Three Texas Longhorns Selected in First Round of Post-Combine Mock Draft

The 2025 NFL Draft is fast approaching, and the Texas Longhorns are poised to make a significant impact. Historically, the University of Texas has been a pipeline for NFL talent, and this year, the spotlight is on three standout players who have earned first-round status in post-combine mock drafts. These players, who impressed scouts, coaches, and analysts alike with their performances at the NFL Scouting Combine, represent the latest chapter in a long legacy of Texas football excellence.

With the NFL Scouting Combine now behind us, teams have had the opportunity to evaluate this year’s prospects up close. For the Longhorns, three players—cornerback Anthony Cook, running back Bijan Robinson, and offensive tackle Kelvin Banks—are expected to hear their names called on the first night of the draft. Let’s take a deep dive into each of their profiles, how they performed at the combine, and what they bring to the table for NFL teams.

1. Anthony Cook – Cornerback

Projected Draft Position: Top 10

Overview: Anthony Cook, a standout cornerback for the Texas Longhorns, has been one of the most consistent and impressive defensive players in college football over the past few seasons. Cook’s combination of size, speed, and technique has made him one of the top cornerback prospects in the 2025 NFL Draft. A versatile defender, Cook can play on both the outside and in the slot, making him a valuable asset for any NFL team looking to strengthen its secondary.

NFL Scouting Combine Performance: At the NFL Scouting Combine, Cook showcased his incredible athleticism. Measuring in at 6’1” and weighing 202 pounds, he has the ideal size for a modern cornerback. His 40-yard dash time of 4.37 seconds was among the best for defensive backs, and his vertical leap of 37.5 inches demonstrated his ability to track and challenge receivers at the highest level. Additionally, Cook’s agility and footwork in drills, such as the three-cone drill, highlighted his ability to mirror and react to wide receivers, an essential skill for any corner in today’s NFL.

Impact and Potential Fit in the NFL: Cook’s performance at the combine solidified his status as a top-tier cornerback prospect, and he is widely regarded as a potential top-10 pick in the draft. He has drawn comparisons to current NFL stars like Jalen Ramsey for his physical style of play and ability to take on top-tier wide receivers. Teams like the Detroit Lions, who are in desperate need of a lockdown corner, and the Arizona Cardinals, who are rebuilding their secondary, could be prime landing spots for Cook.

His ability to play both press and off-man coverage will allow him to fit into a variety of defensive schemes. Cook is not just a physical defender; he has shown a high football IQ, often reading quarterbacks and anticipating routes with ease. As he continues to refine his technique and consistency, there’s little doubt that Cook will become a cornerstone piece for whichever team selects him.

2. Bijan Robinson – Running Back

Projected Draft Position: Top 5

Overview: Bijan Robinson has been a dominant force in college football since stepping onto the field for the Texas Longhorns. The 2025 NFL Draft is stacked with running back talent, but Robinson stands out above the rest. A highly skilled and versatile player, Robinson has the ability to impact a game both as a runner and as a receiver out of the backfield. His combination of vision, balance, agility, and speed makes him one of the most complete running back prospects in recent memory.

NFL Scouting Combine Performance: Robinson’s combine performance was nothing short of spectacular. He ran a 4.43-second 40-yard dash, which is incredibly impressive for a back of his size—standing at 6’0” and weighing 220 pounds. His vertical leap of 38 inches further emphasized his explosive athleticism. Additionally, Robinson impressed scouts with his strong bench press performance, demonstrating both strength and power in his lower body.

What sets Robinson apart, however, is his ability to perform in various aspects of the game. His ability to run with power, break tackles, and make defenders miss in open space is well-known, but it’s his skills as a pass catcher that could make him a true game-changer at the next level. Robinson recorded over 300 receiving yards in his college career and showed excellent hands and route-running ability in the combine drills.

Impact and Potential Fit in the NFL: Robinson is expected to be one of the first players off the board, with teams such as the Chicago Bears, who are in need of a true feature back, and the Philadelphia Eagles, who could add another dimension to their high-powered offense, potentially targeting him early. His ability to contribute in both the running and passing games will make him an invaluable asset in a modern NFL offense.

Teams that utilize running backs as multi-dimensional playmakers—such as the San Francisco 49ers or the Kansas City Chiefs—could find Robinson to be a perfect fit. His vision and patience as a ball carrier, combined with his ability to make defenders miss in space, make him one of the most dangerous running backs in the open field. He could quickly develop into one of the top backs in the league.

3. Kelvin Banks – Offensive Tackle

Projected Draft Position: Mid-First Round

Overview: Kelvin Banks, the towering offensive tackle from Texas, is another first-round prospect who has made a name for himself through his remarkable play in the trenches. As one of the most highly regarded offensive linemen in the country, Banks’ potential to protect a franchise quarterback or open running lanes makes him an invaluable asset to any team in need of a left tackle.

Standing at 6’6” and weighing 320 pounds, Banks has the ideal size and strength to compete at the highest level of football. His combination of raw power and nimble footwork allows him to dominate both in the run game and in pass protection. Banks played a crucial role in protecting Texas quarterbacks and opening up lanes for Robinson during his time in Austin, and he is poised to make an immediate impact at the next level.

NFL Scouting Combine Performance: At the combine, Banks displayed elite strength and agility for a player of his size. He posted a 40-yard dash time of 5.04 seconds, which is fast for an offensive tackle. His 10-yard split was even more impressive, showing his quick burst off the line of scrimmage. Banks also impressed in the bench press, recording 28 reps, highlighting his strength in both upper and lower body. His movement in the field drills demonstrated that he is more than capable of handling speed rushers and power rushers alike.

Impact and Potential Fit in the NFL: Banks is a highly sought-after prospect, and he is widely expected to go in the mid-first round, with teams like the Tennessee Titans and the Green Bay Packers looking to bolster their offensive lines. Banks’ ability to come in and immediately start at left tackle makes him an attractive option for teams in need of protection for their quarterbacks.

The Longhorn’s tackle is particularly attractive because of his balance and ability to anchor against pass rushers. His footwork is refined, and he has the strength to keep defenders at bay while also showing the necessary agility to deal with the NFL’s more agile pass rushers. As more teams adopt a pass-heavy approach, a talented left tackle like Banks is becoming a more valuable commodity, ensuring his place in the first round.

The Texas Longhorns’ Draft Legacy

The University of Texas has always been a factory for NFL talent, and the 2025 draft class is no different. With three players—Anthony Cook, Bijan Robinson, and Kelvin Banks—projected to be selected in the first round, the Longhorns will continue their legacy of producing high-quality professional athletes. Each player brings something unique to the table, whether it’s Cook’s lockdown corner abilities, Robinson’s dual-threat running back skill set, or Banks’ stalwart protection on the offensive line.

As the NFL Draft approaches, these three players will undoubtedly be the subject of much speculation, analysis, and excitement. For the Longhorns, the 2025 draft will be another chapter in a long history of success in the NFL, and for each of these prospects, it will be the start of a new and exciting journey.