Football players from Texas who can raise their draft picks at the NFL combine

Football Players from Texas Who Can Raise Their Draft Stock at the NFL Combine

The NFL Scouting Combine is one of the most pivotal moments for college football players seeking to make a name for themselves before the NFL Draft. With NFL coaches, general managers, and scouts in attendance, athletes have a rare chance to showcase their skills in a controlled environment, participating in drills that test their speed, agility, strength, and overall athleticism. While on-field performance throughout the college football season is the most significant factor in a player’s draft position, a strong showing at the Combine can elevate a player’s status, possibly pushing them into the first or second round, or increasing their chances of being drafted higher than initially expected.

For players from Texas—one of the most talent-rich states in the country—the NFL Combine is an opportunity to represent their state and prove that they are ready to compete at the highest level. Over the years, Texas has produced a wealth of exceptional football talent, and this year is no exception. Several Texas-based players are heading into the NFL Combine with the chance to raise their draft stock through impressive performances in key drills.

In this article, we’ll explore some of the top football players from Texas who are entering the Combine with the potential to boost their draft stocks and what each player needs to do to stand out.

1. Bijan Robinson – RB, Texas

Bijan Robinson is arguably the most talked-about player from Texas entering the 2025 NFL Draft, and for good reason. The running back out of the University of Texas has been a force to be reckoned with during his college career, earning a reputation as one of the most dynamic and versatile running backs in recent years. After a remarkable season where he rushed for over 1,500 yards and 18 touchdowns in 2024, Robinson is considered one of the top players in this draft class, and his Combine performance could elevate him to even greater heights.

What He Needs to Do at the Combine:

Robinson’s Combine showing will likely be scrutinized closely, particularly in the 40-yard dash and agility drills. As one of the most complete running backs in recent memory, Robinson needs to demonstrate his elite speed, explosiveness, and change-of-direction ability. A sub-4.5-second 40-yard dash would likely solidify his place as one of the first running backs selected in the Draft. Furthermore, Robinson’s performance in the 3-cone drill and shuttle drills will give scouts further insight into his quickness and lateral movement—critical skills for a back who can change direction on a dime.

Why He Can Raise His Stock:

While Robinson is already considered a top prospect, a standout Combine performance could solidify his status as the first running back selected in the Draft, potentially pushing him into the top 10 picks. If he excels in drills, he could further separate himself from other running backs in the class, making him a true difference-maker at the NFL level.

2. Jaxon Smith-Njigba – WR, Texas (via transfer)

Jaxon Smith-Njigba, originally from Rockwall, Texas, played a key role in the Ohio State Buckeyes’ high-powered offense and is one of the top wide receiver prospects heading into the 2025 NFL Draft. After missing most of the 2024 season due to injury, Smith-Njigba’s Combine performance will be crucial in restoring confidence in his abilities and ensuring that he remains one of the top wide receivers in the class.

What He Needs to Do at the Combine:

For Smith-Njigba, the main thing he needs to show is his speed and agility. While his physical attributes are solid, he needs to demonstrate the quickness that made him a standout during his time at Ohio State. A strong showing in the 40-yard dash and the short shuttle drill would prove that he still has elite speed and can separate from defenders at the next level. Additionally, showcasing strong hands and route-running precision in position drills could be key in raising his stock.

Why He Can Raise His Stock:

While Jaxon Smith-Njigba’s college production speaks for itself, a strong performance at the Combine could reassure scouts about his full recovery from injury and confirm that he is back to full health. A fast 40-yard dash time, in the range of 4.4 seconds or lower, would go a long way in solidifying his first-round status and possibly pushing him higher in the rankings.

3. Devon Achane – RB, Texas A&M

Devon Achane was a standout running back at Texas A&M, known for his game-breaking speed and versatility. Over the course of his college career, Achane displayed a unique ability to both run between the tackles and break long runs to the outside. With NFL teams placing increasing value on speed and versatility in their running backs, Achane is poised to use the Combine to demonstrate his rare acceleration and explosiveness.

What He Needs to Do at the Combine:

Achane’s 40-yard dash will be the key to his Combine performance. As a player known for his breakaway speed, clocking in under 4.4 seconds could make him a household name in the draft world. Additionally, his agility and vision will be tested in the 3-cone drill, and showcasing his ability to catch passes out of the backfield in position drills will highlight his multifaceted game.

Why He Can Raise His Stock:

Achane is already viewed as one of the top running back prospects, but his speed could push him into the early rounds if he runs a blazing 40-yard dash. If he impresses in drills, he could even elevate his stock to be considered a first-round pick, particularly for a team looking for an explosive, versatile weapon out of the backfield.

4. Tyree Wilson – EDGE, Texas Tech

Tyree Wilson, the edge rusher from Texas Tech, has become one of the most talked-about defensive players heading into the 2025 NFL Draft. With an impressive frame at 6’6″ and 270 pounds, Wilson possesses the physical traits that NFL scouts dream about. His combination of size, strength, and athleticism make him a potential top-10 pick, and a strong performance at the Combine could cement that status.

What He Needs to Do at the Combine:

Wilson needs to show that he is not just a physical specimen but an explosive athlete capable of making an impact in the NFL. His 40-yard dash and vertical jump will give scouts an idea of his explosiveness, while his 3-cone drill and shuttle drills will demonstrate his agility and ability to change direction quickly. Wilson’s showing in the on-field position drills will also be crucial, as scouts will want to see if he has developed the pass-rushing moves to complement his raw physical ability.

Why He Can Raise His Stock:

Wilson is already one of the top edge rusher prospects, but a strong Combine showing could push him into the top 10 of the Draft. If he performs well in drills and demonstrates the ability to disrupt quarterbacks at the next level, he could be one of the first defensive players selected.

5. Brock Bowers – TE, Texas (via transfer)

While Brock Bowers is a highly touted tight end from the University of Georgia, he hails from the great state of Texas and is considered one of the most complete tight ends available in this year’s Draft. Bowers has already proven himself to be one of the most dynamic players in college football, and his Combine performance will be an opportunity to showcase the full range of his abilities.

What He Needs to Do at the Combine:

Bowers is already a strong prospect, but the Combine will provide an opportunity to demonstrate his athleticism, agility, and size. A 40-yard dash time in the low 4.5-second range would be impressive for a tight end his size. His performance in agility drills, including the 3-cone drill, will show off his lateral quickness and ability to separate from defenders, while his ability to catch passes and run routes will be on display during position drills.

Why He Can Raise His Stock:

A fast 40-yard dash and quickness in drills will solidify Bowers’ position as the top tight end prospect, possibly pushing him into the first round. With his ability to block and catch passes, he could be a significant asset to an NFL team, and his Combine performance will help further define his role at the next level.

6. Quentin Johnston – WR, TCU

Quentin Johnston is one of the most talented wide receivers to come out of Texas in recent years. A key player for TCU, Johnston’s combination of size (6’4″ and 215 pounds) and speed makes him an intriguing prospect. Known for his ability to make plays in both the short and deep passing game, Johnston is a big-bodied receiver with an impressive catch radius.

What He Needs to Do at the Combine:

Johnston needs to demonstrate his speed with a 40-yard dash time in the low 4.4-second range. As a player with a size advantage over many of his peers, his ability to create separation and display fluid route running will be key. The 3-cone drill will also be a crucial measure of his agility.

Why He Can Raise His Stock:

A strong performance at the Combine could solidify Johnston’s place as a first-round pick. His size and physicality make him a matchup nightmare, and his speed, if showcased at the Combine, could make him one of the most coveted wide receivers in the draft.