The head coach are getting ready for their SEC basketball matchup….

Vernon Broughton and Gavin Holmes, two standout players for the University of Texas, have announced their intentions to declare for the 2025 NFL Draft, marking a significant step in their football careers. Both players have been key contributors to the Texas Longhorns over the past few seasons, and their decisions to enter the draft are a reflection of their hard work, development, and the opportunities they see at the professional level.

Vernon Broughton, a highly-touted defensive lineman, and Gavin Holmes, a talented wide receiver, have each made significant impacts during their time at Texas. Their declarations not only reflect their individual aspirations but also shed light on the potential future of the Longhorns’ football program and the talent emerging from the Big 12 conference.

Vernon Broughton, a 6-foot-5 300-pound defensive lineman, has long been regarded as one of the most disruptive players on Texas’ defense. He was a key component of the defensive front, known for his ability to clog running lanes, rush the passer, and cause havoc in the trenches. Broughton’s combination of size, strength, and athleticism has made him one of the most intriguing defensive prospects in this year’s NFL Draft class.

Broughton’s path to Texas was not without challenges. After initially committing to LSU, he ultimately chose the Longhorns, where he made an immediate impact as a true freshman. Over the years, his performance continued to improve as he developed under Texas’ coaching staff, refining his technique and understanding of the game. By his senior season, Broughton was widely regarded as one of the best defensive players in the Big 12, drawing attention from NFL scouts who have been impressed with his versatility and motor.

A standout performance during his final season helped solidify his draft stock. Broughton’s ability to both defend against the run and provide pressure on the quarterback made him an invaluable asset to the Texas defense. His consistency and leadership on the field, coupled with his work ethic off the field, have made him a player to watch in the upcoming NFL Draft.

Gavin Holmes has been a key player for Texas at the wide receiver position, showcasing his explosive speed, reliable hands, and ability to make big plays in critical situations. Standing at 6 feet tall and possessing excellent burst off the line of scrimmage, Holmes has consistently been a deep threat for the Longhorns throughout his career. His ability to separate from defenders and create mismatches has earned him a reputation as one of the top wide receivers in the Big 12.

Holmes’ journey to prominence began when he was recruited to Texas as a highly-regarded prospect, and he quickly demonstrated that he had the potential to become a game-changing receiver. His performances in both the passing game and special teams have made him a well-rounded player, with the versatility to contribute in various ways. Throughout his career, he has had multiple games where he was the difference-maker, with long receptions and spectacular touchdowns that have helped propel the Longhorns to important victories.

One of the key factors that sets Holmes apart is his ability to make adjustments at the line of scrimmage and use his route-running precision to create separation. Holmes also possesses excellent field awareness, knowing when to adjust his route to give his quarterback a clear target. His knack for making big plays in clutch moments has made him one of the most exciting players to watch on the Texas roster.

The decisions of both Broughton and Holmes to declare for the NFL Draft signal the end of an era for the Longhorns. While both players have been integral to Texas’ success, their departures open up opportunities for other players on the roster to step up and fill the voids left behind. For Texas, these declarations are bittersweet. The Longhorns have been building a competitive program under head coach Steve Sar kisian, and losing two standout players will undoubtedly affect the team’s depth and leadership. However, Broughton and Holmes’ decisions also underscore the continued upward trajectory of the program. The fact that these players have developed into NFL-caliber talents speaks volumes about the coaching staff’s ability to develop players and prepare them for the next level.

The Longhorns’ recruiting efforts will now be more important than ever, as they look to replenish their roster with top-tier talent who can continue to build on the foundation laid by players like Broughton and Holmes. The team’s success in the coming years will rely heavily on the next generation of Longhorns stepping up to fill these key roles.

Both Broughton and Holmes are expected to be drafted in the 2025 NFL Draft, though their exact draft positions remain to be seen. Broughton’s combination of size and athleticism could make him a potential early-round pick, with his ability to be a disruptor on defense catching the attention of several NFL teams in need of defensive line help. His strong finish to his senior season has only increased his stock, and his performance at the NFL Scouting Combine and subsequent workouts will be key to determining where he lands.

Holmes, on the other hand, is considered a potential mid-round pick. While his overall draft stock is a bit more volatile, his big-play ability, speed, and consistency make him an intriguing prospect for NFL teams looking to add a dynamic receiver to their offense. Holmes’ development as a route runner and his ability to make plays in key moments could make him a valuable asset to a team looking for a reliable wide out who can stretch the field.

The NFL Draft is always unpredictable, and many factors can influence a player’s position, including team needs, combine performances, and interviews. For both Broughton and Holmes, however, the chance to play at the next level is within reach, and their draft declarations mark a moment of achievement in their football careers.

Vernon Broughton and Gavin Holmes’ decisions to declare for the 2025 NFL Draft are a testament to their growth and development as football players. Their contributions to the Texas Longhorns have been immeasurable, and their moves to enter the professional ranks highlight their potential to make an impact at the next level. As Texas football looks toward the future, the Longhorns will undoubtedly miss their contributions but will also look to the next generation of talent to carry on the legacy of success that Broughton and Holmes helped to build. For these two players, the NFL Draft represents the culmination of years of hard work, and for NFL teams, it represents the opportunity to add two promising talents to their rosters.