Texas football: 5 Longhorns to watch when the 2026 NFL Draft begins Thursday

**Anthony Hill Jr., linebacker**

Hill Jr., a three-year starter who left Texas after his junior season, currently projects as a first- or second-round pick Friday by ESPN, and ESPN draft analyst Mel Kiper Jr. ranks him as the third best off-ball linebacker in the draft. He will likely be the first Longhorn taken.

**Malik Muhammad, cornerback**

Muhammad is currently projected as the last pick in the second round to Super Bowl champion Seattle, according to Kiper. Muhammad has been rising up the draft boards and will likely get picked Friday MORE: Steve Sarkisian puts Texas walk-on Rett Andersen on scholarship MORE: Arch Manning makes a few tosses, WRs stand out at Texas' last spring practice

**Jack Endries, tight end**

Another riser on the boards after adding postseason weight while retaining his speed, Endries rates as the 117th overall prospect on ESPN’s draft rankings and could go as early as Friday’s third round to a team that needs a pass-catching tight end.

**Trey Moore, edge/linebacker**

Moore enjoyed a strong showing during Texas’s pro day, and his measurables make up for a lack of heavy production in two seasons at Texas. He’s currently listed as the 150th best prospect by ESPN and could go early Saturday, which includes rounds 4-7.

**Michael Taaffe, safety**

The 174th overall prospect on ESPN’s latest rankings, Taaffe could go as high as the fifth round Saturday because of his versatility and ability to contribute immediately on special teams.