The 2025 NFL Draft is poised to showcase a remarkable group of Texas Longhorns, with three standout players projected to be selected in the first round. This unprecedented achievement underscores the exceptional talent emerging from the University of Texas football program.
Kelvin Banks Jr. – Offensive Lineman
Kelvin Banks Jr., a formidable offensive lineman, has garnered significant attention from NFL scouts and analysts. His versatility and prowess on the field have positioned him as a top prospect for the upcoming draft.
- ESPN’s Matt Miller projects Banks to be selected by the Chicago Bears with the 10th overall pick. Miller notes that Banks’ NFL combine measurements will be crucial, as some scouts believe he is better suited to play guard. He adds, “This pick would fill a short-term need at guard and a long-term one at tackle if (Braxton) Jones departs. Chicago allowed a league-high 68 sacks this season, so getting better there will be important this offseason.”
- NFL.com’s Lance Zierlein also has Banks going to the Bears at the 10th overall spot. Zierlein observes, “Banks’ 2024 tape was a little up-and-down, but he is battle-tested against NFL-caliber talent. He can play left tackle or move inside to guard. The Bears need all things O-line.”
- CBS Sports echoes this sentiment, projecting Banks to the Bears at the same position. Josh Edwards writes, “Chicago has to fix that unit before worrying about the rest.”
- The Athletic’s Scott Dochterman highlights Banks’ accolades, stating, “Banks (6-foot-4, 320 pounds) won the Outland Trophy as the nation’s top interior lineman and has positional flexibility. The Bears need a plug-and-play offensive lineman in the worst way, and Banks will start somewhere on day one.”
Jahdae Barron – Defensive Back
Jahdae Barron, a dynamic defensive back, has impressed throughout his collegiate career, earning recognition for his exceptional skills and playmaking ability.
- ESPN’s Matt Miller projects Barron to be selected by the Arizona Cardinals with the 16th overall pick. Miller notes, “Some teams might view him as an inside corner, while others like Barron’s tape on the outside. Playing him on the inside with Budda Baker gives the Cardinals instant improvement on the back end.”
- NFL.com’s Lance Zierlein has Barron going to the Minnesota Vikings at the 24th overall spot. Zierlein writes, “With terrific instincts and ball production, Barron could step in quickly if necessary.”
- CBS Sports projects Barron to the Green Bay Packers at the 21st overall pick. Edwards suggests, “The expectation is that Jaire Alexander is not a part of next season’s roster. If Carrington Valentine is starting in one of those boundary spots, then the Packers can plug and play Jahdae Barron in the slot.”
Matthew Golden – Wide Receiver
Matthew Golden, a standout wide receiver, has demonstrated exceptional talent and consistency, making him a highly sought-after prospect for the NFL.
- ESPN’s Matt Miller projects Golden to be selected by the Dallas Cowboys with the 12th overall pick. Miller notes, “Golden is a surging prospect. He started the season as Texas’ No. 2 receiver but became its go-to target late in the season and in the College Football Playoff, finishing with 58 receptions for 987 yards and nine touchdowns.”
- NFL.com’s Lance Zierlein has Golden going to the Pittsburgh Steelers at the 21st overall spot. Zierlein observes, “Golden can line up inside or outside. He took a big step forward as a playmaker in 2024 and would give the Steelers a drama-free option at wideout.”
- The Athletic’s Nick Baumgardner agrees with Zierlein’s assessment, stating, “This might be a little high for Golden, but he’s another player who really took advantage of the extended College Football Playoff this year. He was the true star receiver for the Longhorns this season after spending two years at Houston.”
Quinn Ewers – Quarterback
Quinn Ewers, the Texas Longhorns’ quarterback, has shown significant potential, leading to discussions about his future in the NFL.
- The Athletic’s Scott Dochterman projects Ewers to be selected by the Seattle Seahawks in the second round, 50th overall. Dochterman notes, “Whether he’s NFL starting material remains to be seen, but he’s definitely worth taking a flier on 50 picks into the draft.”
These projections highlight the depth of talent within the Texas Longhorns football program and their potential impact on the NFL. As the draft approaches, these athletes are poised to make significant contributions to their respective teams, marking a new chapter in their football careers.
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