The University of Texas Longhorns had an impressive showing in the 2025 NFL Draft, with a total of 12 players selected, marking the third-highest total of any school. This achievement is a testament to the talent pipeline that Texas continues to produce, and it highlights the strength of the Longhorns’ football program, which has been a cornerstone of college football for decades. In this essay, we will explore the significance of Texas’ draft performance, the players involved, the evolution of the Texas football program, and what this draft means for the future of both the Longhorns and the NFL.
The Significance of Texas’ 2025 Draft Performance
Texas’ 12 players selected in the 2025 NFL Draft underscores the enduring power of the program. The Longhorns have long been a breeding ground for future NFL stars, and their ability to produce such a high number of prospects is a reflection of the strength and depth of their football talent pool. It is not only a remarkable achievement for the university but also a statement to the college football world about the quality of players Texas continues to develop. This result places Texas among the elite programs in terms of player development and draft success, behind only a few powerhouse schools that consistently lead the nation in NFL draft picks.
In the 2025 draft, Texas finished with 12 players selected, which was the third-highest total of any school. This ranking is an indication of both the depth of talent on the roster and the exceptional development that these players received under Texas’ coaching staff. Only schools like Alabama and Georgia, which have been perennial national title contenders in recent years, had more players drafted, reinforcing the idea that the Longhorns are continuing to climb the ranks of college football’s elite. Having 12 players selected in a single draft is a remarkable feat, and it signals that Texas is once again a program to be reckoned with in the world of college football.
The Players: A Look at the Top Picks
The 2025 NFL Draft was notable not only for the sheer number of players selected from Texas but also for the quality of players who were taken. Some of the Longhorns’ top prospects came from positions of great need in the NFL, making them even more attractive to teams looking to fill gaps on their rosters. Let’s take a closer look at some of the players who made an impact.
1. Quinn Ewers – Quarterback
Arguably the most high-profile player from Texas in the 2025 draft was quarterback Quinn Ewers. Ewers, who had a standout career at Texas after transferring from Ohio State, was one of the most anticipated quarterbacks in the draft. A highly touted recruit coming out of high school, Ewers’ success at Texas solidified his status as one of the top quarterbacks in the nation. His arm strength, mobility, and playmaking ability made him an attractive option for teams in need of a franchise quarterback.
Ewers’ selection in the first round was a testament to his growth and potential, and it set the stage for future success at the NFL level. His performance in the 2024 college season, which included several key victories over top-ranked opponents, showed that he had the ability to perform in high-pressure situations. Ewers’ development under the Texas coaching staff, particularly head coach Steve Sarkisian, was crucial in refining his skills and preparing him for the NFL.
2. Bijan Robinson – Running Back
Another notable player drafted from Texas was running back Bijan Robinson. Robinson, one of the top running back prospects in recent memory, had a sensational career at Texas, breaking numerous records and earning All-American honors. His combination of vision, speed, and power made him a versatile weapon on the field, and he was a consistent game-changer for the Longhorns throughout his college career.
Robinson’s selection in the first round was a no-brainer for NFL teams, as his ability to contribute both as a rusher and a receiver out of the backfield made him an ideal candidate for teams looking for a dynamic playmaker. His selection was a validation of the running back position’s value in the modern NFL, as teams continue to prioritize versatile, multi-dimensional backs who can make an impact in a variety of ways.
3. Jared Wiley – Tight End
Tight end Jared Wiley was another standout player from the Texas roster who was selected in the 2025 NFL Draft. Wiley, known for his athleticism and ability to stretch the field, had a productive career at Texas and was considered one of the top tight ends available in the draft. His combination of size, speed, and hands made him an ideal target for NFL offenses, particularly those that rely on tight ends as key parts of their passing game.
Wiley’s selection in the draft showed that the NFL continues to value tight ends who can serve as both blockers and pass-catchers, and he is expected to make an immediate impact at the next level.
Texas Football: A Program on the Rise
The 2025 NFL Draft results are a reflection of the ongoing resurgence of the Texas football program. In recent years, Texas has undergone a transformation under head coach Steve Sarkisian, who has helped to rebuild the team’s reputation and restore its place among college football’s elite programs. The influx of NFL talent is a direct result of Sarkisian’s coaching philosophy, which emphasizes player development, discipline, and the cultivation of a winning culture.
Sarkisian, who took over the program in 2021, has shown that he can recruit and develop talent at the highest level. His ability to bring in top-tier recruits and get the best out of them on the field has paid off, as evidenced by the 2025 draft. The development of players like Quinn Ewers and Bijan Robinson, who have gone on to be top draft picks, is a testament to Sarkisian’s ability to nurture talent and maximize their potential.
Additionally, the success of the Texas program is also a reflection of the strength of the university’s overall athletic infrastructure. With state-of-the-art facilities, a passionate fanbase, and a long-standing tradition of success, Texas has everything it needs to continue attracting top talent. The presence of a strong football program is also important for the university’s branding and national recognition, contributing to Texas’ appeal as a destination for elite athletes.
Impact on the NFL
The NFL’s selection of 12 Texas players in the 2025 Draft will have significant implications for both the league and the Longhorns. For the NFL, this influx of talent is a clear indication of the continuing trend of college football players who are capable of making an immediate impact at the professional level. The Longhorns’ success in developing NFL-ready talent speaks to the depth and breadth of talent available in the college ranks, and it ensures that the NFL will continue to draw from Texas as one of its premier talent pools.
For the Longhorns, this draft performance also positions the team to be a major contender in future seasons. With a pipeline to the NFL, Texas can continue to attract top recruits and further solidify its position as a dominant force in college football. Having players consistently drafted into the NFL increases the program’s national stature, making it more attractive to both recruits and fans alike.
Moreover, these 12 players represent a new era for Texas football. The success of these players will be a source of pride for the program, and it will likely inspire future generations of Longhorns to pursue excellence both on and off the field. The visibility and excitement surrounding Texas football will undoubtedly fuel further interest in the program and its recruiting efforts, ensuring that the Longhorns remain a dominant force in college football for years to come.
Texas’ 12 players taken in the 2025 NFL Draft was a remarkable achievement that showcases the depth of talent within the program and the continuing success of the Longhorns’ football team. With standout players like Quinn Ewers, Bijan Robinson, and Jared Wiley leading the charge, Texas has firmly established itself as a breeding ground for NFL talent. The draft results not only highlight the strength of the Texas football program but also signal a bright future for both the Longhorns and the NFL.
As Texas continues to develop elite talent and produce top-tier NFL prospects, it is clear that the program is on the rise, and the 2025 draft is just the beginning of what could be a new golden age for Texas football. With a combination of strong coaching, player development, and recruiting, the Longhorns are primed to remain a dominant force in college football, and their future in the NFL looks equally promising.
