Recap of the Texas Longhorns Pro Day: Sayings, 40-Yard Moments, and Lessons

The Texas Longhorns’ Pro Day brought together NFL scouts, coaches, and executives to evaluate some of the program’s top prospects ahead of the 2024 NFL Draft. Held at the Longhorns’ indoor practice facility, the event featured standout performances, intriguing remarks from key players, and plenty of takeaways for both Texas fans and NFL decision-makers.

From impressive 40-yard dash times to memorable quotes from players and coaches, here’s a full breakdown of what transpired at Pro Day and what it means for the Longhorns heading into the draft.

Top Performers and Notable 40-Yard Dash Times

The 40-yard dash is always one of the biggest highlights of any Pro Day, and this year was no exception for the Longhorns.

Xavier Worthy Steals the Show

• Official Time: 4.29 seconds (Unofficial: 4.27)
• Reaction: Scouts raved about Worthy’s burst and top-end speed.
• Impact: Solidified himself as one of the fastest receivers in the draft class.

After already impressing at the NFL Combine with a record-setting 4.21-second 40-yard dash, Worthy continued to showcase his elite speed at Pro Day. While he didn’t quite match his Combine mark, his speed remains a major selling point for teams in need of a deep-threat receiver.

Ja’Tavion Sanders Proves His Versatility

• 40-Yard Dash: 4.64 seconds
• Bench Press: 21 reps at 225 lbs
• Vertical Jump: 36.5 inches
• Key Takeaway: Sanders showed that he’s not just an athletic tight end but a strong, physical presence who can block effectively.

Sanders’ performance highlighted his ability to be an every-down tight end at the next level. NFL teams looking for a playmaker who can work the middle of the field and be a red-zone target took notice.

Jaylan Ford Boosts His Draft Stock

• 40-Yard Dash: 4.72 seconds
• 3-Cone Drill: 7.05 seconds
• Broad Jump: 10 feet, 1 inch
• Key Takeaway: Ford’s agility and instincts make him a solid middle-round linebacker option.

Ford’s performance emphasized his quick reaction time and fluid movement in space, which could translate well to a rotational linebacker role in the NFL.

Memorable Quotes from Pro Day

Throughout the event, Texas players and coaches shared insights that resonated with scouts and media alike. Here are some of the best quotes from Pro Day:

• Xavier Worthy on His Speed: “I don’t think I’ve even hit my top speed yet. I’ve got another gear.”
• Ja’Tavion Sanders on Proving Himself: “A lot of people think I’m just a receiver at tight end. I love blocking. I love being physical.”
• Head Coach Steve Sarkisian on NFL-Ready Talent: “These guys have been preparing for this moment since they stepped foot on campus. They’re built for the next level.”
• Jaylan Ford on His Mentality: “I bring leadership and energy to every snap. I play with a chip on my shoulder.”

These remarks not only showcased the players’ confidence but also helped reinforce their readiness for the transition to the NFL.

Key Lessons from Texas Pro Day

1. Texas is Producing NFL-Ready Talent

The performances at Pro Day reinforced the notion that Texas is once again developing high-level NFL prospects. Players like Worthy, Sanders, and Ford demonstrated why the Longhorns have become a destination for top recruits looking to make it to the pros.

2. Speed and Versatility Are in High Demand

NFL teams prioritize speed, and Worthy’s elite acceleration is a rare asset that could make him a first-round selection. Meanwhile, Sanders’ ability to contribute as both a pass-catcher and blocker gives him value as a multi-dimensional tight end.

3. The Texas Defense Has NFL-Caliber Athletes

Players like Ford showed that the Longhorns’ defensive talent isn’t just system-based—it translates to the next level. His instincts and athleticism will make him an intriguing prospect for teams in need of linebacker depth.

Final Thoughts

The Texas Longhorns’ Pro Day was a major success, with key players boosting their draft stock and making strong cases for their place at the next level. With Xavier Worthy’s blazing speed, Ja’Tavion Sanders’ all-around skill set, and Jaylan Ford’s defensive versatility, Texas once again showed that it is a pipeline for NFL talent.

As the draft approaches, expect several Longhorns to hear their names called, with Pro Day performances serving as an important factor in their final evaluations. The NFL world is officially on notice: Texas football is back in the spotlight, and its top prospects are ready to shine on Sundays.