Texas Junior DB Holton Hill to declare for NFL Draft

Texas Longhorns defensive back Holton Hill has decided to forego his senior season and will enter the 2018 NFL Draft, in a statement released by the University of Texas on Monday afternoon. Hill was suspended for the final three games of the 2017 season for unspecified violations of team rules. Hill becomes the third player to announce his early departure in hopes of being selected in the NFL Draft, following in the footsteps of offensive tackle Connor Williams and defensive back DeShon Elliott.

Arch Manning Lands on Davey O’Brien Award Preseason Watch List

Texas Lands 11 Players on 2026 Preseason Coaches All-SEC Team

Holton Hill’s full statement on his decision:

“After careful consideration with my family, I have made the decision to forgo my senior year and turn my focus towards training for the NFL Draft.

The past three years at Texas have been a great learning experience for me, and I appreciate everyone who has helped me throughout my college career, especially Coach Herman, Coach Washington, Coach Orlando and Coach Strong. I am blessed to have had the opportunity to play for such an amazing program at The University of Texas, and I know the values that have been instilled in me and lessons I’ve learned will continue to propel me forward at the next level.

I can’t say enough about the support my teammates have given me. Those guys are going to always be my teammates, and I know that bond will last way beyond our time here at Texas. I also appreciate the great fans, and even though I’m moving on, I’m always going to be a Longhorn. Thank you all for your support, the best is yet to come.”

After the Oklahoma State loss, junior defensive back DeShon Elliott said Hill was a “first round cornerback,” adding that he [Hill] is the best cornerback he’s ever played with.

Hill finished the season with two interceptions for two touchdowns and 51 tackles, including 39 solo tackles.