Trio of Longhorns Projected in 2025 NFL Mock Draf
After a dry spell in the 2022 NFL draft, Texas Longhorns head coach Steve Sarkisian has revived the program’s ability to produce NFL-caliber talent. Notably, Bijan Robinson, Byron Murphy, and Xavier Worthy have all become first-round picks in recent seasons, with 13 other Longhorns drafted in that period.
Entering his fourth season, Sarkisian boasts his strongest roster yet, with Texas being considered a top-five team nationally and widely projected to make a second consecutive Playoff appearance. This resurgence is attributed to effective recruiting and strategic use of the transfer portal.
Despite losing key players from last year’s team, Texas still has several NFL prospects. ESPN’s Matt Miller projects three Longhorns as first-round picks in the 2025 NFL draft:
1. Kelvin Banks, OT: Predicted to be the No. 5 overall pick by the Washington Commanders. Miller highlights Banks as a prototypical left tackle with a powerful 324-pound frame, essential for protecting quarterback Jayden Daniels. Banks has allowed just two sacks over two full seasons at Texas.
2. Quinn Ewers, QB: Projected to be the No. 10 overall pick by the New Orleans Saints. Miller notes that Ewers, a highly touted recruit, has first-overall pick potential. Despite some decision-making issues, his accuracy, mobility, and arm strength make him a promising NFL starter. Ewers threw for 3,479 yards and 22 touchdowns last season.
3. Isaiah Bond, WR: Expected to be the No. 25 pick by the Cincinnati Bengals. Transferring from Alabama, Bond is seen as one of the top receivers in college football. Miller suggests that Bond will take on the Xavier Worthy role in Texas’ offense, leveraging his elite downfield speed. Bond averaged 13.9 yards per catch and scored four touchdowns last season despite Alabama’s inconsistent passing game.
