Former Texas Longhorns Set to Stampede Through NFL Free Agency in the Coming Weeks

As the NFL offseason heats up, all eyes turn to free agency, a period that can significantly alter the league's landscape. This year a solid group of former Texas Longhorns is among those entering the market. Texas is renowned for its football program's ability to develop talent that thrives in the NFL, and this year's […]

Travis May — College Football Managing Editor
Add as preferred source on Google
Dec 23, 2023; Inglewood, California, USA; Buffalo Bills defensive tackle Poona Ford (98) celebrates with defensive end Kingsley Jonathan (59) after making a quarterback sack during the third quarter against the Los Angeles Chargers at SoFi Stadium.

As the NFL offseason heats up, all eyes turn to free agency, a period that can significantly alter the league's landscape. This year a solid group of former Texas Longhorns is among those entering the market. Texas is renowned for its football program's ability to develop talent that thrives in the NFL, and this year's class of free agents is no exception, poised to make substantial impacts with new teams.

Free Agency Timeline

The legal tampering" period begins on March 11th at 12pm ET, marking the start of negotiations between players and teams. This window precedes the official kickoff of free agency on March 13th at 4 p.m. ET, when new contracts can be signed, and players can officially join new franchises.

Longhorns to Watch in Free Agency

This season, several Texas alumni are set to command attention on the free agency market. Here are the Longhorns looking to make their next big move:

  • Connor Williams, OL – With his versatility and strength, Williams has proven himself as a reliable asset on the offensive line, capable of providing both solid pass protection and knocking defenders off the line when run blocking.
  • Jordan Hicks, LB – Hicks brings leadership and nearly 900 career tackles of experience, making him a valuable asset to any team in the twilight of his career.
  • DeShon Elliott, S – Elliott may be looking to land with his fourth team in as many years, but he offers teams a combination of range and physicality at the safety position.
  • Brandon Jones, S – As a smart and athletic safety, Jones has struggled to stay healthy at times, but should still get a decent second contract.
  • Poona Ford, DT – Ford hasn't looked quite as dominant in the past two seasons, but his long-time track record of stuffing offenses should warrant significant interest.
  • D'Onta Foreman, RB – Foreman has quietly racked up nearly 3000 yards from scrimmaged in his NFL career. He should certainly land somewhere as a solid depth piece at running back.

The continued success of these players from Texas in the NFL speaks volumes about the Longhorns' football program. Not only is Texas "back" in terms of competing for college football titles. They're also still sending plenty of talent to the league. From Williams' blocking finesse to Hicks' long-time defensive leadership, all of these free agents have translated well to the professional level. Hopefully all of these former Longhorns greats can continue to find success in the coming years.

Related Articles