DT Hero Kanu decides against NFL Draft, instead returning to Texas

Texas now has the inside of its defense secured, with standout defensive tackle Hero Kanu announcing his decision to come back for the 2026 season instead of entering the NFL Draft. Kanu’s decision puts Steve Sarkisian and new defensive coordinator Will Muschamp on solid ground as the Longhorns ready themselves for an SEC run and beyond.

Following a strong 2025 season that put him on the radar of NFL scouts, Kanu was given a chance to evaluate his prospects in the NFL. Ultimately he chose to spend an extra year honing his craft in Austin, announcing his decision publicly via a social media post in which he described the upcoming 2026 season as his “last ride” in Austin.

By delaying his draft entry, Kanu gives himself an extra year to develop and to build up his résumé while helping to bolster a defensive line that took losses from graduation and players leaving for the NFL.

Last season, Kanu had 31 tackles (nine were solo) and two sacks and a pass deflection, all while logging more snaps than any other interior lineman on the team.

Kanu will be one of seven starters on defense returning for the 2026 season under new defensive coordinator Will Muschamp.