Two Texas Longhorns are expected to be selected in the first round of the upcoming 2024 NFL Draft, according to ESPN’s latest mock draft by Field Yates. This projection is a testament to the Longhorns’ success both on and off the field during the 2023 season, where they achieved a 12-2 record, clinched the Big 12 title, and narrowly missed advancing to the championship game.
The first Longhorn off the board in Yates’ mock draft is defensive tackle Byron Murphy II, projected to be selected 13th overall by the Las Vegas Raiders. Despite not being a primary need for the Raiders, Yates emphasizes Murphy’s exceptional performance in the 2023 season, highlighting his ability as a pocket compressor and run defender. Murphy’s impressive stats, including 5.0 sacks, make him a valuable addition to the Raiders’ defensive front.
Following Murphy, wide receiver Adoni Mitchell is forecasted to be chosen by the Kansas City Chiefs with the final pick of the first round, 20 picks later. Mitchell’s attributes, such as his smooth route-running, size, and ability to make plays down the field and in the red zone, make him an enticing prospect for the Chiefs. With 11 touchdowns and a 15.4 yards-per-catch average in the previous season, Mitchell is poised to bolster the Chiefs’ passing game alongside star quarterback Patrick Mahomes.
If both Murphy and Mitchell are indeed drafted in the first round, it would mark the first time since 2007 that the Longhorns have produced two first-round picks. This projection aligns with a previous ESPN rendition by Matt Miller, further underscoring the strength of Texas’ draft class.
