The NFL Combine is in full swing, and the Texas Longhorns have already made a strong impression. Several former Longhorns have displayed their athleticism and skills in one of the most competitive pre-draft showcases. While pro days and postseason all-star games like the Senior Bowl provide important evaluation opportunities, the combine remains the most publicized and widely scrutinized part of the draft process.
Texas players are using the event to boost their draft stock, hoping to make a lasting impact on NFL scouts and executives. As the early days of the combine unfolded, a few key storylines emerged. Among them was the growing anticipation surrounding former Texas quarterback Quinn Ewers and how he would perform in drills, testing his ability to solidify or improve his draft position.
Another major point of interest centered around the Longhorns’ speedsters. With Xavier Worthy setting a blazing 40-yard dash record in a previous combine, there was speculation about whether any recent Texas departures could challenge his mark. The excitement surrounding the Longhorns at the combine continues to build as their prospects showcase their talents on one of football’s biggest pre-draft stages.
Here are five key takeaways from the early action at the NFL Combine, highlighting standout performances, notable surprises, and how Texas Longhorns prospects are shaping their draft stock.
1. Quinn Ewers had a good day throwing.
Quinn Ewers didn’t fully address concerns about his deep ball accuracy during his combine performance. While he connected on several downfield passes, many required his receivers to adjust their stride. However, he impressed with his short and intermediate accuracy, as well as his smooth and effortless throwing motion.
2. Quinn highlighted his strengths.
Quinn Ewers’ NFL Combine interviews highlighted the resilience he brings to a team. He emphasized the importance of mental toughness, stating, “You have to have that mental toughness, and that’s where I think an edge over most people.”
A defining example of this came during Texas’ College Football Quarterfinal matchup against Arizona State, where the focus was on the team’s 4th-and-13 situation in overtime. However, the real story was Ewers’ response—a clutch 28-yard touchdown pass to Matthew Golden that kept Texas’ season alive.
His ability to thrive under pressure reflects the intangibles that make him a strong NFL prospect. Over the past two seasons, Ewers’ toughness and leadership helped Texas secure 25 wins, proving his value as a quarterback who can elevate his team in critical moments.
3. Texas still has speed at receiver.
Texas may not have had the record-breaking speed of 2024 departures Xavier Worthy and Adonai Mitchell, but the Longhorns still made an impact in the 40-yard dash.
Wide receiver Matthew Golden led the way, posting an impressive 4.3-second time, showcasing his speed and explosiveness.
His performance will likely boost his draft stock, proving he has the athleticism to be a playmaker at the next level.
4. Bond runs a 4.39.
Texas wide receiver Isaiah Bond aimed to challenge Xavier Worthy’s 40-yard dash record of 4.21 seconds but came up short.
Despite that, he still impressed with a solid 4.39-second time, demonstrating his speed and athleticism.
While he didn’t set a new record, Bond’s performance showcased his potential, and he will look to unlock even more speed at the NFL level.
5. Jahdae Barron stock could be rising.
Jahdae Barron, the 2024 Thorpe Award winner as the nation’s top defensive back, showcased his versatility throughout his college career, excelling at both nickel corner and outside coverage.
His senior season was highly productive, tallying 67 tackles, five interceptions, and 11 pass breakups, proving his ability to make plays all over the field.
If there were any doubts about his NFL potential, Barron may have put them to rest on Friday with an impressive 4.39-second 40-yard dash, solidifying his athleticism and draft stock.
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