OL Hayden Conner of the Texas Longhorns declares for the NFL Draft

OL Hayden Conner of the Texas Longhorns Declares for the NFL Draft

In a move that sent ripples through the Texas Longhorns’ football program, offensive lineman Hayden Conner has declared for the 2025 NFL Draft. After three seasons of impactful play for the Longhorns, Conner’s decision marks the end of a significant chapter in Texas football and the beginning of his professional career. Known for his physicality, versatility, and leadership on the field, Conner’s departure will have a lasting impact on the Longhorns’ offensive line heading into the offseason.

Conner’s declaration is the latest in a series of high-profile departures from the program, as Texas continues to evolve under head coach Steve Sarkisian. While the Longhorns must now turn their attention to replacing one of their most consistent and dominant players, Conner’s decision raises questions about his future at the next level and the impact his absence will have on Texas’ offensive line.

This article will explore Conner’s career at Texas, the impact of his decision to declare for the NFL Draft, and what the Longhorns’ offensive line might look like without him in 2025.

Hayden Conner’s Texas Career: A Rising Star on the Offensive Line

Hayden Conner arrived at Texas as part of the highly touted 2022 recruiting class, a five-star prospect who was expected to make an immediate impact. By the time his sophomore season arrived in 2023, Conner had already earned a starting role on the offensive line and quickly solidified himself as one of the premier players on the unit.

A native of Katy, Texas, Conner’s recruitment was marked by his combination of size, strength, and agility—attributes that made him one of the most coveted offensive line prospects in the country. Standing at 6-foot-5 and weighing in at over 320 pounds, Conner has the ideal build for an offensive lineman in the NFL, combining brute force with surprising athleticism for his size.

Key Moments in Conner’s Career:

1. Freshman Season (2022): Although Conner didn’t start as a true freshman, he quickly earned a role as a backup and made an impact in key moments throughout the season. His first year was marked by his ability to contribute in multiple spots along the offensive line, showcasing his versatility—a trait that would become a defining characteristic of his career.
2. Sophomore Season (2023): Conner’s sophomore season saw him take over as a full-time starter at left guard, where he flourished. As a key figure in Texas’ offensive line, Conner played an essential role in the development of a much-improved running game, paving the way for standout performances from the Longhorns’ running backs. His ability to handle both pass protection and run blocking made him one of the top interior linemen in the Big 12, if not the country.
   • Game-Changing Blocks: Conner’s ability to drive defenders off the ball and create lanes for running back Jonathon Brooks and other Texas rushers was evident throughout the season. Against teams like Oklahoma and Kansas State, Conner’s physicality and discipline were on full display, contributing to some of Texas’ biggest offensive performances.
3. Junior Season (2024): As a junior, Conner was one of the most experienced and reliable members of an offensive line that helped propel the Longhorns to a College Football Playoff appearance. Despite being the focal point of many opposing defenses, Conner consistently proved himself as a top-tier lineman, combining strength and technique to protect quarterback Arch Manning and pave the way for the offense.
   • Consistency and Leadership: Conner’s leadership on the field became increasingly apparent in 2024. As one of the most experienced players on the offensive line, he helped mentor younger players, ensuring that the unit remained cohesive and effective despite the departures of several key veterans.

Accolades and Recognition:

• All-Big 12 Honors: Conner’s efforts were recognized by the Big 12, where he earned multiple All-Conference honors for his exceptional play.
• Preseason All-American Watch List: Heading into the 2024 season, Conner was widely regarded as one of the top interior linemen in the country, earning spots on several preseason All-American watch lists.

Why Conner Declared for the NFL Draft

Conner’s decision to declare for the NFL Draft is a significant one, but it was also widely expected. With a standout junior season in the rearview mirror and his stock continuing to rise, Conner is considered one of the top offensive line prospects for the 2025 draft.

Several factors likely influenced Conner’s decision:

1. NFL Readiness: After three seasons of high-level college football, Conner has developed into a player who is ready to compete at the highest level. His combination of size, strength, and technical ability makes him a prime candidate for the next level. Scouts have praised his run-blocking abilities, as well as his quickness and footwork in pass protection. These attributes make him a highly valuable prospect for NFL teams in need of a versatile, powerful interior lineman.
2. Draft Position: Based on his performance throughout his career, Conner is expected to be selected early in the draft—potentially in the first or second round. His physical tools, combined with his experience in big games, give him a compelling case as one of the top offensive linemen in the draft class. As a result, Conner may have felt it was the right time to make the jump to the professional ranks and maximize his earning potential.
3. Family Considerations: Players like Conner often have to weigh the opportunity to enter the NFL and potentially begin their professional careers. After three seasons at Texas, Conner may have felt that the time had come to take the next step and pursue his dream of playing in the NFL.
4. Program Trajectory: While Texas is continuing to build toward a championship-caliber program under head coach Steve Sarkisian, Conner may have recognized that his decision to declare would allow him to focus on his professional career and that further development at the collegiate level would not provide the same level of upside in terms of draft position.

The Impact of Conner’s Departure on Texas

Hayden Conner’s departure leaves a significant void on the Texas offensive line. As one of the most experienced and reliable players on the unit, Conner’s loss will be felt both on and off the field. The Longhorns now face the challenge of replacing a player who was a cornerstone of their offensive line and a leader in the locker room.

1. Offensive Line Depth: Conner’s departure leaves a major gap at left guard, a position that will need to be filled by a combination of returning players and potential incoming recruits. Texas will need to lean on its younger players to step up, but there is optimism within the program about the talent available. Players like Cole Hutson, who showed promise in limited action in 2024, could be next in line to fill Conner’s role.
2. Quarterback and Running Back Protection: Conner’s ability to protect quarterbacks and create running lanes was essential to Texas’ offensive success. As Arch Manning looks to take on a bigger role in 2025, the Longhorns will need to ensure that the offensive line continues to provide him with adequate protection. Similarly, Jonathon Brooks and other running backs will need similar support in the trenches to continue their success.
3. Leadership and Culture: Conner’s leadership will be a significant loss for the Longhorns. As one of the more vocal and respected members of the offensive line, Conner helped guide a unit that was often the backbone of the team. With his departure, Texas will need other veteran players, such as Christian Jones and Roshawn Johnson, to take on leadership roles to maintain cohesion and focus within the group.

Looking Ahead: The 2025 Texas Offensive Line

Texas will have a formidable challenge in replacing Conner, but the Longhorns have some solid options and promising young talent to fill the gap. Head coach Steve Sarkisian has made it clear that building a dominant offensive line is a key part of his vision for the future of the program. Several key returnees will look to take the next step, and Texas’ recruiting efforts will focus on strengthening the trenches.

Key questions heading into 2025 include:

• Who will step up to fill Conner’s shoes at left guard? Players like Cole Hutson and incoming recruits may compete for the starting spot.
• Will the offensive line continue to be a strength? The Longhorns have a solid base, but Conner’s absence leaves a significant gap that will need to be addressed.
• How will the development of Arch Manning be impacted by the changes on the offensive line? Manning, now firmly in control of the offense, will need the protection and support of an effective line to reach his potential.