Texas' NFL Draft History: From First Round to Mr. Irrelevant
A Comprehensive Look at the Lone Star State's Impact on the NFL
The NFL Draft has long been a source of excitement and anticipation for football fans across the United States. Texas, with its rich football tradition, has played a significant role in shaping the landscape of professional football through its contributions to the draft. From top picks to the final selection, known as Mr. Irrelevant, the Lone Star State has left an indelible mark on the NFL's annual player selection process.
Texas has produced numerous first-round selections and even a few Mr. Irrelevants over the years, showcasing the state's depth of football talent. While first-round picks often garner the most attention, the Mr. Irrelevant title has gained its own unique notoriety. This designation, given to the last player selected in the draft, has become a celebrated tradition since its inception in 1976.
Some Mr. Irrelevants have defied expectations and found success in the NFL. Ryan Succop, selected last in the 2009 draft, became a Super Bowl champion with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and has established himself as a reliable kicker in the league. His journey from final pick to successful pro serves as inspiration for aspiring players and highlights the unpredictable nature of the NFL Draft.
Evolution of the Mr. Irrelevant Title
The Mr. Irrelevant title has become a cherished NFL Draft tradition, transforming the final pick from an afterthought to a celebrated position. This unique moniker has produced some surprising success stories over the years.
Origin and Significance of the Title
Paul Salata, a former NFL player, created the Mr. Irrelevant title in 1976. He wanted to celebrate the underdog and bring attention to the final pick of the NFL Draft. The title comes with a week-long celebration in Newport Beach, California, known as "Irrelevant Week."
Players receive the Lowsman Trophy, a parody of the Heisman. The NFL embraced this tradition, with Commissioner Pete Rozelle instituting the "Salata Rule" to prevent teams from passing to acquire the last pick.
This rule ensures the Mr. Irrelevant title remains a true representation of the draft's final selection.
Prominent Mr. Irrelevants in NFL History
While many Mr. Irrelevants struggle to make NFL rosters, some have defied expectations. Ryan Succop, the 2009 Mr. Irrelevant, became a successful kicker and won Super Bowl LV with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
Jim Finn, selected last in 1999, had a solid career as a fullback and earned a Super Bowl ring with the New York Giants. More recently, Brock Purdy, Mr. Irrelevant of 2022, led the San Francisco 49ers to the NFC Championship game as a rookie quarterback.
These success stories highlight the potential hidden in the draft's final pick, proving that even Mr. Irrelevant can make a significant impact in the NFL.
Draft Strategies and Texas' Approach
Texas teams have employed various draft strategies over the years, with differing results for first-round picks versus later selections. The Longhorns' pipeline to the NFL has produced both star players and hidden gems.
Analyzing Draft Picks from Texas Teams
Texas NFL teams often prioritize local talent, including Longhorns players. The Dallas Cowboys have selected 33 Texas players since 1960. The Houston Texans, established in 2002, have picked 7 Longhorns.
These teams typically focus on positions of need in early rounds. Quarterbacks from Texas, like Vince Young and Colt McCoy, have been coveted prospects. The Cowboys notably drafted defensive end Tony Tolbert in the fourth round of 1989, who became a key player in their 1990s dynasty.
Comparative Success of First Rounders versus Last Picks
First-round picks from Texas have generally met expectations in the NFL. Earl Thomas, selected 14th overall in 2010, became a 7-time Pro Bowler. Jamaal Charles, a third-round pick in 2008, outperformed his draft position with 4 Pro Bowl selections.
Late-round selections have also found success. Justin Tucker, undrafted in 2012, is now considered one of the best kickers in NFL history. Quentin Jammer, picked 5th overall in 2002, had a solid 12-year career but never made a Pro Bowl.
Texas has produced 3 overall #1 picks: Earl Campbell (1978), Kenneth Sims (1982), and Vince Young (2006). Their NFL careers varied widely in success and longevity.
Impactful Players from Texas in the NFL Draft
Texas has produced numerous NFL stars through the draft process. These players have left their mark on the league, from first-round phenoms to late-round gems who exceeded expectations.
First Round Success Stories
Earl Campbell, selected 1st overall in 1978, dominated as a running back for the Houston Oilers. He earned NFL Offensive Player of the Year honors three times and was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame.
Vince Young, picked 3rd overall in 2006, made an immediate impact with the Tennessee Titans. He won NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year and was selected to two Pro Bowls.
Jerry Gray, chosen 21st overall in 1985, became a four-time Pro Bowl cornerback for the Los Angeles Rams. His ball-hawking skills led to 28 career interceptions.
Celebrated Late-Round Picks
Michael Griffin, a 5th round selection in 2007, developed into a two-time Pro Bowl safety for the Titans. He recorded 25 interceptions and 7 forced fumbles over his 10-year career.
Jordan Shipley, taken in the 3rd round of 2010, emerged as a reliable slot receiver for the Cincinnati Bengals. He caught 52 passes for 600 yards and 3 touchdowns in his rookie season.
Justin Tucker, undrafted in 2012, signed with the Baltimore Ravens and became the most accurate kicker in NFL history. He's made numerous clutch field goals, including a record 66-yarder in 2021.
Notable Franchises in Drafting Texas Talent
Several NFL teams have consistently tapped into the wealth of talent produced by the University of Texas. These franchises have shown a keen eye for identifying and selecting Longhorn players who have gone on to make significant impacts in the professional ranks.
Kansas City Chiefs and Their Draft Acumen
The Kansas City Chiefs have been particularly adept at recognizing Texas talent. In recent years, they've selected multiple Longhorns who have contributed to their success. Offensive lineman Trey Hopkins, drafted in 2014, developed into a solid starter.
Defensive end Charles Omenihu, picked in the fifth round of the 2019 draft, has become a valuable rotational player. His performance in Super Bowl LV helped the Chiefs secure their championship victory.
The Chiefs' most notable Texas draftee is perhaps running back Jamaal Charles. Selected in the third round of the 2008 draft, Charles became one of the most dynamic players in franchise history.
The Houston Texans' Draft Selections
The Houston Texans, being in close proximity to Austin, have often looked to Texas for draft talent. They've selected several Longhorns over the years, with mixed results.
D'Onta Foreman, a third-round pick in 2017, showed promise before injuries derailed his tenure with the team. Defensive tackle Malcom Brown, their first-round selection in 2015, had a solid four-year stint with the Texans.
One of their most successful Texas picks was linebacker Brian Cushing. Drafted 15th overall in 2009, Cushing became a cornerstone of the Texans' defense for nearly a decade.
Dallas Cowboys' Draft Dynamics
The Dallas Cowboys have a long history of drafting Texas Longhorns, given their in-state connection. This relationship has produced some notable NFL careers.
Defensive end Tony Tolbert, picked in the fourth round of the 1989 draft, became a key part of the Cowboys' dominant defense in the 1990s. He helped the team win three Super Bowls during his career.
More recently, defensive tackle Roy Miller, selected in the third round of the 2009 draft, had a productive NFL career spanning nearly a decade.
The Cowboys' most high-profile Texas draftee in recent years is likely Connor Williams. Picked in the second round of the 2018 draft, Williams has been a starter on the Cowboys' offensive line.
The Journey from College to the NFL
The transition from college football to the NFL is a complex process involving player performance, scouting, and crucial pre-draft events. Success at the collegiate level doesn't always translate directly to draft status or professional achievements.
Collegiate Performance versus NFL Draft Status
College stats and accolades can impact a player's draft stock, but they aren't the only factors. NFL teams evaluate a prospect's physical attributes, technical skills, and potential for growth. Some highly productive college players go undrafted, while others with less impressive stats become early picks.
Texas has produced both scenarios. Colt McCoy set numerous records as a Longhorn quarterback but was drafted in the third round. Conversely, Vince Young's exceptional college career led to his selection as the third overall pick in 2006.
The Importance of Combine and Pro Days
The NFL Combine and university Pro Days are critical for draft prospects. These events allow players to showcase their physical abilities and football skills directly to NFL scouts and executives. Impressive performances can boost a player's draft stock significantly.
Texas' Pro Day has been a launching pad for many Longhorns. In recent years, players like DeShon Elliott and Malik Jefferson have used strong showings to improve their draft positions. Even undrafted players can catch the eye of NFL teams during these events.
Ryan Succop, though not from Texas, exemplifies the impact of pre-draft performances. Despite being Mr. Irrelevant in 2009, he went on to have a successful NFL career and won a Super Bowl with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
Success Beyond the Draft - Mr. Irrelevants Who Defied Odds
The last pick in the NFL draft has produced some surprising success stories. Several players tagged as "Mr. Irrelevant" have gone on to have impactful professional careers, defying expectations and earning respect in the league.
Unsung Heroes and Their Professional Achievements
Ryan Succop stands out as one of the most successful Mr. Irrelevants in NFL history. Drafted by the Kansas City Chiefs in 2009, Succop carved out a long career as a reliable kicker. He played for over a decade in the league, setting records for accuracy and consistency.
Succop's crowning achievement came in 2021 when he won Super Bowl LV with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. His journey from last pick to Super Bowl champion exemplifies the potential hidden in the draft's final selection.
Climbing the Ranks: Mr. Irrelevants to Stardom
While not all Mr. Irrelevants reach stardom, several have become solid contributors. Jim Finn, the last pick in 1999, played seven seasons as a fullback and won a Super Bowl with the New York Giants.
Marty Moore, selected last in 1994, enjoyed an eight-year NFL career. He became the first Mr. Irrelevant to play in a Super Bowl when his New England Patriots reached the big game in 1997.
These players proved that draft position doesn't determine a player's ultimate impact. Their stories inspire late-round picks and undrafted free agents to pursue their NFL dreams.
The Cultural Impact of the NFL Draft in Texas
The NFL Draft holds immense cultural significance in Texas. Football-loving Texans eagerly anticipate this annual event, treating it with the fervor usually reserved for major holidays.
Draft parties have become a staple across the Lone Star State. Fans gather to celebrate their team's picks and debate potential selections, fostering a sense of community and shared passion.
Texas cities that host the draft experience a surge in tourism and economic activity. Local businesses benefit from the influx of visitors, while the host city gains national attention.
The draft influences Texas pop culture, inspiring countless mock drafts, podcasts, and social media discussions. Local sports media dedicate extensive coverage to draft prospects and team needs.
Texas high school and college players who get drafted become instant hometown heroes. Their success stories inspire younger athletes and reinforce the state's reputation for producing top football talent.
The draft's impact extends beyond sports, touching on broader cultural themes:
Hope and renewal for struggling teams
Dreams of future Super Bowl glory
Celebration of hard work and dedication
For many Texans, the NFL Draft represents more than just player selection. It embodies the state's love for football and its deep-rooted sports traditions.
