Three Longhorns Picked in Round 1 of Latest Mel Kiper ESPN NFL Mock Draft
For the first time in quite some time, the Texas Longhorns are set to be one of the most well-represented teams in the upcoming NFL Draft.
In fact, after a dominant showing at the NFL Combine in Indianapolis, the Longhorns could have multiple players going in the first round for the first time since 2007, when Michael Griffin and Aaron Ross went No. 19 to the Titans and No. 20 to the Giants, respectively.
And the latest rendition of his mock draft, ESPN NFL Draft expert Mel Kiper Jr. has three Horns going in the first round round alone next month - including one player who he projects to be a replacement for a future Hall of Famer.
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No. 19 Los Angeles Rams - Byron Murphy
Following Aaron Donald's retirement announcement, the Los Angeles Rams find themselves in need of a defensive tackle, a position that wasn't previously a priority before free agency. With Donald's departure, the Rams must now focus on filling the significant void left by the future Hall of Famer.
Byron Murphy II, out of Texas, emerges as a compelling option in this scenario. Standing at 6-foot-1 and weighing 297 pounds, Murphy possesses the ideal physique for an interior pass-rusher, reminiscent of Aaron Donald's build. Kiper doesn't anticipate Murphy achieving perennial All-Pro status, but believes he exhibits intriguing potential at the position.
His impressive stats, including five sacks and 33 pressures last season, further underscore his value as a disruptive force on the defensive line. Considering these factors, Murphy appears to be a natural fit for the Rams. However, it's worth noting that the Rams haven't selected in the first round since 2016, leaving the possibility open for a trade down.
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No. 26 Tampa Bay Buccaneers Xavier Worthy
Kiper suggests that the Buccaneers are set to maintain their success from 2023 with key players like quarterback Baker Mayfield, wide receiver Mike Evans, and linebacker Lavonte David returning. Despite salary cap challenges, GM Jason Licht has managed the situation well, positioning the team to compete strongly in the NFC South alongside an improved Atlanta squad.
Looking at draft options, Kiper sees an opportunity for the Buccaneers to elevate their offense by selecting a dynamic third wide receiver who can stretch the field.
Texas Longhorns' Xavier Worthy emerges as a standout choice for this role. Despite his smaller stature at 5-foot-11 and 165 pounds, Worthy brings exceptional speed and playmaking ability to the table, posing a threat to opposing defenses.
With 26 touchdowns over three college seasons, Worthy has proven his knack for making explosive plays. Adding Worthy to the roster could enhance Mayfield's yards-per-attempt average and capitalize on his ability to outrun defenders on crossing routes.
No. 32 Kansas City Chiefs Adonai Mitchell
Kiper underscores the Kansas City Chiefs' ongoing need to fortify their receiving corps despite the addition of Marquise Brown in free agency.
Highlighting Adonai Mitchell as a promising prospect from Texas, Kiper suggests he could serve as an excellent complement to Brown and Rashee Rice. Mitchell's standout combine performance, featuring a 4.34-second 40-yard dash and an impressive 11-foot-4 broad jump, showcases his exceptional athleticism.
Moreover, his reliable hands, evidenced by his 11 touchdown receptions last season, make him a valuable asset for the Chiefs' offense. With his ability to evade defenders after the catch, Mitchell emerges as a dynamic playmaker.
The 2024 NFL Draft, which is just a little over a month away, is set to take place from April 25 to April 27 in Detroit.