The Texas football program reached a new low when no Longhorn player was selected during the 2014 NFL Draft. Looking to get back on the board in 2015, UT hosted it’s annual pro timing day event on Tuesday.
Pro days have become a big event within the evolution of the draft, and represent the last milestone on the calendar for prospective athletes to make their mark before the NFL draft. Pro days can be a make or break event when it comes to draft position, and most of the Longhorns made Tuesday’s event work in their favor.
The Headliners
Malcom Brown – Defensive Tackle
Texas fans knew Brown was destined to be selected high after he rampaged through an All-American level junior year at Texas. Brown participated in the NFL scouting combine in February where he helped himself, and he understandably chose to stand on his testing results from that event. However, Brown participated in positional drills on Tuesday, being put to work by coaches from various teams. The Detroit Lions are said to be high on Brown following the departure Ndamukong Suh and Nick Fairley, but there are questions whether Brown will still be available when the Lions pick in the first round (23).
Hicks came to Texas a highly touted prospect that struggled to reach his potential as he fought through injuries and trouble off the field. Hicks flourished under the new coaching staff, having a strong senior season and performing well at the NFL Scouting Combine. Like Brow, Hicks chose to stand on his testing numbers from that event. The Texas ‘backer performed well in drills on Tuesday, showing off his athleticism and versatility.
Diggs was a big presence in his four years at Texas, even if that presence was packed into a small package. A four-year starter for the Longhorns who competed at the scouting combine, Diggs also chose to stand on his testing numbers. Diggs is thought of as a nickel back at the professional level that can cover in the slot and be used on special teams.
