Former Texas Longhorns Shine At NFL Combine
Wherever you look this week during the NFL Combine in Indianapolis, Indiana there is a former Texas Longhorn that is turning heads in one way or another.
Through the first two days, we have seen defensive linemen and linebackers as well as tight ends and defensive backs showcase their skills. We also have seen a handful of players interviewed by the media. To no surprise for any Texas fan who just witnessed the Longhorns' best season since 2009, the players who are at the combine and participating in the events are standing out in everything they have done.
Let's take a look at the players who have turned heads so far. It's worth noting that linebacker Jaylan Ford measured in at 6-foot-2, 240 pounds. He did not run the 40.
Feb 28, 2024; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Texas defensive lineman T'Vondre Sweat (DL25) speaks at a press conference at the NFL Scouting Combine at Indiana Convention Center. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports
Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports
T'Vondre Sweat, DL
On top of being a hilarious interview for being blunt about how big he is, and projecting he would run a 40-yard dash in the low fours, Sweat has actually been one of the biggest stories of the whole event. He posted a 5.27 40-yard dash, which when converted to someone who was 180 pounds comes out to around a 4.26 40. He did well in other drills that showed off his mobility, but did skip the bench press.
Texas DL Byron Murphy
USA TODAY
Byron Murphy, DL
For those who weren't familiar with Byron Murphy II's insane physique, this is the perfect sort of way to be introduced. He ran an equally impressive 40 at 4.88, showed off his power on the bags, and also got a compliment from Cameron Jordan who was watching him do the agility drill.
The projected first-rounder has only solidfied that ranking for himself.
Texas DB Ryan Watts
Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports
Ryan Watts, DB
Ryan Watts has plus size for a defensive back, but he also showcased his speed which was an underrated aspect of his game. He ran both of his 40s in the 4.5 range, and also took to social media to reveal he thinks he's faster. Watts also posted a 40.5-inch vertical and 10'5 broad jump.
He also got a chance to showcase his hands while going through a couple of different drills, as he showcased the abilty to come down with some tough throws.
Texas tight end Ja'Tavion Sanders
Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports
Ja'Tavion Sanders, TE
While the projected top tight end prospect Brock Bowers chose not to partake in the combine events, Texas tight end Ja'Tavion Sanders made the most of the opportunity to improve his stock. He has never been the fastest, but he did improve his 40 times dramatically after his first run was a 4.74, as he followed it up with a 4.69. As he has shown his whole career, Sanders showcased his reliable hands and ability to run after the catch. He is someone who is looking to work his way into being a solidified second-round pick.
