The 2025 NFL Draft saw a remarkable surge in talent from the University of Texas, with 12 Longhorns selected across various rounds. This influx underscores the program’s resurgence under head coach Steve Sarkisian, who has cultivated a pipeline of elite prospects. For these young athletes, transitioning from college to professional football is not only a career milestone but also a significant financial leap. Understanding their projected earnings and rookie contracts provides insight into their immediate futures and the financial landscape of the NFL.
The NFL’s rookie salary structure is primarily governed by the Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA), which standardizes contract terms for first-round picks and establishes a salary scale for later-round selections. First-round picks receive four-year contracts with a team option for a fifth year, while players drafted in subsequent rounds sign four-year deals without fifth-year options. These contracts include base salaries, signing bonuses, and performance incentives, with the total value varying based on draft position.
Among the 12 Longhorns drafted, several stand out due to their high draft positions and projected earnings. Byron Murphy II, selected 16th overall by the Seattle Seahawks, signed a four-year rookie contract worth approximately $16.08 million. This contract includes a signing bonus and base salary, positioning Murphy to make a significant financial impact early in his career. Similarly, Matthew Golden, chosen 23rd overall by the Green Bay Packers, is expected to receive a contract in the range of $15 million, reflecting his first-round status.
Other notable draftees include Xavier Worthy, who was selected 28th overall by the Kansas City Chiefs. Worthy’s contract is projected to be in the $14 million range, aligning with his late first-round selection. Jordan Whittington, drafted 213th overall by the Los Angeles Rams, is anticipated to earn a contract valued at approximately $3.9 million, consistent with his sixth-round draft position.
The remaining Longhorns drafted in the later rounds will receive contracts commensurate with their positions. For instance, Jaylan Ford, selected 175th overall by the New Orleans Saints, is expected to sign a contract valued at around $3.5 million. Similarly, other draftees in the later rounds will have contracts reflecting the NFL’s salary scale for those positions.
In addition to their rookie contracts, many of these players have the potential to earn substantial income through endorsement deals. The NFL’s collective bargaining agreement allows players to engage in personal marketing and endorsement activities, providing opportunities for additional revenue streams. Players with strong college reputations and marketability, such as Xavier Worthy and Matthew Golden, are well-positioned to secure endorsement deals with major brands.
The financial trajectory for these Longhorns will also be influenced by their performance on the field. Players who make an immediate impact and secure starting roles can expect to negotiate higher-value second contracts. Conversely, those who develop more gradually may see their earnings grow over time as they prove their value to their teams.
In summary, the 12 Texas Longhorns drafted in the 2025 NFL Draft are poised to make significant financial gains through their rookie contracts and potential endorsement opportunities. Their earnings will vary based on draft position, performance, and marketability, but all are set to embark on financially rewarding professional football careers. This influx of talent and financial success not only benefits the individual players but also enhances the prestige and reputation of the University of Texas football program.
