Wisconsin tight end Lance Mason declared for the 2026 NFL draft on Sunday.
Mason concluded his fourth collegiate season in 2025. He started his career at Missouri State in 2022, starting 10 games as a true freshman and tallying 12 receptions, 95 receiving yards and one touchdown. He delivered similar production as a sophomore in 2023, before a breakout junior campaign that included 34 receptions, 590 receiving yards and six scores.
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Mason then transferred to Wisconsin last spring, filling a tight end position that became vacant after winter transfer addition Tanner Koziol left for Houston. The Missouri State transfer performed well in nine games of action, finishing with 30 receptions, 398 yards and four touchdowns. His yardage and touchdown totals both led the team.
“I want to thank all my coaches from Rockwall-Heath High School, Missouri State and Wisconsin who developed me into the player and person I am today,” Mason wrote on X. “I am incredibly grateful to my family and friends for their continuous support throughout this journey. Lastly, thank you to all my teammates for the lifelong friendships and memories. My college career has come to an end, but with great excitement, I am happy to announce that I will be declaring for the 2026 NFL draft.”
The veteran tight end reportedly filed an injunction for an extra year of eligibility after the 2025 season concluded. However, this announcement confirms his departure for the NFL. Wisconsin can now add tight end to its list of transfer needs, with the portal set to officially open on Jan. 2.
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This article originally appeared on Badgers Wire: Wisconsin football tight end Lance Mason declares 2026 NFL draft
