Kewan Lacy Out for Season: What's Next for Ole Miss RB?
Ole Miss star running back Kewan Lacy faces a critical career decision after season-ending injury.
1Season Ends Prematurely
Ole Miss running back Kewan Lacy will miss the remainder of the 2026 season due to persistent injuries. Lacy has struggled with health issues throughout the year, limiting his participation significantly. He has not played since the Rebels' loss to Texas on October 24, finishing his campaign with 388 yards and five touchdowns.
2Sharp Statistical Decline
Lacy’s 2026 performance marks a stark contrast to his breakout 2025 season. Last year, he led the country with 306 attempts, accumulating 1,567 yards and 24 touchdowns. This year, his limited availability and effectiveness have contributed to the Rebels' rushing attack dropping from 176.3 yards per game last season to 147.3 yards per game.
3NFL Draft Stock Impact
The injury-riddled season has severely damaged Lacy's NFL Draft prospects. CBS Sports analyst Mike Renner currently projects him as the No. 59 overall pick to the Minnesota Vikings. Renner explicitly noted that Lacy is currently nowhere near first-round consideration, a significant fall from his high expectations entering the 2026 college football season.
4Physical and Health Concerns
Beyond his recent injuries, NFL teams are reportedly questioning Lacy's physical profile. Standing 5-foot-11 and weighing 205 pounds, his size is a point of discussion for scouts. These concerns, combined with his inability to stay on the field this year, have created uncertainty regarding his long-term durability at the professional level of football.
5The Running Back Market
Lacy's situation is complicated by the broader NFL trend of devaluing running backs in the first round. Only three running backs have been selected in the first round over the last five drafts. Recent high-profile selections at the position have largely underperformed, leading teams to be increasingly cautious about investing significant draft capital.
6Dilemma for the Offseason
Lacy faces a difficult choice regarding his future. He must decide whether to enter the NFL Draft now or return to Ole Miss for the 2027 season. A return could potentially improve his draft stock if he plays a full, healthy season, but it also carries the risk of further injury and diminished value.
7Risks of Returning
Returning to college football for another year is not a guaranteed path to success. If Lacy were to suffer another injury in 2027, his draft projection could plummet to the late rounds. He must weigh the potential for moving up 20-30 spots against the immediate opportunity to secure a multi-year professional contract now.
8Critical Pre-Draft Process
There is no clear path forward for the talented running back as he enters the offseason. The upcoming pre-draft evaluation process will be vital for Lacy to determine his final decision. Whether he stays at Ole Miss, enters the transfer portal, or declares for the NFL, his next steps remain highly uncertain.
Original article: CBS Sports – Headlines — Kewan Lacy Out for Season: What's Next for Ole Miss RB?