Three Texas Longhorns Land in Top 20 of Latest NFL Mock Draft

In a season filled with promising prospects and under-the-radar talent, the Texas Longhorns football program has emerged as a powerhouse for the 2025 NFL Draft. For the first time in recent memory, three Longhorns players are projected to land in the top 20 of the latest NFL mock drafts, marking a significant achievement for both the players and the University of Texas. This development is a testament to the program’s resurgence, underlining the impressive coaching and player development coming out of Austin, Texas. The players in question have not only made waves in college football but are now being heralded as future stars in the NFL.

The Rise of the Longhorns: A New Era of Dominance

The Texas Longhorns football program has a rich history, filled with national championships, legendary players, and high-profile NFL alumni. Yet, in recent years, the team had fallen into something of a slump. Texas, which had been a staple in college football dominance, struggled to regain the elite status it once held. However, over the past few seasons, things have started to change. Head coach Steve Sarkisian has instilled a new culture of discipline, skill development, and competitive play that has led to the Longhorns becoming a national contender again.

This resurgence is exemplified by the fact that three Longhorns players have now been projected as first-round selections in the upcoming NFL draft. The list of top prospects features both offensive and defensive standouts, and their combined talents reflect the overall growth and competitiveness of the program.

Texas Longhorns in the Top 20 of the NFL Mock Draft

The latest NFL mock draft rankings have been updated, and three Longhorns players have secured spots in the coveted top 20, a rare achievement that speaks to their potential at the next level. Let’s take a closer look at these top prospects and what makes them such coveted commodities.

1. Bijan Robinson (Running Back, #1 or #2 Overall Pick)

One of the most electrifying players in college football over the past few seasons, Bijan Robinson has been a force of nature in the Texas Longhorns offense. The running back is widely regarded as one of the best prospects to come out of the collegiate ranks in recent years, and he’s expected to be a top-tier pick in the 2025 NFL Draft. Robinson’s combination of speed, agility, vision, and power has made him an unstoppable weapon for Texas. His playmaking ability is comparable to some of the best NFL running backs, and NFL teams will be salivating over the opportunity to select him.

At 6’0″ and 220 pounds, Robinson has a solid build that allows him to break tackles and run through defenders while maintaining the burst to break away for long touchdowns. In 2024, he dominated the Big 12, regularly exceeding 100 yards in games and contributing both as a rusher and a receiver. He is an all-around back capable of carrying the load for an NFL team, and his versatility will likely make him a highly sought-after commodity.

Robinson’s skills also extend beyond traditional running back duties. His ability to run precise routes and contribute in the passing game makes him an ideal asset in today’s NFL, where running backs are increasingly expected to be dual-threats. As one of the top players in this draft class, Robinson’s NFL future is bright, and many teams with a high pick may view him as a potential centerpiece for their offensive schemes.

2. Jahlil Billingsley (Tight End, #13 Overall Pick)

Another player gaining attention is Jahlil Billingsley, a towering presence on the field at 6’5″ and 250 pounds. Billingsley has consistently been one of the most dangerous playmakers for the Longhorns, making him one of the top tight end prospects in the draft. Billingsley’s size and athleticism make him a mismatch for defenders, as he can overpower linebackers while also using his speed to outrun safeties.

While Billingsley is known for his blocking ability, which is crucial in today’s NFL, it’s his receiving skills that have made him stand out. He’s a dynamic target in the red zone and possesses a natural ability to high-point the ball in contested situations. His route-running has improved each year at Texas, and NFL scouts are taking notice of his ability to stretch the field vertically.

Billingsley’s contributions are expected to make a significant impact at the next level. Tight ends who can both block and catch passers at a high level are increasingly in demand in the NFL, and Billingsley’s all-around skill set positions him as one of the top tight ends in the draft. His combination of size, strength, and versatility makes him a prime candidate to go in the top 15 picks.

3. Isaiah Neyor (Wide Receiver, #17 Overall Pick)

As one of the most explosive wide receivers in the Big 12, Isaiah Neyor has been a crucial part of the Longhorns’ passing game. Standing at 6’3″ and possessing an impressive 4.4-second 40-yard dash time, Neyor’s speed and playmaking ability make him a dangerous threat on the outside. His ability to stretch the field vertically is one of his greatest assets, and his chemistry with Texas quarterbacks has been evident on deep throws. Neyor is also known for his physicality, making him a reliable receiver in contested catches.

During the 2024 season, Neyor’s big-play potential was on full display as he consistently delivered game-changing performances. He’s a well-rounded receiver who can be utilized in a variety of ways, both inside and outside the offense. With a long frame, great hands, and a strong route tree, Neyor is one of the most well-rounded wide receiver prospects in the draft.

In today’s NFL, where elite wide receivers are in high demand, Neyor’s mix of size and speed makes him an intriguing option for teams looking to bolster their receiving corps. He has the potential to be a top-20 pick and could quickly develop into a key offensive weapon for his future NFL team.

The Longhorns’ Draft Surge and the Impact on the Program

The fact that three Texas Longhorns players are projected to be selected in the top 20 is a significant achievement for the program and reflects the growth of Texas football under coach Steve Sarkisian. This accomplishment also highlights the coaching staff’s ability to develop talent and prepare players for the next level. These projections will undoubtedly lead to increased visibility for the program, which has historically been one of the premier destinations for high school recruits.

It’s also important to note that the NFL Draft is a reflection of the overall quality of a football program. With these three players gaining recognition as top prospects, it speaks volumes about the depth of talent on the Longhorns roster. This can only help Texas as they look to recruit more elite prospects in the future, solidifying the program as one of the nation’s best.

Beyond the individual accomplishments of the players, these early NFL Draft projections also offer a glimpse into the future of Texas football. As NFL teams take notice of these players, they may be more inclined to turn their attention to the Longhorns as a potential pipeline for future talent. It’s not just about individual achievements; it’s about the Longhorns becoming a consistent presence in the NFL Draft and continuing their rise to prominence on the national stage.

Future NFL Careers

For the three Longhorns in the top 20, the future looks bright. However, getting drafted into the NFL is just the beginning. The next step is to prove themselves at the professional level. Players like Robinson, Billingsley, and Neyor will face stiff competition as they transition from college football to the NFL, where the talent pool is much deeper. Success will depend on their ability to adjust to the speed of the game and the intricacies of an NFL offense or defense.

For Bijan Robinson, his ability to transition into an NFL back will be key. Running backs in the NFL often face short careers, but Robinson’s complete skill set—particularly his ability to contribute in the passing game—may help extend his time in the league. Tight end Jahlil Billingsley will likely need to prove his blocking skills further to earn playing time, while also showcasing his value as a pass-catching option. As for Isaiah Neyor, his big-play potential will be closely monitored, and how well he adapts to the NFL’s more physical style of play will determine how soon he can make an impact.

While these players are expected to be drafted highly, their work is far from over. With the right coaching, training, and development at the next level, these Texas Longhorns players could have long and successful careers in the NFL.

The Texas Longhorns are once again making their mark on the NFL Draft scene, with three players projected to land in the top 20. Bijan Robinson, Jahlil Billingsley, and Isaiah Neyor are all poised to make their respective impacts at the next level, thanks to their incredible talent and hard work. As these players prepare for the next phase of their football careers, the entire Texas football program stands to benefit from the increased visibility and recognition.

This milestone is not only a testament to the individual skills of these players but also to the growing strength and competitiveness of the Longhorns as a program. With these players leading the charge, Texas football is once again looking like a force to be reckoned with in both college football and the NFL Draft.

As we look toward the future, the Longhorns will undoubtedly continue to develop more NFL-caliber talent, and it’s exciting to think about where this program might go in the coming years. For now, the focus remains on the 2025 NFL Draft, where these three Longhorns are expected to make history.