The NFL Draft declaration window has passed, and the transfer portal is now closed. Judging from the remaining roster, the Longhorns did well in keeping players from going elsewhere.

Those who were going pro early couldn’t be stopped, like quarterback Quinn Ewers, left tackle Kelvin Banks Jr. and receiver Matthew Golden. As much as the Horns would like to have them back, they all moved on for various reasons.

There were other key players who have eligibility remaining. They could have jumped ship and transferred for a bigger NIL paycheck somewhere else. But they’re choosing to stay with the Longhorns in 2025, a team that should be led by quarterback Arch Manning and linebacker Anthony Hill Jr.

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Here’s a look at some key players who chose to stay at Texas.

DJ Campbell, Guard

Campbell will be the only returning starter on the offensive line next season. Offensive line coach Kyle Flood will put Campbell next to Trevor Goosby and Cole Hutson, two players who saw extensive time as backups in 2024. Campbell goes into his senior season as the unit leader just on experience alone.

DeAndre Moore, Receiver

Moore probably had multiple teams whispering — or tampering — in his ear, telling him to jump over the fence where the grass is greener. Moore had seven touchdown catches last season, production that any team would covet.

Ryan Wingo, Receiver

Just like Moore, Wingo is another talented receiver who could’ve been lured elsewhere by a bigger paycheck. Wingo had a terrific freshman season, making 29 catches for 472 yards and two touchdowns. Both Wingo and Moore figure to be major targets for Manning in 2025.

Trey Moore, Defensive End

When players transfer up from smaller schools, it’s unclear what kind of impact they can make. Moore transferred from UTSA and finished third in sacks (6.5) and fourth tackles for loss (10.5). He becomes an important part of the defensive line configuration next season along with talented freshman Colin Simmons.

Malik Muhammad, Cornerback

Muhammad was clearly torn, as he removed Texas photos from his social media for a brief time this week. Everybody wants to be shown some love, and in today’s college football world, that means NIL money. Muhammad had eight pass break-ups last season, third-most on the defense. Perhaps he can come back and have a Jahdae Barron-type growth to boost his NFL stock in 2026.

Michael Taaffe, Safety

“Mookie” thought about going pro but decided to stay, and that’ll be a huge help for the secondary next season. Muhammad and Taaffe give the Horns two dependable returning starters in the defensive backfield. Taaffe is the verbal leader on the back end. He had 10 pass break-ups and two interceptions last season.