Texas has seen a surge in NFL Draft talent under Steve Sarkisian, with rising prospects showcasing the program’s revitalized success.

The University of Texas has long been recognized as one of college football’s premier programs, with a rich history of success. From winning national championships to producing countless NFL stars, the Longhorns have had a storied legacy. However, in recent years, the program experienced a period of stagnation, particularly in terms of NFL Draft production. That all changed when Steve Sarkisian took over as the head coach in 2021.

Since Sarkisian’s arrival, Texas has seen a remarkable resurgence in its NFL Draft output, thanks in no small part to the revitalization of both the team’s talent pool and the coaching staff. Under his leadership, Texas has made significant strides in recruiting, player development, and overall team performance. This success has translated into increased representation at the NFL Draft, as former Longhorns are now once again a regular presence in the league’s annual selection process.

In this article, we will explore how Steve Sarkisian has revitalized Texas football, leading to a surge in NFL Draft talent. We’ll also examine the factors behind this success, the key players that have been drafted under his tenure, and what the future holds for Texas as it continues to develop top-tier talent for the NFL.

Steve Sarkisian: A Coaching Philosopher Focused on Offense and Player Development

Before delving into Texas’s NFL Draft resurgence, it’s important to understand Steve Sarkisian’s coaching philosophy and how it has influenced the program’s trajectory. Sarkisian’s reputation as one of the top offensive minds in college football is well-earned. Prior to taking the head coaching job at Texas, he served as the offensive coordinator at Alabama, where he helped develop one of the most potent offenses in college football history under Nick Saban. His experience at Alabama, combined with his time as head coach at Washington and USC, equipped him with the knowledge and tools to revitalize Texas football.

At Texas, Sarkisian has emphasized a dynamic, high-powered offensive scheme that includes a pro-style passing attack paired with a strong running game. His approach has placed a premium on quarterback development, wide receiver talent, and a strong offensive line, while also ensuring that the team is well-prepared defensively. Sarkisian’s offensive system has not only elevated the team’s performance on the field but also helped showcase the individual talents of Texas players, particularly those in skill positions, who have become enticing prospects for the NFL.

Another key aspect of Sarkisian’s philosophy is player development. While recruiting elite talent is essential, Sarkisian has focused on developing that talent into NFL-ready athletes. His coaching staff works tirelessly to ensure that players improve their fundamentals, grow their football IQ, and maximize their physical potential. As a result, players under his watch are better prepared to succeed in the highly competitive world of professional football.

Recruitment and Talent Development: Building a Pipeline to the NFL

One of the primary factors behind the surge in NFL Draft talent at Texas is Steve Sarkisian’s emphasis on recruitment and talent development. Upon arriving at Texas, Sarkisian immediately set out to recruit top-tier high school athletes from across the country. His recruiting strategy was two-fold: first, he focused on identifying the best high school talent in Texas, and second, he expanded the recruiting footprint to national levels, particularly in states with a strong tradition of producing elite football players, such as California, Florida, and Georgia.

Sarkisian and his staff have shown a knack for identifying players who possess the physical and mental tools to succeed at the next level. Texas’s recruiting classes have improved significantly since Sarkisian’s arrival, attracting blue-chip prospects who fit the program’s needs both offensively and defensively. Players like quarterback Quinn Ewers, wide receiver Xavier Worthy, and defensive lineman Byron Murphy are examples of recruits who fit into Sarkisian’s system and have the potential to make an immediate impact in the NFL.

Moreover, Sarkisian has worked to instill a strong development program at Texas. While many programs focus on recruiting elite players, Texas has placed a special emphasis on making sure those players are well-prepared to transition into professional football. This includes improving their skills in specific positions, developing leadership qualities, and learning the mental aspects of the game that are crucial to success at the next level.

Key Players Who Have Shined Under Sarkisian and Been Drafted

Several players have taken advantage of Sarkisian’s system and developed into NFL Draft prospects under his leadership. Here are some key examples of Longhorns who have made their mark under Sarkisian and subsequently been selected in the NFL Draft:

1. Bijan Robinson (RB)

Bijan Robinson, one of the most dynamic running backs in college football, is arguably the crown jewel of Texas’s resurgence under Sarkisian. Robinson’s skills were immediately apparent when he arrived at Texas, and under Sarkisian, he was able to flourish. Known for his exceptional vision, quickness, power, and ability to catch passes out of the backfield, Robinson was one of the most electrifying players in the country.

In 2025, Robinson was selected as a top pick in the NFL Draft, solidifying Texas’s reputation for producing elite talent. Sarkisian’s offense showcased Robinson’s abilities, helping him accumulate impressive rushing yards and receiving stats that made him an attractive prospect for NFL teams. Robinson’s success is a testament to the power of Sarkisian’s system and player development.

2. Xavier Worthy (WR)

Xavier Worthy, Texas’s star wide receiver, has been another standout under Sarkisian. Worthy’s incredible speed, agility, and ability to stretch the field made him one of the most dangerous weapons in college football. Sarkisian’s offensive system allowed Worthy to showcase his deep-threat capabilities, and his performances on the field earned him recognition as one of the top wide receiver prospects in college football.

Worthy’s strong performances on the big stage during his time at Texas cemented his status as an NFL Draft prospect. Sarkisian’s ability to develop wide receivers into high-level professionals is evident in Worthy’s rise, as he was selected by an NFL team that saw his potential as a future star.

3. Keondre Coburn (DT)

Keondre Coburn, a powerful defensive tackle for the Longhorns, is another player who benefited from Sarkisian’s leadership. Although Coburn played on the defensive side of the ball, Sarkisian’s overall approach to team development made sure that players like him received the attention and coaching needed to develop into future NFL stars. Coburn’s size, strength, and disruptive nature on the defensive line were vital to Texas’s defensive success, and his performance earned him a spot in the 2025 NFL Draft.

4. Jerrin Thompson (S)

Jerrin Thompson, a versatile safety, is yet another example of how Sarkisian has helped develop players who go on to play at the next level. Thompson’s ability to cover ground and his intelligence in the secondary made him an invaluable asset to Texas’s defense. As a result, Thompson’s impressive play during his tenure at Texas led to his selection in the NFL Draft, adding another name to the growing list of Texas players making an impact in the pros.

The Future: Building a Sustainable NFL Draft Pipeline

As Texas continues to see increased NFL Draft representation under Steve Sarkisian, the program is positioning itself to become a perennial powerhouse in terms of producing NFL talent. Sarkisian’s recruiting efforts show no signs of slowing down, and as the Longhorns continue to develop young talent, more players are expected to emerge as NFL prospects.

One of the exciting things about Sarkisian’s approach is that it isn’t just about one or two players. His coaching staff has developed a comprehensive strategy that supports the growth of every position on the team. From quarterbacks to offensive linemen to defensive backs, Texas is building a complete program that can produce top-tier talent across the board.

Sarkisian’s success in the NFL Draft is a sign of the program’s revitalization and serves as a strong signal that Texas football is back on the national stage. As the Longhorns continue to recruit top talent and develop it into professional-caliber athletes, Texas will continue to be a significant player in the future of the NFL Draft.