Three former Texas Longhorns looking to earn starting jobs during NFL OTAs

Being an early-round NFL draft pick sets players up for success early in their careers, but nothing is ever guaranteed. The start of NFL OTAs can be a humbling experience for rookies as they experience the speed and strength of the professional game. We're looking at three former Texas Longhorns who have the chance to land huge roles as rookies in 2024.

Kansas City Chiefs wide receiver Xavier Worthy, Seattle Seahawks defensive tackle Byron Murphy, and Tennessee Titans defensive tackle T'Vondre Sweat could become Day 1 starters this fall. Let's dive into what each must prove in OTAs and training camp to get there.

Chiefs WR Xavier Worthy 2024 Outlook

One of the most jarring moments of the 2024 NFL Draft was when the Chiefs traded up with the Buffalo Bills to land Worthy. The last thing the NFL needed was to give Patrick Mahomes a speedy star. Worthy, after blazing a 4.21 40, solidified himself as a tremendous creator throughout his collegiate career.

Especially as Travis Kelce ages and Rashee Rice's legal situation plays out, the honus is on Worthy to produce immediately. Veteran Hollywood Brown will help stretch the field across from Worthy, but Brown has long been more of a complementary piece than a devastating downfield star. Worthy's creation after the catch is much more interesting to build around.

Comparing Worthy to Kadarius Toney isn't fair, given that the latter was more of a flash in the pan at Florida than someone as feared as Worthy. But that's what Worthy critics are concerned about, as Toney is a gadget player who has failed in spectacular ways in the NFL. Worthy has to jump out to a fast start to avoid a confidence drop.

It might seem crazy that the first-rounder could lose reps to SkyyMoore, Toney, and Justin Watson, but it's not unprecedented for a rookie to start slow. If he plays as expected, he should be the third or fourth most-targeted player on the roster in 2024.

Seahawks DT Byron Murphy 2024 Outlook

Seattle has one of the deepest defensive line rotations in the league after adding Murphy and re-signing Leonard Williams this offseason. Finding production on a unit boasting Dre'Mont Jones, Williams, and a bevy of young pass-rushers won't be easy. Thus, as he did at Texas, Murphy will have to continue winning at a high rate and opening opportunities for his teammates.

Murphy's pass-rush win rate was almost 10% higher than any other defensive tackle in the class, so he brings a specialty to the table. Given that new Seahawks head coach Mike Macdonald loves a deep rotation of talented bodies along the line, expect Murphy to either benefit from solo blocks or open sack opportunities for others. 

Titans DT T'Vondre Sweat 2024 Outlook

Sweat was another quality pass-rusher in the 2024 class despite being 366 pounds and being known for his run defense. He won on 16% of attempts, ranking second to Murphy. He led all FBS DTs with a 92.0 run defense grade from PFF, so he's tremendous in that area.

Despite a tremendous profile and impressive athleticism for his size, Sweat has the biggest question mark of any player on this list. His work ethic must match his huge body. He was arrested for a DWI before the draft and faced character questions due to his off-field habits while at Texas.

He said the right things about those issues being in the past, but now it's time to prove it. His frame won't allow reckless habits to take over his life. Getting out of shape means he'll be unplayable in a hurry. 

If all goes well, Sweat should be a great complement to veteran Jeffrey Simmons right away. But that journey starts right now.