The anticipation is palpable as the NFL Combine kicks off this week, offering a golden opportunity for three Texas Longhorns to make waves and climb the 2026 NFL Draft boards. While the initial focus will be on measurements and off-field evaluations, the real excitement begins when these athletes hit the field.
Here's the schedule for the on-field workouts in Indianapolis:
Thursday, 2:00 PM CST:
- Kickers
- Defensive Linemen
- Linebackers
Friday, 2:00 PM CST:
- Tight Ends
- Defensive Backs
Saturday, 12:00 PM CST:
- Quarterbacks
- Wide Receivers
- Running Backs
- Offensive Linemen
Each player from Texas has a shot at boosting their draft prospects, but let's dive into three who could really turn heads with standout performances:
Taaffe has been catching some attention recently, thanks to his intelligence and pre-snap processing abilities. While he may not be the fastest in a straight line, his potential to excel in agility and explosion drills-like the shuttle and vertical/broad jump-could make him a standout in Indianapolis. If he posts impressive numbers, he might just become the talk of the town.
Campbell seems to be flying under the radar in pre-draft rankings. Though he might not crack the top five for offensive guards, a strong showing in the 3-cone and shuttle drills could propel him into the middle rounds. Known for his skills as a puller and gap/down blocker, demonstrating his movement abilities will be key to convincing scouts of his NFL potential.
Moore is an intriguing prospect, straddling the line between linebacker athleticism and edge rusher capabilities. While hybrid players might not hold the same allure as they once did, Moore's playmaking skills and impact on Texas' defense can't be overlooked. His performance in various drills is unpredictable, but if he shines, he could enjoy a significant boost in his draft stock.
As the Combine unfolds, these Longhorns have the chance to showcase their talents and redefine their draft narratives. It's a pivotal moment, and their performances could set the stage for an exciting draft journey.