The 2025 NFL Draft, set to begin on April 24th in Green Bay, Wisconsin, promises an exciting showcase of Texas Longhorn talent. This year, the university's program has sent a remarkable 14 players to the prestigious NFL Combine, surpassing last year’s impressive count of 11 participants. While no records were broken, the Longhorns made a significant impact in Indianapolis.
Beyond sheer numbers, individual performances stood out. Wide receiver Matthew Golden emerged as a standout performer, clocking an astounding 4.29 seconds in the 40-yard dash, just edging out former Tennessee wideout Dont’e Thornton Jr. by a mere hundredth of a second. Isaiah Bond, despite his bold claim to break Xavier Worthy’s record, finished ninth among wide receivers with a time of 4.39 seconds, earning some playful ribbing from Worthy. The draft prospects for several former Longhorns have significantly improved since the season's end, particularly defensive back Jahdae Barron, who excelled with a 4.39-second 40-yard dash and impressive jumps, placing him among the top cornerbacks.
Running back Jaydon Blue also showcased his speed, securing the second-fastest time among running backs with a 4.38-second sprint. Tight end Gunnar Helm, despite an ankle injury, managed a respectable 4.84-second run. Among the offensive linemen, Kelvin Banks Jr., projected as a first-round pick, delivered a solid performance with a 32-inch vertical jump and a swift 4.66-second shuttle run. Quarterback Quinn Ewers participated in passing drills, demonstrating his skills without engaging in individual events.
As anticipation builds for the upcoming draft, analysts predict that Kelvin Banks Jr., Matthew Golden, and Jahdae Barron will be among the first Longhorns selected. Banks is tipped to be a likely top-10 pick, while Golden and Barron are expected to be chosen in the mid to late first round. These performances not only highlight the exceptional talent of these athletes but also underscore the strength and success of the Texas Longhorns football program. The future looks bright for these players as they prepare to embark on their professional careers, embodying the spirit of perseverance and excellence that defines the Longhorns.