Jayden Williams headed to the NFL as Cardinals select Ole Miss lineman in seventh round

OXFORD, Miss. — Ole Miss added another name to its growing list of NFL talent Saturday, as offensive lineman Jayden Williams was selected by the Arizona Cardinals in the seventh round of the 2026 NFL Draft with the No. 217 overall pick. He was the first pick of the seventh.

Former offensive lineman Jayden Williams has been drafted to the Arizona Cardinals. Congrats to Jayden! Hotty Toddy! pic.twitter.com/YlzR57DnQV

— The Rebel Walk (@TheRebelWalk) April 25, 2026

Williams’ selection continues a steady pipeline from Oxford to the professional ranks, reinforcing the program’s reputation for developing talent in the trenches.

A versatile and experienced presence along the offensive line, Williams carved out a key role for the Rebels during his time in Oxford, showcasing the kind of physicality and toughness required to compete in the SEC. Whether lining up at tackle or providing depth across the front, he brought consistency and reliability to an offense that leaned heavily on protection and tempo.

He started all 15 games for Ole Miss at right tackle last year. According to Pro Football Focus, he allowed just two sacks during that span and was flagged just once. He can also play left tackle, making 19 starts in 30 games played from 2022-24.

Over the course of his career, Williams steadily improved both technically and physically, refining his footwork, strength, and awareness against some of the top defensive talent in college football. That growth ultimately put him on the radar of NFL scouts looking for linemen with experience, versatility, and the ability to contribute in multiple roles.

For the Cardinals, Williams represents a value pick late in the draft—a player with SEC experience who has faced elite competition and understands what it takes to compete at a high level.

At 6-foot-5-plus with a strong frame and positional flexibility, he fits the mold of a developmental lineman who can compete for depth early while continuing to refine his game at the next level. His ability to adapt and play multiple spots along the line could prove valuable as he works to earn a roster spot.

Williams now joins an Ole Miss lineage that continues to grow under the program’s recent success, as the Rebels build not only winning seasons, but NFL-ready talent.

For Williams, the next chapter begins in Arizona. And for Ole Miss, it’s another reminder that the path from Oxford to Sundays remains as strong as ever.

Stay tuned to The Rebel Walk for all your Ole Miss draft coverage!