Houston Cougar, HCU’s 1st draftee, Rice’s McCaffrey selected on NFL Draft’s 2nd night

When the 2024 NFL Draft commenced on Thursday, the University of Texas celebrated two first-round picks, including Xavier Worthy, who had recently gained attention as a standout performer in the combine.

As the draft progressed into its second night, more talent from UT found their way into the NFL.

Mock drafts from ESPN+ had already hinted at the potential selections from several Texas-based schools for Rounds 2 and 3.

T’Vondre Sweat, a former student of Huntsville High School and defensive tackle for UT, was the first Longhorns player chosen on Friday, selected by the Tennessee Titans at No. 38. ABC13 had previously followed Sweat’s family journey in recent years.

Meanwhile, the Houston Cougars also had representation in the draft as offensive tackle Patrick Paul, hailing from Jersey Village High School, was picked by the Miami Dolphins at No. 55.

In a historic moment, the Philadelphia Eagles made Houston Christian University’s edge rusher Jalyx Hunt their selection at No. 94, marking the school’s inaugural NFL draftee. ABC13 had highlighted Hunt’s journey prior to the draft.

Night 2 of the NFL Draft concluded with the selection of Rice Owl wide receiver Luke McCaffrey by the Washington Commanders at No. 100.

Additionally, several other draft picks with ties to Texas were announced:

– Ja’Lynn Polk, a wide receiver from Lufkin, was selected by the New England Patriots with the 37th overall pick. He previously played for the Washington Huskies and Texas Tech.
– Edgerrin Cooper, an inside linebacker from Texas A&M, was chosen by the Green Bay Packers after they traded into the 45th overall pick.
– Jonathon Brooks, a running back from the University of Texas, was selected by the Carolina Panthers as the 46th overall pick, making him the first running back chosen in the draft.
– Adonai Mitchell, a wide receiver originally from Missouri City, was picked by the Indianapolis Colts with the 52nd overall pick. He had previously played for the national champion Georgia Bulldogs before transferring to UT.
– Brandon Coleman, an offensive guard from TCU, was selected by the Washington Commanders with the 67th pick.