DraftWire recently released an updated NFL mock draft that has two Texas players selected within the first two rounds.
Although the 2021 NFL Draft is roughly 10 months away, there’s already speculation that left tackle Sam Cosmi could ultimately become a top 10 overall pick.
In DraftWire’s two-round projection using the latest Super Bowl odds to determine the draft order, Cosmi and safety Caden Sterns were the first two Longhorns taken off of the board.
In what appears to be a lower spot than usual, Cosmi was selected by the Los Angeles Chargers at No. 18 overall. Sterns, who has squeaked into the first round in some projections, landed at No. 41 overall to the Detroit Lions.
If Sterns can stay healthy, he’s by far one of the best overall players on Texas’ roster. In 2018, he was named the Big 12 Defensive Freshman of the Year and first-team All-Big 12. Although he appeared in every game as a freshman, Sterns has since been crippled with injuries.
Sterns will be one of the most experienced leaders in new defensive coordinator Chris Ash’s defense this season. He was named a second-team All-Big 12 preseason selection by Phil Steele in 2020.
Cosmi has been crucial to quarterback Sam Ehlinger’s success. The 6-7, 310-pound left tackle has anchored an offensive line that assisted in producing 4,326 yards of total offense last season, the second-highest in school history. With another solid year under his belt, Cosmi could become the highest draft pick for Texas since 2013.