Former Texas Longhorns run stopper lands in the perfect situation to have an instant impact following the 2025 NFL Draft
Thinking back to the 2020 recruiting class, Texas defensive tackle Alfred Collins was considered to be a five-star player by multiple major recruiting platforms. Listed as a defensive end in those days, Collins would go through some maturation during his time in Austin. Flash forward five years, and Collins now stands as a 6-6, 332-pound […]
Thinking back to the 2020 recruiting class, Texas defensive tackle Alfred Collins was considered to be a five-star player by multiple major recruiting platforms. Listed as a defensive end in those days, Collins would go through some maturation during his time in Austin. Flash forward five years, and Collins now stands as a 6-6, 332-pound behemoth.
Collins fulfilled his ultimate goal on Friday, becoming a professional football player. The Longhorn standout was selected with the 43rd pick in the second round of the 2025 NFL Draft by the San Francisco 49ers. The 49ers had a major need on the interior defensive line heading into the draft, currently projected to start Jordan Elliott and Evan Anderson at defensive tackle. Obviously both of those spots can be upgraded.
Early on in Collins' career, many were underwhelmed by the former Bastrop (Texas) Cedar Creek star and his contributions to the Texas program. In fact, he was pretty underwhelming for most of his first four seasons. After a lot of patience, and taking advantage of the COVID extra year of eligibility, Collins finally broke out in 2024. He finished that season with 55 total tackles, six tackles for loss, one sack, and seven pass breakups.
While Collins never quite developed into the playmaker many anticipated coming out of high school, he became a stellar run defender during that final season. With some outstanding power, length, and explosiveness, Collins became practically impossible to move at the point of attack. He allowed linebackers like Anthony Hill Jr. to flow behind him and make a ton of plays.
With the 49ers first round selection, they opted for former Georgia defensive end Mykel Williams. What does Williams also bring to the table? He is a stellar run defender. Getting better in that department was obviously a major area of attention. Both players will be expected to step in immediately and play a ton during the 2025 NFL season.
Jahdae Barron takes Texas Longhorns back where they belong as Denver Broncos select him in first round of 2025 NFL Draft
Jahdae Barron developed into perhaps the best cornerback in all of college football last season. His versatility, disciplined tackling, playmaking ability, and consistency all helped carry the Texas Longhorns deep into the College Football Playoff last year. Now he has the Longhorns back where they belong with a defensive back selected firmly inside the first […]
