In his latest 2025 NFL Mock Draft, NFL Network’s Daniel Jeremiah projects three standout Texas Longhorns to be selected in the first round, highlighting the program’s exceptional talent development. Among these projections is wide receiver Matthew Golden, whose anticipated selection underscores the Longhorns’ offensive prowess.
Matthew Golden: A Rising Star
Jeremiah forecasts that the Pittsburgh Steelers will select wide receiver Matthew Golden with the 21st overall pick. Golden, a junior who transferred to Texas from Houston in 2024, made an immediate impact in his lone season with the Longhorns. Standing at 6 feet tall and weighing 195 pounds, the Houston native showcased his skills during Texas’s impressive run to the College Football Playoff semifinals.
Golden’s standout performances came at critical moments. In the SEC Championship Game against Georgia, he recorded eight receptions for 162 yards. He followed this with a stellar showing in the Peach Bowl against Arizona State, amassing seven catches for 149 yards and a touchdown. These clutch performances not only elevated his draft stock but also demonstrated his ability to perform under pressure.
Jeremiah’s analysis emphasizes Golden’s professional route-running, reliable hands, and toughness—traits that make him an ideal fit for the Steelers’ offensive scheme. With Pittsburgh potentially seeking to bolster their receiving corps, Golden’s addition could provide quarterback Kenny Pickett with a dependable target, enhancing the team’s aerial attack.
Jahdae Barron: Defensive Backbone
Another Longhorn projected to make a first-round entrance is cornerback Jahdae Barron. Jeremiah envisions the Cincinnati Bengals selecting Barron with the 17th overall pick. Barron, an All-American cornerback, led the SEC with five interceptions in his final collegiate season. His defensive stats are further bolstered by 67 tackles, 11 passes defended, and a sack, underscoring his versatility and playmaking abilities.
Standing at 5-foot-11, Barron’s coverage skills have been pivotal to Texas’s defensive success. His ability to read the quarterback and anticipate plays makes him a valuable asset in any secondary. For the Bengals, who struggled defensively in the 2024 season, Barron’s inclusion could address critical gaps in their pass defense, providing a much-needed boost to their secondary unit.
Kelvin Banks Jr.: Anchoring the Offensive Line
Jeremiah also projects offensive tackle Kelvin Banks Jr. to be a first-round selection, with the San Francisco 49ers picking him at the 11th spot. Banks, a junior, has been a cornerstone of the Longhorns’ offensive line. His performance has not only protected the quarterback but also facilitated a robust running game.
At 6-foot-4 and 315 pounds, Banks possesses the ideal physique and agility for an NFL offensive tackle. His quick footwork and strong hands make him adept at handling edge rushers, while his football intelligence allows him to make rapid adjustments against complex defensive schemes. For the 49ers, who are preparing for the eventual retirement of veteran tackle Trent Williams, Banks offers a seamless transition and a reliable protector for their quarterback.
Texas Longhorns’ Legacy of Excellence
The projection of three Longhorns in the first round of the 2025 NFL Draft is a testament to the University of Texas’s commitment to cultivating top-tier talent. Under the guidance of head coach Steve Sarkisian, the program has seen a resurgence, blending experienced transfers with homegrown athletes to create a formidable team.
This anticipated draft success reflects the Longhorns’ strategic focus on player development, rigorous training programs, and a culture that emphasizes excellence both on and off the field. The seamless integration of players like Golden, who transferred and immediately made significant contributions, showcases the program’s adaptability and commitment to maximizing each athlete’s potential.
Implications for the NFL
The infusion of talent from Texas is poised to make a significant impact on the NFL landscape. Players like Golden, Barron, and Banks bring not only their athletic prowess but also a culture of discipline and resilience ingrained during their tenure at Texas.
For teams like the Steelers, Bengals, and 49ers, these players address specific needs and have the potential to become cornerstone pieces for their respective franchises. Their readiness to transition to the professional level speaks volumes about the quality of coaching and competition they experienced in college.
The Broader Impact on Texas Football
The presence of three first-round picks in the NFL Draft further solidifies Texas’s reputation as a powerhouse program. With head coach Steve Sarkisian at the helm, the Longhorns have not only reestablished themselves as a top-tier college football program but have also proven to be a prime destination for players aspiring to reach the NFL.
Texas’s recent success in player development is likely to have a ripple effect on recruiting. High school prospects often look to programs that consistently send players to the NFL, and with three first-round selections projected, the Longhorns will continue to attract elite talent. Young athletes want to play in systems that prepare them for the next level, and Texas’s ability to mold NFL-ready players will be a major selling point on the recruiting trail.
Matthew Golden’s Fit in Pittsburgh
For Matthew Golden, the opportunity to join the Pittsburgh Steelers would be an ideal scenario. Pittsburgh has a rich history of developing wide receivers, with names like Hines Ward, Antonio Brown, and most recently, George Pickens, flourishing within their system. Golden’s combination of speed, route-running ability, and contested-catch prowess would give the Steelers a dynamic weapon in their passing game.
Additionally, Pittsburgh has struggled to find consistency on offense in recent years. With quarterback Kenny Pickett still developing, surrounding him with playmakers is crucial. Golden could emerge as a go-to target, bringing versatility to an offense that needs explosiveness. His ability to stretch the field while also making tough catches over the middle makes him a perfect fit for the Steelers’ offensive scheme.
Jahdae Barron’s Role in Cincinnati’s Defense
Jahdae Barron landing in Cincinnati could be a game-changer for the Bengals’ secondary. The Bengals have an exciting young core on both sides of the ball, but their pass defense struggled at times during the 2024 season. Adding a ball-hawking corner like Barron would immediately elevate their ability to force turnovers and shut down opposing passing attacks.
Barron’s instincts and physicality allow him to excel in man coverage while also being a reliable tackler in run support. His ability to diagnose plays quickly makes him a strong fit for Cincinnati’s defensive scheme. Given that the AFC is stacked with elite quarterbacks such as Patrick Mahomes, Josh Allen, and Lamar Jackson, having a shutdown cornerback like Barron would be a significant boost for the Bengals’ defense.
Kelvin Banks Jr. as the Future of San Francisco’s Offensive Line
San Francisco’s offensive line has long been one of the best in the NFL, thanks to the dominance of Trent Williams. However, Williams is entering the latter stage of his career, and the 49ers must begin planning for the future. Kelvin Banks Jr. could be the perfect successor.
Banks is an exceptional athlete for his size, possessing quick feet and excellent hand placement. His ability to handle both speed and power rushers makes him an ideal fit in San Francisco’s zone-blocking scheme. The 49ers prioritize offensive linemen who can move well in space, and Banks fits that mold perfectly.
Additionally, having the opportunity to learn under Trent Williams for a season or two would be invaluable for Banks. The transition from college to the NFL can be challenging for offensive linemen, but with proper mentorship, Banks could become an elite left tackle for years to come.
The Longhorns’ Draft Resurgence
Texas producing multiple first-round picks is a significant milestone in the program’s resurgence. Over the past decade, the Longhorns have not consistently developed first-round talent, which contributed to their struggles in competing with powerhouse programs like Alabama, Georgia, and Ohio State. However, with three projected first-rounders in 2025, Texas is proving that it belongs among the nation’s elite.
This resurgence can be attributed to Sarkisian’s recruiting strategy and his ability to develop players for the next level. His offensive-minded approach has helped players like Golden flourish, while defensive standouts like Barron have benefited from the program’s emphasis on fundamentals and technique. Additionally, the strength and conditioning program has played a vital role in preparing linemen like Banks to dominate in the trenches.
Looking Ahead: Who’s Next for Texas?
With the 2025 NFL Draft expected to be a major success for Texas, the question now becomes: who will be the next Longhorns to make the leap to the NFL? The program continues to bring in top-tier talent, and several underclassmen could emerge as future first-round selections.
Quarterback Arch Manning, the highly touted recruit and nephew of NFL legends Peyton and Eli Manning, is expected to take over the starting job at Texas in 2025. If he lives up to expectations, he could be a future first-round pick. Additionally, running back Cedric Baxter Jr. and defensive lineman Anthony Hill Jr. are among the players who could hear their names called early in the 2026 draft.
Texas’s ability to maintain this level of success in developing NFL talent will be key in sustaining its status as a national powerhouse. The program has the facilities, coaching staff, and recruiting pipeline to continue producing elite players, and the 2025 draft could mark the beginning of a new era for Longhorn football.