The Texas Longhorns have not just maintained, but expanded their reputation as an NFL talent factory. Over the last two years, 23 former Longhorns have been selected across the NFL Draft, with many enjoying immediate impact roles as rookies. As the 2026 NFL Draft approaches, the program continues its record pace this time with a new set of contenders. The league recently revealed its list of 2026 Scouting Combine invitees, placing seven Texas standouts on the national radar.
The NFL Pipeline: Texas Talent Shines
Sending high-performing athletes to the NFL has become standard for Texas. Last season alone, the Longhorns set a new school record with 12 players drafted, including three first-rounders and several day-three gems who made names for themselves in the pros.
Wide receiver Matthew Golden, for example, stole the show at last year’s Combine with a scorching 4.29-second 40-yard dash, vaulting himself into the first round. Tackle Kelvin Banks Jr. and cornerback Jahdae Barron joined him in the elite opening round, underscoring Texas’ depth and player development.
Meet the 2026 Combine Invitees: The Next Generation
While no Texas players currently appear on early first-round projections for 2026, the NFL Scouting Combine is notorious for producing risers. These seven invitees look to seize that opportunity and possibly follow in the fast footsteps of their predecessors:
Jack Endries – Tight End
A consistent presence at the line of scrimmage, Jack Endries has built his reputation as both a reliable pass-catcher and an adept blocker. Scouts will be keen to see his agility in receiving drills and explosiveness during the vertical leap and 40-yard dash. An impressive combine could position Endries as a versatile, mid-round steal.
DJ Campbell – Offensive Guard
DJ Campbell’s sturdy frame and nimble footwork have anchored Texas’ interior line. The Combine will provide Campbell a stage to display strength in the bench press and quickness through the shuttle runs. Teams in need of depth and starting potential at guard will have their eyes locked on his performance.
Trey Moore – Edge Rusher
Known for his relentless pursuit of quarterbacks, Trey Moore has a proven knack for creating backfield chaos. Explosive in the first step and disciplined in pursuit, his combine numbers in the three-cone drill and broad jump could lift his stock—and possibly land him among early round discussions.
Anthony Hill Jr. – Linebacker
Regarded as one of the top defensive prospects in this Texas class, Anthony Hill Jr. is making waves as a tackling machine with the versatility to patrol sideline to sideline. Many analysts currently see Hill Jr. as a solid Day 2 pick, but a dynamic performance at the combine could see him climb draft boards quickly.
Manny Muhammad – Defensive Back
Manny Muhammad’s ball skills and anticipation have made him a standout against the pass. Scouts will look closely at his recovery speed and fluidity in change-of-direction drills. A strong showing could see Muhammad strongly considered for nickel or outside cornerback duties at the next level.
Jaylon Guilbeau – Defensive Back
The physical and instinctive Jaylon Guilbeau complements Muhammad in Texas’ secondary. Known for his willingness to tackle and break on the ball, his combine testing will focus on quickness, agility, and overall flexibility. He’s viewed as a late-round possibility who could intrigue special teams coaches and defensive coordinators.
Michael Taffe – Defensive Back
Michael Taffe’s reliability and football IQ make him a favorite among coaches. Taffe has been praised for his positioning and awareness in deep coverage. Combine interviews and on-field testing could cement his status as a draftable prospect and valuable depth piece for NFL rosters.
Recent Success Stories: Texas Players Thrive in the NFL
The Longhorns’ NFL success isn’t just about first-rounders. Last year, undrafted wide receiver Isaiah Bond signed with the Cleveland Browns and emerged as a regular starter. Quarterback Quinn Ewers, a seventh-round pick by the Miami Dolphins, not only secured a roster spot but ended up starting three games in his rookie year demonstrating the depth and readiness of Texas’ talent pipeline.
Meanwhile, versatile running back Jaydon Blue showcased value after being picked by Dallas in the fifth round, underlining the breadth of NFL-caliber talent Texas develops every year.
Why the Combine Matters More Than Ever
The NFL Scouting Combine remains a crucial proving ground. While current projections may not predict any Texas player cracking the early first round in 2026, explosive workouts and polished interviews still have the power to rewrite narratives.
Prospects like Anthony Hill Jr. could leap up boards, following in the footsteps of Matthew Golden and Kelvin Banks Jr. both of whom turned heads and surged on draft night thanks to their combine showings.
Eyes on Indianapolis
With the 2026 NFL Scouting Combine looming, these seven Longhorns are ready to represent Texas football on the biggest pre-draft stage there is. Will another record be set? Only time and a handful of stopwatch-beating, bench-pressing performances will tell. But one thing’s certain: the eyes of the football world will again be fixed on Austin’s best.
