Seven former Texas Longhorns took part in last week’s NFL combine in Indianapolis. Several helped their draft position with good performances at Lucas Oil Stadium. But which of the Texas players will hear their name first at the 2026 NFL Draft? The answer isn’t a surprise.
As more and more mock drafts come out in anticipation of the draft in April, it’s become clear there won’t be a former Longhorn taken in the first round. Most early mock drafts are just the first round, but with the combine over and the draft now just over a month away, many mock drafts are going deeper.
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In a new two-round mock draft published by ESPN, a former Texas football player shows up in Round 2. Star linebacker Anthony Hill Jr. has been forecast to land in Tampa Bay with the No. 46 pick in the NFL Draft. Hill is the only Longhorn that shows up in the two-round mock draft.
“Bucs linebacker Lavonte David is weighing his options on whether he’ll return for a 15th NFL season. A succession plan is necessary, and Hill is an urgent second-level defender who brings a high caliber of physicality.” – ESPN’s Jordan Reid
Hill had 22 confirmed interviews with NFL teams at the combine and is a very popular option at linebacker for many teams. The Denton, Texas prospect finished his college career with 249 total tackles and 17 sacks. While serving as a key part of Steve Sarkisian’s defense, Hill also recorded three interceptions and seven pass deflections.
This article originally appeared on Longhorns Wire: Which former Texas Football player will be highest 2026 NFL draft pick