In Super Bowl LIX, three former Texas Longhorns secure their spots.
Super Bowl LIX is shaping up to be a memorable contest for many reasons. As the NFL’s biggest game of the year approaches, fans from across the country are eagerly awaiting the matchup of the two best teams in the league. However, for many, the game holds even greater significance. Among the players suiting up for the highly anticipated Super Bowl, three former Texas Longhorns have earned their place on the field, making this an especially exciting moment for Longhorns fans.
These three former Longhorns, who have been integral parts of their respective teams throughout the season, will have the chance to showcase their talents on the sport’s grandest stage. As Texas continues to be one of the most prominent programs in college football, it is a point of pride to see these alumni continue to shine in the NFL and reach such heights.
In this piece, we’ll break down the journey of each former Texas player making their Super Bowl debut (or return) in Super Bowl LIX, explore their careers, and highlight how their paths to the NFL and success have impacted their teams and the Texas Longhorns community.
1. Sam Ehlinger – Quarterback, Indianapolis Colts
Arguably the most unexpected yet inspirational journey to Super Bowl LIX comes from Sam Ehlinger, the former Texas Longhorns quarterback. Ehlinger had a standout college career, leading the Longhorns to a host of impressive victories, including a memorable Sugar Bowl win over Georgia in 2019. After being drafted by the Indianapolis Colts, Ehlinger’s transition to the NFL has been filled with ups and downs, but he has solidified himself as a key contributor to the Colts’ success.
Ehlinger was known for his leadership and grit at Texas, qualities that have translated well into his role with the Colts. After spending his rookie season as a backup, Ehlinger showed flashes of brilliance and earned a place on the roster for Super Bowl LIX. His ability to step up when needed, particularly in the playoffs, has made him a fan favorite in Indianapolis.
The Texas Legacy
Ehlinger’s journey is a testament to the strength of the Texas Longhorns’ quarterback program. Throughout his career at Texas, he was known for his strong arm, ability to read defenses, and physical running style that earned him comparisons to some of the NFL’s best quarterbacks. His leadership abilities were also praised by teammates and coaches alike, with Ehlinger being recognized for his unwavering dedication to improving himself and his team.
Though his role in the Super Bowl will not likely feature him as the starting quarterback, his inclusion on the roster is a victory for Texas football and its long history of producing professional-level quarterbacks. Ehlinger’s presence in the Super Bowl is a reminder that success in college football can pave the way for a bright NFL future.
2. Derrick Johnson – Linebacker, Kansas City Chiefs
No player from the Texas Longhorns is more synonymous with excellence at the linebacker position than Derrick Johnson. As one of the most dominant linebackers in college football history, Johnson established himself as a cornerstone of the Texas Longhorns defense during his college days and was a first-round pick for the Kansas City Chiefs in the 2005 NFL Draft.
Now, in Super Bowl LIX, Derrick Johnson finds himself on the roster for a second consecutive Super Bowl appearance. After a standout career with the Chiefs, Johnson has continued to play an important role in the defense, contributing to the Chiefs’ success on their way to the big game.
The Texas Legacy
Derrick Johnson was the heart and soul of the Texas defense during his time with the Longhorns. He became a two-time All-American and was an integral part of Texas’ success, including their 2005 National Championship victory. His leadership on and off the field was instrumental in transforming Texas’ defense into one of the best units in the country.
Johnson’s NFL career has been equally impressive. He became the all-time leading tackler in franchise history for the Chiefs and was a dominant force in the middle of their defense. His ability to read plays, deliver hard hits, and create turnovers made him one of the league’s premier linebackers during his career.
In Super Bowl LIX, Johnson is expected to bring his leadership, experience, and defensive prowess to the field. Whether starting or contributing in key moments, his veteran presence on the Chiefs’ defense will be a critical asset. His involvement in this Super Bowl is a testament to his longevity and continued excellence, both as a Texas Longhorn and an NFL player.
3. Quandre Diggs – Cornerback, Seattle Seahawks
The third former Texas Longhorns player making his mark in Super Bowl LIX is Quandre Diggs, a cornerback for the Seattle Seahawks. Diggs has had a stellar career in the NFL, transforming from a versatile defensive back at Texas into one of the league’s top cornerbacks. His ability to lock down receivers and make crucial interceptions has earned him a spot in the Seahawks’ starting lineup for the big game.
While at Texas, Diggs was known for his ball-hawking skills and his ability to read quarterbacks. He was instrumental in Texas’ secondary during his college years, and his development into an NFL-caliber cornerback was one of the most promising success stories for the Texas defense.
The Texas Legacy
Quandre Diggs’ journey from Texas to the NFL exemplifies the talent that the Longhorns’ defensive backs consistently produce. Diggs played a key role in the secondary during his time at Texas, demonstrating a rare combination of speed, anticipation, and physicality. His ability to disrupt passing games made him one of the top cornerbacks in the country, and his playmaking ability earned him an early draft selection in the 2015 NFL Draft.
In the NFL, Diggs has continued to prove himself as a ball hawk. He’s made numerous game-changing plays, including interceptions, pass breakups, and forced fumbles, becoming a leader in the Seahawks’ defense. His presence in the Super Bowl will be crucial for Seattle, especially in defending against the high-powered offenses they may face. Diggs’ leadership and his ability to perform in high-pressure situations will be invaluable assets for the Seahawks in Super Bowl LIX.
Super Bowl LIX: A Tribute to Texas Football
The fact that these three former Texas Longhorns—Sam Ehlinger, Derrick Johnson, and Quandre Diggs—will all be taking part in Super Bowl LIX speaks volumes about the program’s sustained success in producing elite athletes. Their presence in the game is a direct reflection of the excellence and tradition that Texas football has instilled in its players, preparing them to perform at the highest level on the grandest stage.
For Texas fans, Super Bowl LIX represents more than just an exciting match-up between the two best teams in the NFL. It serves as a reminder of the lasting impact that Texas football has on the sport. The program’s ability to produce talent that transitions successfully into the NFL speaks to the strength of the coaching, the competition, and the culture instilled in every player who steps onto the field for the Longhorns.
A Promising Future for Texas Alumni in the NFL
As the Super Bowl approaches, the three Texas alumni involved in the game are not only looking to bring home a championship but also to add to the legacy of the Texas Longhorns football program in the NFL. Their accomplishments in the league provide inspiration for future generations of Longhorns who will look to follow in their footsteps.
For Ehlinger, this Super Bowl appearance could mark the start of an exciting career, possibly paving the way for a more significant role in the coming seasons. For Derrick Johnson, the Super Bowl marks yet another career achievement in an already decorated journey, while Quandre Diggs continues to solidify his status as one of the premier cornerbacks in the NFL.
As these former Longhorns take the field in Super Bowl LIX, the Texas community will be cheering them on, proud of the incredible path each of them has taken. Their success is a testament to the legacy of the Texas Longhorns football program and a reminder that, no matter where they go, the spirit of Texas football continues to shine in the NFL’s biggest moments.
