NFL mock draft roundup: Bears pair Caleb Williams with Texas football's Kelvin Banks Jr.

Texas football saw 14 players get invited to the 2025 NFL combine, setting a program record after 11 players were invited to the 2024 version of the event.

The Longhorns fielded one of the most talented teams in college last season. From the lockdown play of Thorpe Award winner Jahdae Barron to the near-flawless pass protection of Kelvin Banks Jr., Texas' 2024 season was a showcase of future NFL talent.

Texas LT Kelvin Banks declares for the 2025 NFL Draft - Burnt Orange Nation

More: Texas football's consistent worker, Jahdae Barron sets the right example for others

The Longhorns are about to experience a major talent drain in the upcoming NFL draft. Out of the 14 eligible Texas exes, some are considered to be first-round picks. Others will be drafted on the second day of the draft, while some prospects will have to wait for the later rounds to hear their name called.

Texas-exes Byron Murphy II, Xavier Worthy, T'Vondre Sweat and Adonai Mitchell were taken in the first two rounds of last year's draft. In the latest mock drafts, NFL reporters project quite a few Texas players to be taken early on in the draft.

Kelvin Banks Jr., Texas offensive lineman

Dec 21, 2024; Austin, Texas, USA; Texas Longhorns offensive lineman Kelvin Banks Jr. (78) against the Clemson Tigers during the CFP National playoff first round at Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium.

ESPN: 1st round, 10th overall to the Chicago Bears

"Williams took more sacks than any other quarterback in the NFL this past season (68). Banks has very good footwork and balance for a 320-pound player, and I believe his extensive experience (42 starts) will make for a smoother transition to the NFL," Field Yates said.

NFL.com: 1st round, 13th overall to the Miami Dolphins

"Nothing is more important for the Dolphins than protecting Tua Tagovailoa. Banks could do that at tackle or guard," Daniel Jeremiah wrote.

The Athletic: 1st round, 13th overall to the Miami Dolphins

"There will be teams that like Banks more as a guard than a tackle, though he probably could hang outside. Either way, the Dolphins have to find help for their offensive line, so Banks — who had dominant run-blocking stretches this season — would be a big help," Nick Baumgardner says.

PFF: 1st round, 10th overall to the Chicago Bears

"The Bears took a crucial first step in supporting quarterback Caleb Williams last year by using their additional 2024 first-round pick on a wide receiver. Now, they take the next step in building around their young quarterback by selecting offensive tackle Kelvin Banks to help keep him upright," PFF's Jordan Plocher wrote.

Jahdae Barron, Texas defensive back

Texas Longhorns defensive back Jahdae Barron (7) celebrates a turnover against Clemson Tigers in the first half of an NCAA College Football Playoffs first round game at Darrell K Royal Texas Memorial Stadium, Austin, Texas, Saturday, Dec. 21, 2024.

NFL.com: 1st round, 14th overall to the Indianapolis Colts

"I think you’ll see the buzz around Barron continue to grow. He possesses great quickness, instincts and ball skills," Jeremiah said.

The Athletic: 1st round, 13th overall to the Buffalo Bills

"Barron might not blow anyone away with his testing, but he has the potential to be this draft’s version of Brian Branch — a do-it-all defender who can make plays at safety, outside corner or in the slot, so long as you’ve got a plan for him," Baumgardner wrote.

PFF: 1st round, 24th overall to the Minnesota Vikings

"Barron is a versatile defensive back who started at outside cornerback, slot cornerback and safety in college. He would help the Vikings counter the NFC North's explosive passing offenses," Plocher said.

Matthew Golden, Texas wide receiver

Texas wide receiver Matthew Golden (2) scores a touchdown against Michigan defensive back Aamir Hall (12) during the first half at Michigan Stadium in Ann Arbor on Saturday, Sept. 7, 2024.

NFL.com: 1st round, 21st overall to Pittsburgh Steelers

"I don’t think the Steelers could go wrong drafting Golden or Ohio State’s Emeka Egbuka here," Jeremiah says.

The Athletic: 1st round, 29th overall to the Washington Commanders

"Golden exploded as Texas’ top WR this year, and the 6-foot, 200-pound burner will flirt with a 4.3-second 40-yard dash at the combine," Baumgardner wrote.

Texas football players selected in the second, third rounds

The Athletic finished three rounds of its mock draft, with a few more Texas players selected in those rounds. Here is where they landed.

Arizona Cardinals, 47th overall: Texas DT Alfred Collins
Los Angeles Chargers, 55th overall: Gunnar Helm, TE, Texas
Cleveland Browns, 67th overall: Cameron Williams, OT, Texas
Denver Broncos, 85th overall: Andrew Mukuba, S, Texas
Houston Texans 89th overall: Isaiah Bond, WR, Texas

Was this article helpful?

Yes