More Longhorns Join Growing List of UT Players Declaring for NFL Draft
As the 2024 college football season winds down and the spotlight shifts to the NFL Draft, the University of Texas Longhorns have seen a growing list of players declaring their intentions to turn professional. This influx of talent entering the draft process marks an important milestone in the program’s trajectory under head coach Steve Sarkisian, as Texas continues to churn out NFL prospects and send a clear message about the strength of its recruiting and player development.
With the Longhorns heading into a crucial phase as they prepare to join the Southeastern Conference (SEC) in 2025, this year’s draft declarations underscore the level of talent on the Texas roster. The growing list of players making the decision to declare for the draft, from underclassmen to seniors, not only reflects the success of the Texas program but also highlights the level of development that has been taking place under Sarkisian’s leadership.
In this article, we will take a closer look at the Longhorns players who have declared for the 2024 NFL Draft, analyze their impact on the program, and discuss what these declarations mean for the future of Texas football. Additionally, we will explore how these departures may affect the team’s depth moving forward and what Texas needs to do to maintain its competitive edge as the program transitions to the SEC.
1. The Growing List of Longhorns Declaring for the NFL Draft
Each year, as the NFL Draft approaches, college programs prepare to see their stars depart for the next level. For Texas, the 2024 NFL Draft will see a number of key players from different positions declare for the draft, leaving a noticeable void in certain areas. Some of these players have been cornerstones of the Longhorns’ success over the last few seasons, while others have burst onto the scene in 2024 and established themselves as future professional players. The following is a look at some of the most notable Longhorns who have decided to make the leap to the NFL:
A. Quinn Ewers (Quarterback)
One of the most significant announcements from Texas came with Quinn Ewers, the Longhorns’ starting quarterback. After a promising start to his college career at Ohio State, Ewers transferred to Texas in 2022, where he became the face of the offense. Ewers’ performance in 2024 was one of the key factors in Texas’ successful season, and his playmaking ability has earned him the attention of NFL scouts.
Ewers is a strong-armed quarterback with impressive mobility and the potential to develop into a starting NFL signal-caller. Throughout his time at Texas, Ewers showed flashes of brilliance, particularly with his deep ball accuracy and ability to lead the team in crucial moments. However, while he had a successful 2024 campaign, it’s clear that Ewers is ready to make the jump to the NFL, where his skills could be further refined in a professional system. His decision to declare for the draft is expected to make waves, as many believe he has the tools to succeed at the next level.
B. Jahdae Barron (Cornerback)
On the defensive side of the ball, Jahdae Barron, one of Texas’ most talented defensive backs, has also declared for the NFL Draft. Barron was one of the cornerstones of the Longhorns’ defense in 2024, bringing both athleticism and football IQ to the back end of the secondary. A shutdown corner with great speed and ball skills, Barron showed an ability to lock down top receivers and create turnovers throughout the season.
Barron’s decision to enter the draft comes as no surprise given his stellar performance during his time at Texas. His athleticism and competitiveness make him a standout prospect, and he’s expected to be a top pick in the draft. His physical style of play and ability to excel in both man and zone coverage should make him an attractive option for NFL teams in need of a cornerback who can make an immediate impact.
C. Bijan Robinson (Running Back)
Although Bijan Robinson declared for the 2023 NFL Draft, it’s worth mentioning that his legacy continues to influence Texas football, and the ripple effect of his departure is still being felt in the program. Robinson was one of the most electrifying running backs in college football, and his decision to forgo his remaining eligibility was a key moment in the development of Texas football. His success in the NFL will have a long-lasting impact on the program, and many expect him to be a future NFL star.
D. Kelvin Banks Jr. (Offensive Tackle)
Kelvin Banks Jr., the standout offensive tackle, has been one of the anchors on the Longhorns’ offensive line and has declared for the NFL Draft after a strong 2024 season. Banks, who is considered one of the top offensive line prospects in the draft, has the size and athleticism to thrive in the NFL. He played a pivotal role in protecting Texas quarterbacks and clearing running lanes for the team’s backs. His versatility and ability to play both tackle positions give him an edge in the draft process, and he’s expected to be a high selection in the 2024 draft.
Banks’ decision to enter the draft comes after a standout career at Texas, where he established himself as one of the most dominant offensive linemen in the country. His powerful frame and quick feet have garnered attention from NFL scouts, and his future in the league looks promising.
E. Jatavion Sanders (Tight End)
Jatavion Sanders, the Longhorns’ standout tight end, has also declared for the NFL Draft, adding another key player to the growing list of Texas talent heading to the next level. Sanders has been one of the top playmakers on offense for the Longhorns, showcasing his ability to create mismatches with defenders. His combination of size, speed, and athleticism allows him to be a reliable target in both the passing game and in-line blocking situations.
Sanders’ decision to declare for the NFL Draft reflects the growing demand for versatile tight ends in the professional game. His ability to line up in multiple positions and make plays in various ways will make him an attractive option for NFL teams looking to add a dynamic playmaker to their offense. He’s expected to be one of the top tight ends selected in the 2024 draft.
2. Impact of These Declarations on Texas Football
The decision by several key Texas players to enter the NFL Draft undoubtedly leaves a void in the Longhorns’ roster. These players, who have been instrumental in Texas’ success, will be difficult to replace. However, their departures also create an opportunity for the next generation of Longhorns to step up and fill those roles.
A. Quarterback Position
Ewers’ decision to declare for the NFL Draft means that Texas will need to find a new starting quarterback for the 2025 season. The Longhorns’ quarterback room, which includes talented players like Maalik Murphy and incoming freshmen, will now be tasked with taking over the reins. Murphy, who has shown flashes of potential in limited action, will likely be the leading candidate to take over for Ewers. Additionally, Sarkisian will continue to recruit top-tier quarterbacks in order to ensure that the program remains competitive at the most important position on the field.
B. Secondary and Defense
Jahdae Barron’s departure from the secondary leaves a significant hole in Texas’ defense. Barron’s ability to lock down top receivers and make game-changing plays was a key part of Texas’ defensive success. The Longhorns will need to find a replacement in the secondary who can match Barron’s level of play. This will likely fall to some of the younger corners on the roster, as well as incoming recruits.
Additionally, Texas will have to continue developing its defensive unit to ensure that it remains a top defense in the Big 12 and beyond. With the addition of some key defensive recruits and the development of players already in the program, Texas’ defense is in good hands moving forward, but Barron’s departure will undoubtedly leave a leadership void.
C. Offensive Line and Tight End
The loss of players like Kelvin Banks Jr. on the offensive line and Jatavion Sanders at tight end will test the depth of the Longhorns’ offense. Texas has been active in recruiting offensive linemen and tight ends, and the program will look to its younger players to step up and fill the shoes of these draft-bound stars. The development of Cole Hutson and other offensive linemen will be crucial for the Longhorns as they transition into the SEC, where they will face tougher competition each week.
At tight end, Texas will likely rely on players like Brock Bowers and Jared Wiley to step up in Sanders’ absence. With Sarkisian’s emphasis on utilizing tight ends in his offensive system, the Longhorns will need to develop their younger talent at this position to maintain offensive balance.
3. Texas’ Future in the SEC
With the influx of talent leaving the program, Texas will need to be diligent in its recruiting efforts to ensure that the team remains competitive when it transitions to the SEC in 2025. The SEC is known for its elite level of competition, and Texas will need to continue recruiting at a high level to compete with programs like Alabama, Georgia, and LSU. The Longhorns’ success in the NFL Draft and the talent they’ve developed in recent years provide a solid foundation for future success, but they will need to maintain and grow that talent pool as they prepare for the rigors of SEC football.
4. Conclusion
The growing list of Texas Longhorns declaring for the NFL Draft is both a testament to the program’s talent and an indicator of the challenges ahead. The departures of players like Quinn Ewers, Jahdae Barron, Kelvin Banks Jr., and Jatavion Sanders leave significant voids, but they also provide opportunities for new stars to emerge. As Texas continues to develop talent and recruit the best players, the future of the Longhorns looks bright, even as the program transitions into the competitive environment of the SEC. For now, the Longhorns’ focus remains on sending their departing players to the next level while continuing to build a championship-contending team for the future.
