With the 2020 NFL Draft taking place just over a month ago, Texas had three players selected, the most since 2018. It has been five years since the Longhorns produced a first-round selection when Malcolm Brown was the 32nd overall pick to the New England NFL Draft.
Going into the 2021 NFL Draft, Texas has a couple candidates to be selected in the first round. With a good season, quarterback Sam Ehlinger and safety Caden Sterns could sneak into the top 32. For now, there is only one surefire pick with left tackle Samuel Cosmi.
ESPN’s Todd McShay agrees, ranking the lineman in his top 10 prospects for the 2021 NFL Draft. Here is what he said about Cosmi:
Cosmi shows some quick feet for a 6-foot-7 lineman and can redirect really well in pass protection. He has 26 career starts, playing both sides of the line.
Expected to start at left tackle this season, Cosmi will be protecting Ehlinger’s blindside. He has played at right tackle, however, showing he can play both sides of the offensive line.
Cosmi’s athleticism is what makes him such a special talent. Listed at 6-7 and 310 pounds, his ability to move around and stay with defenders puts him in the conversation as one of the best tackles in the nation. His footwork and use of his hands make Cosmi a top NFL prospect.
He can even be used as a wide receiver:
BIG MAN TOUCHDOWN! Sam Cosmi in for six #HookEm 🤘 pic.twitter.com/CT4g5MmmPt
— CJ Vogel (@cjvogel3) October 5, 2019
Under new offensive coordinator Mike Yurich, Texas’ passing game is expected to elevate to a new level. In order for it to be successful, it will begin with solid protection across the line. The left side will be a strength for the Longhorns thanks to Cosmi.
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