark, underscoring the depth of talent in the Big Ten.