After a remarkable season that saw the Texas Longhorns reach the College Football Playoff (CFP) semifinals, the team is now facing a significant challenge as they prepare for the upcoming NFL Draft. The Longhorns have lost five early entrants to the draft, a figure that ranks them second only to Georgia. This exodus of talent undoubtedly raises questions about the future of the program, but it also highlights the impressive caliber of players that Texas has developed.
Texas players announcing early for 2025 NFL Draft
The early departures of these talented athletes create a mix of excitement and concern among Longhorns fans. While losing five key players is a hefty blow, many of these individuals are projected to be top prospects in the NFL Draft. Let’s take a closer look at who is heading to the next level and what their prospects might be.
Kelvin Banks Jr., Texas OT
Leading the charge is offensive tackle Kelvin Banks Jr., a standout player who has made a name for himself during his time at Texas. A five-star recruit, Banks started every game of his college career, totaling 42 starts. His accolades speak volumes: in 2024, he won the prestigious Lombardi Award and the Outland Trophy, and he was named a consensus first-team All-American. Banks is projected to be a high first-round draft pick, with some mock drafts placing him as high as fourth overall. Regardless of where he lands, he is expected to be a cornerstone for whichever NFL team selects him.
Quinn Ewers, Texas QB
Next up is quarterback Quinn Ewers, who was once considered the top prospect in the 2022 recruiting class. After a brief stint at Ohio State, Ewers transferred to Texas, where he became a starter for three seasons. In that time, he amassed an impressive 9,128 passing yards and 68 touchdowns against 24 interceptions. Ewers led Texas to the CFP semifinals in his last two seasons, showcasing his potential as a future NFL star. However, opinions on his draft stock vary widely; some analysts believe he could sneak into the first round, while others see him more likely to be a second or third-round pick.
Isaiah Bond, Texas WR
Another intriguing prospect is wide receiver Isaiah Bond. Originally a four-star recruit from Georgia who chose Alabama, Bond transferred to Texas and had a solid season in 2024. He recorded 34 receptions for 540 yards and five touchdowns. While Bond has faced some inconsistency, his speed and ball skills make him a valuable asset. Draft projections for him vary, with some suggesting he could land in the first round, while others anticipate a second or third-round selection.
Jaydon Blue, Texas RB
Running back Jaydon Blue is also making the leap to the NFL. A four-star recruit, Blue capitalized on opportunities due to injuries within the team. In 2024, he rushed for 730 yards and scored eight touchdowns, while also contributing in the passing game with 42 receptions for 368 yards and six additional touchdowns. Blue’s versatility makes him an appealing prospect, although the devaluation of running backs in the NFL could see him drafted in the late rounds or possibly as an undrafted free agent. A strong performance at the NFL combine could significantly boost his draft stock.
Cameron Williams, Texas OT
Lastly, we have offensive tackle Cameron Williams, a three-star recruit who has steadily improved throughout his college career. After playing special teams in 2022, Williams started one game in 2023 and then took on a full-time role in 2024, starting 15 games at tackle. Standing at 6-foot-5 and 335 pounds, Williams possesses the physical attributes that NFL teams covet. He is projected to be a late first-round to early second-round pick, with a high ceiling that could see him rise quickly in the professional ranks.
As Texas navigates the fallout from these early draft entries, the focus will be on how the program can rebuild and maintain its competitive edge. The departures of these talented players will undoubtedly create gaps, but the Longhorns have a history of recruiting strong talent, and their coaching staff will be eager to fill those voids.
What do you think of Texas’s draft losses? Share your thoughts below in our comments section! The future may seem uncertain for the Longhorns, but one thing is clear: the talent they have produced will leave a lasting impact on the NFL landscape. The excitement surrounding these players as they transition to the professional level is palpable, and fans will be watching closely to see where they land.
