The Texas Longhorns football program is experiencing a significant transition as several of its top-tier defensive ends have declared for the 2025 NFL Draft. This development is poised to impact the team’s defensive lineup and has been highlighted in recent NFL mock drafts.
**Vernon Broughton’s Departure**
Defensive tackle Vernon Broughton announced his decision to enter the 2025 NFL Draft on January 13, 2025. Over his collegiate career, Broughton played a pivotal role in the Longhorns’ defensive line, contributing to the team’s strong performance in the College Football Playoff. His departure marks a significant change for the Texas defense. ([si.com](https://www.si.com/college/texas/football/texas-longhorns-dt-vernon-broughton-declares-for-2025-nfl-draft-01jhgtfddped?utm_source=chatgpt.com))
**NFL Mock Draft Projections**
Recent NFL mock drafts have featured Texas defensive players prominently. Alfred Collins, a defensive lineman for the Longhorns, is projected as a potential Day 2 pick in the upcoming draft. His performance during the Senior Bowl has further solidified his status as a noteworthy prospect. ([catscratchreader.com](https://www.catscratchreader.com/2025/1/24/24350205/2025-nfl-draft-position-groups-breakdown-defensive-linemen?utm_source=chatgpt.com), [silverandblackpride.com](https://www.silverandblackpride.com/2025/1/28/24352954/raiders-nfl-draft-senior-bowl-alfred-collins?utm_source=chatgpt.com))
Additionally, the 2025 NFL Draft is anticipated to be defense-heavy, with several top picks expected to be defensive players. This trend underscores the competitive nature of the draft and the high regard for defensive talent, including that of Texas Longhorns players. ([sbnation.com](https://www.sbnation.com/nfl/2024/10/1/24259109/nfl-mock-draft-2025-colorado-shedeur-sanders-travis-hunter-first-round?utm_source=chatgpt.com))
**Impact on the Texas Longhorns**
The departure of key defensive players to the NFL represents a significant shift for the Texas Longhorns. The team will need to address these departures through recruitment and development to maintain its competitive edge in the upcoming seasons.
– [catscratchreader.com](https://www.catscratchreader.com/2025/1/24/24350205/2025-nfl-draft-position-groups-breakdown-defensive-linemen?utm_source=chatgpt.com)
– [silverandblackpride.com](https://www.silverandblackpride.com/2025/1/28/24352954/raiders-nfl-draft-senior-bowl-alfred-collins?utm_source=chatgpt.com)
– [sbnation.com](https://www.sbnation.com/nfl/2024/10/1/24259109/nfl-mock-draft-2025-colorado-shedeur-sanders-travis-hunter-first-round?utm_source=chatgpt.com)
