The 2025 NFL Draft will be remembered for many reasons, but none more than the Texas Longhorns’ historic performance. Texas dominated the event with an astonishing 13 players selected across all seven rounds, the most of any school this year. It marked a major statement for a program that has been steadily rebuilding under head coach Steve Sarkisian. This draft haul not only highlighted the Longhorns’ talent-rich roster but also underscored the strength of their player development system.
Leading the charge was star offensive tackle Kelvin Banks Jr., who was selected 6th overall by the Tennessee Titans. Banks, a consensus All-American, had been projected as a top-10 pick throughout the process and lived up to the hype. His selection set the tone early for what would become a special night for Texas. Scouts raved about his blend of size, footwork, and nastiness — traits that made him one of the safest picks in the entire draft.
The Longhorns also saw standout quarterback Quinn Ewers taken in the first round, going 15th overall to the Denver Broncos. After a strong final season in Austin, Ewers impressed NFL decision-makers with his arm strength, poise, and leadership. Many analysts pointed to his remarkable improvement under Sarkisian’s tutelage as a major reason for his first-round rise. Texas hadn’t had a quarterback drafted this high since Vince Young in 2006.
Beyond the first round, Texas continued to make noise. Wide receiver Xavier Worthy, famous for his record-setting 40-yard dash at the NFL Combine, was selected early in the second round by the New Orleans Saints. His game-breaking speed and ability to stretch defenses made him a hot commodity. The Longhorns also celebrated the selections of defensive tackle T’Vondre Sweat and linebacker Jaylan Ford in the second and third rounds, respectively, both seen as plug-and-play prospects.
Running back Jonathon Brooks, despite recovering from a late-season injury, heard his name called in the third round by the Chicago Bears. NFL teams loved his vision, balance, and receiving ability out of the backfield. His selection further emphasized the depth and versatility of the 2024 Texas roster. Defensive back Jahdae Barron joined him as a mid-round pick, headed to the Pittsburgh Steelers to bolster their secondary.
In the later rounds, offensive guard Hayden Conner and defensive end Barryn Sorrell found homes, further illustrating the Longhorns’ balance across offense and defense. Tight end Ja’Tavion Sanders, who surprisingly slipped into the fourth round, was seen as a major steal for the Cincinnati Bengals. Many draft experts labeled Sanders as one of the best receiving tight ends in the class, and his drop was viewed as a reflection of positional value rather than talent.
Special teams weren’t left out either. Texas kicker Bert Auburn was selected in the sixth round by the Detroit Lions, capping off a phenomenal final season where he nailed multiple clutch kicks. His consistency and calm under pressure made him the first specialist off the board. Auburn’s selection also marked a rare occurrence for Texas, which hadn’t seen a kicker drafted since Justin Tucker — who, ironically, also went undrafted initially.
What made Texas’ dominance even more impressive was the diversity of positions represented. The Longhorns had players drafted at nearly every major position group, highlighting the overall quality of their roster. From offensive linemen to defensive backs, wide receivers to linebackers, Texas produced elite NFL-ready talent across the board. It sent a powerful message to recruits that Austin has become a premier launchpad for NFL careers once again.
This massive draft success is already paying dividends for Texas on the recruiting trail. Early reports suggest that multiple five-star prospects in the 2026 class are giving serious looks to the Longhorns after witnessing this year’s draft. Sarkisian and his staff have emphasized the “development to draft day” pipeline in their pitches, and now they have undeniable proof to back up their claims.
Ultimately, the 2025 NFL Draft served as a crowning achievement for Texas’ long climb back into college football’s elite. With 13 players selected, the Longhorns didn’t just dominate — they made history. And if the foundation laid by this class is any indication, Texas’ time at the top might just be getting started.
Leave a Reply