Vernon Broughton Texas DT Showing Promise in Spring Practice Sessions

Vernon Broughton stands out as one of Texas’ most reliable defensive linemen, bringing a unique blend of size and athleticism to the Longhorns’ front. The 6’4″, 305-pound defender has accumulated impressive numbers across his college career, with 69 tackles, 10.5 tackles for loss, and 5.5 sacks over 55 games. His consistent presence on the field demonstrates both durability and the coaching staff’s confidence in his abilities.

Broughton’s combination of broad shoulders and terrific height gives him positional versatility that NFL scouts find particularly appealing as the 2025 NFL Draft approaches. The fifth-year defensive tackle has shown steady improvement each season, developing from a rotational player into a key starter for a Texas program that has returned to national prominence.

With the draft evaluation process heating up, Broughton’s stock continues to rise among NFL front offices looking for defensive line talent. His ability to fit multiple positions depending on scheme makes him adaptable to various NFL defensive systems, while his experience playing in high-pressure Big 12 and SEC environments has prepared him for the next level.

Early Life and High School Career

Vernon Broughton’s path to becoming a standout defensive tackle began in Texas, where he developed his skills at multiple high schools before establishing himself as a top-tier defensive line prospect.

High School Achievements

Broughton attended Cypress Ridge High School in Harris County, Texas, where he cemented his reputation as an elite defensive lineman. Before that, he spent his sophomore year at Houston Spring Woods, showing his versatility and determination early in his high school career.

The young defensive tackle quickly made a name for himself on the field. As a junior, Broughton earned first-team all-district honors, demonstrating his dominance against local competition.

Standing at an imposing 6’4″ and weighing 305 pounds even in his high school days, Broughton possessed the physical tools that would later serve him well at Texas. His combination of size, strength, and athleticism made him a disruptive force on the defensive line.

College recruiters took notice of Broughton’s potential, as he developed into a sought-after prospect. His performance in high school showcased the raw talent that would eventually translate to success with the Texas Longhorns.

Collegiate Career at the University of Texas

Vernon Broughton has been a consistent force on the Longhorns’ defensive line through his time in Austin. The defensive tackle has accumulated 69 tackles, 6 sacks, and 11 tackles for loss across more than four seasons, developing from a promising freshman to a respected senior leader.

Freshman Season Highlights

Broughton arrived at Texas as a highly touted recruit, boasting an impressive frame that coaches immediately recognized as college-ready. His broad-shouldered physique and terrific height made him stand out even among other defensive linemen.

The freshman campaign served primarily as a development year, with Broughton getting his feet wet in the competitive Big 12 environment. He showed flashes of the disruptive potential that made him such a coveted high school prospect.

Coaches praised his quick learning curve and willingness to absorb technical aspects of the position. Though his statistical impact remained modest, the foundation was clearly being laid for a promising career in burnt orange.

Sophomore Year Development

Year two saw Broughton taking significant strides in his development. The defensive tackle began to translate his physical gifts into more consistent on-field production, earning increased playing time in the Longhorns’ rotation.

His understanding of leverage and hand techniques showed marked improvement. Broughton displayed greater comfort navigating double teams and finding ways to disrupt opposing backfields.

This sophomore leap didn’t necessarily translate to eye-popping statistics, but film study revealed a player growing more comfortable with the speed and complexity of college football. His presence began commanding more attention from opposing offensive coordinators.

Junior Year Performance

Broughton’s junior campaign represented his most complete season to date. Now firmly established in the defensive line rotation, he showcased improved conditioning that allowed him to maintain effectiveness deeper into games.

His ability to both anchor against the run and collapse the pocket on passing downs made him increasingly valuable to the Texas defense. Teammates and coaches pointed to Broughton’s improved leadership qualities, as he began mentoring younger players.

The numbers began reflecting his growth, with a noticeable uptick in tackles for loss and quarterback pressures. NFL scouts started taking more serious notice of his disruptive capabilities.

Senior Year and Legacy

In his final campaign with the Longhorns, Broughton emerged as a dependable veteran presence. His career totals of 69 tackles, 6 sacks and 11 tackles for loss reflect his steady, if not spectacular, contribution to the Texas defense.

Vernon Broughton Career Statistics

Season	Games	Tackles	TFL	Sacks
Career	55	69	11	6

Draft analysts project Broughton as a mid-round selection in the 2025 NFL Draft, citing his versatility to fit multiple positions depending on scheme. At 6’5″ and 311 pounds, his frame remains his most appealing attribute to pro scouts.

While his production doesn’t leap off the stat sheet, NFL teams value his durability and consistency. Broughton appeared in 55 games for the Longhorns, demonstrating remarkable availability in an era where many top prospects often manage injuries or opt out of portions of their college careers.

2025 NFL Draft Prospects

Vernon Broughton has positioned himself as an intriguing defensive tackle prospect for the 2025 NFL Draft. His combination of size, power, and athletic upside has garnered attention from scouts across the league as teams look for disruptive interior defenders.

Pre-Draft Analysis and Rankings

Broughton stands at an impressive 6’5″ and 311 pounds, giving him the ideal frame for an NFL defensive tackle. His physical attributes have helped him climb draft boards throughout his final season at Texas.

Current mock drafts project Broughton as a potential day two selection, with some analysts seeing him as high as a late first-round pick depending on his pre-draft workouts. His versatility along the defensive line makes him particularly valuable in today’s NFL.

The Texas standout has shown steady improvement each season, culminating in his most productive year as a Longhorn. Over his college career, Broughton appeared in 55 games, recording 69 tackles, 10.5 tackles for loss, and 5.5 sacks.

His draft stock benefits from strong performances in key matchups, particularly against top SEC competition. Scouts have been impressed with his motor and ability to disrupt plays behind the line of scrimmage.

Attribute	Rating (1-10)	Notes
Quickness/Penetration	6	Good initial burst
Power	6	Solid anchor against the run
Pass Rush Moves	6	Developing technique
Versatility	8	Can play multiple positions

Projection and Team Fit

Broughton projects best as a 3-technique defensive tackle in a 4-3 scheme, though his versatility allows him to line up at multiple spots along the defensive front. His combination of size and athleticism makes him adaptable to various defensive systems.

Teams like the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Minnesota Vikings, and New York Giants could target Broughton in the second round. Each of these teams needs interior defensive line help and values versatile defenders who can contribute on all three downs.

The explosive athleticism and scheme versatility Broughton brings to the table will be particularly appealing to teams running hybrid defensive fronts. His ability to play both as a traditional defensive tackle and as a 3-4 defensive end increases his draft value.

What ultimately determines Broughton’s draft position will be his performance at the NFL Combine and Texas Pro Day.

2025 NFL Combine Performance

Vernon Broughton’s presence at the 2025 NFL Combine showcased why the Texas defensive tackle has scouts buzzing. His impressive measurements combined with solid drill performances have solidified his position as one of the top interior defensive linemen in this draft class.

Measurable Statistics

Broughton measured in at an imposing 6-foot-5 and 311 pounds, which is considered ideal size for a 3-4 defensive end. His frame carries the weight well, showing no signs of bad weight or mobility limitations.

His arm length registered at 34 3/8 inches, giving him the necessary length to keep offensive linemen at bay. Hand measurements came in at 10 1/4 inches, providing him excellent control when engaging blockers.

Broughton’s wingspan measured 82 inches, placing him in the 85th percentile among defensive tackles in this class. This physical profile makes him particularly appealing to teams running hybrid defensive schemes.

Measurement	Result	Percentile Rank
Height	6’5″	92nd
Weight	311 lbs	78th
Arm Length	34 3/8″	81st
Hand Size	10 1/4″	85th
Wingspan	82″	85th

Drills and Athletic Testing

Broughton’s 40-yard dash time of 5.02 seconds was solid for his size, showing better-than-expected straight-line speed. His 10-yard split of 1.73 seconds particularly impressed scouts, highlighting his initial burst off the line.

In agility drills, he posted a 7.28-second three-cone drill and a 4.47-second short shuttle. These numbers demonstrate respectable change-of-direction ability for a player with his dimensions.

His explosiveness showed in the vertical jump (30.5 inches) and broad jump (9’2″), both above average for defensive tackles. These results confirm what we saw on tape – Broughton can generate power from his lower body.

The bench press yielded 26 reps, solid but not exceptional, suggesting upper body strength is adequate rather than elite. His positional drills revealed smooth hip movement and good hand placement techniques.

Interviews and Team Interactions

Broughton reportedly impressed teams during the interview process. He displayed high football IQ and articulated defensive concepts clearly. Multiple teams noted his ability to diagnose plays when watching film during whiteboard sessions.

The Denver Broncos showed significant interest. Reports confirmed they scheduled a Top 30 visit with him following the Combine. Teams were particularly interested in his versatility, as he has experience playing multiple positions along the defensive line.

His character evaluations came back overwhelmingly positive. Broughton demonstrated leadership qualities and maturity in team interviews. Scouts noted his detailed knowledge of Texas’ defensive schemes and his role within them.

He appeared comfortable discussing technique adjustments and scheme fits with various defensive coordinators. This adaptability has teams viewing him as a potential three-down player who won’t need to be substituted in specialized packages.

Post-Combine Analysis

Vernon Broughton’s NFL Combine performance has significantly shaped his draft positioning, showcasing both his impressive physical tools and areas for development as NFL teams evaluate his potential fit on their defensive lines.

Rising or Falling Stock

Broughton’s stock is trending upward following a solid showing at the Combine. The Texas defensive tackle measured 6-foot-5 and 311 pounds, displaying ideal size for a 3-4 defensive end. His 35-inch arms and nearly 84-inch wingspan place him in elite territory for reach and leverage potential.

His athletic testing reinforced what scouts saw on film – a surprisingly nimble big man. Broughton posted a respectable 4.90 in the forty-yard dash, which ranks well above average for interior defensive linemen.

Teams have taken notice of his physical traits, with several scheduling top-30 visits, including the Denver Broncos who appear particularly interested in his fit as a defensive end in their scheme.

Measurement	Result	Position Rank
Height	6’5″	Top 15%
Weight	311 lbs	Standard
Arm Length	35″	Top 10%
Wingspan	83⅞”	Top 5%
40-yard dash	4.90	Top 30%

Comparisons to Other Prospects

When stacked against his peers, Broughton occupies an interesting middle ground in the 2025 defensive tackle class. He’s not quite as dominant as the blue-chip prospects, but his combination of size, length, and movement skills gives him tremendous upside.

His closest comparison might be former Texas A&M standout DeMarvin Leal, though Broughton possesses superior length and raw power. Both players share versatility along the defensive front, though Broughton profiles as an ascending talent whose best football lies ahead.

Draft analysts currently rank him around #42 overall, suggesting a second-round selection. This places him behind top defensive tackle prospects but firmly in the day two conversation.

What separates Broughton is his projectable frame and scheme versatility. Unlike some defensive tackles who are purely run-stuffers or pass-rushers, his physical tools suggest he could develop into a three-down player with proper coaching.

Player Profile and Skill Set

Vernon Broughton has developed into an impactful defensive lineman during his time at Texas, showcasing a blend of physical tools and technical skills that have NFL scouts taking notice. His progression through five seasons with the Longhorns has revealed a player with significant upside at the next level.

Physical Attributes

At 6’4″ and 320 pounds, Broughton possesses the ideal frame for an interior defensive lineman. His broad shoulders and impressive wingspan allow him to occupy space and engage offensive linemen effectively. What stands out most about Broughton is his combination of size and movement skills.

His length is particularly noteworthy, giving him natural leverage advantages against interior offensive linemen. Broughton shows good functional strength at the point of attack, allowing him to hold his ground against double teams.

Despite his size, he displays better-than-average athleticism for the position, with decent lateral movement skills. This mobility allows him to be utilized in multiple fronts and alignments, increasing his value to defensive coordinators.

Technique and On-Field Intelligence

Broughton’s technical development has been steady throughout his college career. He employs powerful hand usage when engaging blockers, demonstrating the ability to control opponents at the line of scrimmage. His punch power and length provide versatility as either a rush player or gap-control defender.

Over 55 games with the Longhorns, Broughton has shown increasingly refined gap discipline and understanding of blocking schemes. He recognizes screen plays and misdirection attempts with growing consistency.

Career Statistics at Texas:

Stat	Total
Games Played	55
Starts	16
Total Tackles	69
Tackles for Loss	10.5
Sacks	5.5

His production has been solid if not spectacular, with 69 career tackles and 5.5 sacks. What doesn’t show in the stats is his ability to occupy blockers and free up teammates to make plays.

Strengths and Areas for Improvement

Broughton’s greatest strengths lie in his physical tools and versatility. His potential to fit multiple positions depending on scheme makes him an intriguing prospect. He demonstrates good power at the point of attack and can collapse the pocket with bull rushes when he plays with proper leverage.

His run defense has become increasingly reliable, using his length to disengage from blockers and make plays in his gap. NFL scouts are particularly impressed with his upside as a rotational defensive lineman who can contribute in various situations.

Areas for improvement include developing a more diverse pass rush repertoire. While his bull rush is effective, he needs countermoves to be a consistent threat to quarterbacks. His pad level can also rise at times, negating his natural strength advantages.

Draft projections currently place Broughton as a mid-round selection with the potential to rise with a strong senior season and pre-draft process. Teams will value his physical traits and developmental upside as either a 3-technique or 5-technique defensive lineman at the next level.

Potential Impact in the NFL

Vernon Broughton has the physical tools and developing skill set to make his mark at the next level. His combination of size, athleticism, and versatility presents an intriguing package for NFL teams looking to bolster their defensive line.

Immediate vs. Long-Term Contributions

Broughton projects as an immediate impact player in a rotational role, giving NFL teams valuable snaps while he develops his complete game. His physical attributes alone will allow him to contribute right away, particularly in run defense situations.

The production numbers show steady development during his time at Texas. In the 2022-2023 seasons, he recorded 27 pressures, 2 sacks, and 15 stops over 578 snaps, demonstrating his ability to affect plays.

By year two, Broughton has the potential to develop into a starter. His ceiling remains high as he continues to refine his technique and rushing plan.

Season	Snaps	Pressures	Sacks	Stops
2022-2023	578	27	2	15

Broughton’s draft projection currently places him in the mid-rounds, with most analysts seeing him as a 3rd-4th round selection with upside.

Scheme Fit and Versatility

Broughton’s effectiveness will depend significantly on scheme fit. He profiles best as a versatile defensive lineman who can play multiple techniques along the front.

His current limitations as a pass rusher – lacking bull-rush power and refined hand techniques – suggest he’ll initially make his biggest impact in the run game. Teams employing multiple fronts will value his positional flexibility.

Teams like the Green Bay Packers could be ideal landing spots, where he would slot into the rotation and help improve run defense while developing his pass rush repertoire.

His athletic profile and constant motor make him an attractive developmental prospect. With proper coaching and a defined role, Broughton has the tools to outperform his draft position and develop into a valuable defensive piece for years to come.

Comparison to Current NFL Players

When evaluating Vernon Broughton’s NFL potential, comparing him to established professionals helps contextualize his skill set and future ceiling. His unique combination of size, athleticism, and technical ability draws parallels to several current NFL defensive linemen.

Similar Playstyles

Broughton’s game most closely resembles Phidarian Mathis of the Washington Commanders. Both players leverage exceptional length and wingspan to control offensive linemen at the point of attack.

The Texas defensive tackle’s surprising first step at 310 pounds draws comparisons to Javon Kinlaw (49ers). Broughton’s explosion off the line allows him to disrupt plays before they develop, much like Kinlaw’s penetration ability.

His versatility as both a run-stopper and pass-rusher mirrors that of Calais Campbell. Both can line up at defensive tackle or defensive end depending on the situation.

Broughton’s elite length and massive wingspan make him a natural comparison to players who excel at batting down passes and disrupting throwing lanes.

Career Trajectories and Expectations

Broughton projects as an ascending talent whose best football lies ahead. His current draft projection places him at #42 overall in the 2025 NFL Draft, suggesting he could be a high second-round selection.

His development curve resembles Arik Armstead’s early career – raw physical tools that required technical refinement to reach full potential. NFL scouts believe Broughton’s ceiling could be even higher.

Attribute	Vernon Broughton	NFL Comparison
Size	6’4″, 310 lbs	Phidarian Mathis
First Step	Explosive	Javon Kinlaw
Versatility	DT/DE	Calais Campbell
Draft Projection	Early 2nd Round	–
40-Yard Dash	4.90 seconds	–

Broughton’s combination of explosive athleticism and physical tools suggests he could develop into a Pro Bowl-caliber defensive lineman if he continues his upward trajectory.

Teams with defensive line needs in the 2025 draft will likely target Broughton as a versatile piece who can contribute immediately while developing into a potential cornerstone of their defensive front.

Market Value and Contract Expectations

Vernon Broughton’s draft position and eventual NFL contract will largely depend on how teams view his development potential versus his current production. The Texas defensive tackle has shown flashes but hasn’t posted the dominant statistics that typically lead to early round selections.

Rookie Contracts and Salary Cap Implications

Based on current projections, Broughton is likely headed for a fourth-round value in the 2025 NFL Draft. This placement would significantly impact his rookie contract terms.

Fourth-round picks typically receive four-year contracts worth approximately $4.5-5 million total with signing bonuses around $800,000-900,000. For NFL teams operating under tight salary cap constraints, Broughton represents a potentially high-value selection with minimal financial risk.

His cap hit would likely start below $1 million in year one, escalating modestly over the contract term. This makes him particularly attractive to teams like the Green Bay Packers, who have shown interest and often build through mid-round selections.

Draft Round Projection vs. Contract Value:

Projected Round	Contract Length	Estimated Total Value	Signing Bonus
4th Round	4 years	$4.5-5 million	$800K-900K
5th Round	4 years	$4.0-4.5 million	$300K-400K

Free Agency Predictions

Broughton’s initial path to his second contract will hinge on his development during his rookie deal. The Texas defensive lineman hasn’t displayed elite pass-rushing moves or consistent dominance, which typically drive premium free agent contracts.

If he develops as a rotational defensive tackle, his second contract might fall in the $5-7 million per year range. However, significant improvement could push that figure higher.

Teams will likely view Broughton as a developmental prospect with untapped potential rather than an immediate impact player. His 6’4″, 305-pound frame provides the athletic foundation teams covet, but his technique needs refinement.

Free agency for defensive tackles has been volatile recently, with elite interior defenders commanding $15+ million annually while rotational players often settle for deals around $3-5 million per season. Broughton’s eventual market will depend on whether he can elevate beyond his college production.

Other Notable Collegiate Defensive Tackles

While Vernon Broughton has established himself as a legitimate NFL prospect, several other defensive tackles across college football have shown similar potential. These players have demonstrated impressive combinations of size, strength, and technical skill that make them worth watching.

Class of 2025 Prospects

T.J. Sanders from Clemson might be the most disruptive interior defensive lineman in college football right now. At 6’4″ and 305 pounds, Sanders combines exceptional first-step quickness with the power to collapse pockets from the inside. He recorded 44 tackles and 6.5 sacks last season, showing why he’s projected as a potential top-15 pick.

JJ Pegues of Ole Miss doesn’t get the same national attention, but NFL scouts are taking notice. His unique athletic profile at 6’3″ and 315 pounds allows him to penetrate gaps while also anchoring against double teams. Pegues improved his pass rush tremendously last season.

Walter Nolen has transformed his body and his game since transferring to Ole Miss. The former five-star recruit has finally harnessed his physical gifts and developed the consistent motor coaches always wanted to see.

Player	School	Height/Weight	2024 Stats	Draft Projection
T.J. Sanders	Clemson	6’4″/305	44 tackles, 6.5 sacks	Top 15
JJ Pegues	Ole Miss	6’3″/315	38 tackles, 4.5 sacks	Late 1st Round
Walter Nolen	Ole Miss	6’4″/320	41 tackles, 5.0 sacks	Early 2nd Round

Leonard Taylor III from Miami possesses perhaps the quickest hands in this class. His ability to shed blocks and disrupt backfields reminds some scouts of former first-rounder Christian Wilkins. Taylor’s technique has improved dramatically over the past year.

Mykel Williams of Georgia has the versatility to play multiple positions along the defensive front. Though sometimes deployed on the edge, many NFL teams project him as a three-technique tackle who can collapse pockets from the interior.

Professional Football Landscape

The evolution of NFL defensive schemes has reshaped how teams value defensive tackles, with versatility and pass-rushing ability becoming paramount in today’s game. Teams increasingly seek players who can both anchor against the run and collapse the pocket.

Modern Defense Strategies

NFL defenses have undergone a significant transformation in response to high-powered offenses. Base formations have largely shifted from traditional 4-3 setups to more hybrid schemes, with nickel packages (five defensive backs) becoming the new normal.

Teams now employ multiple fronts throughout games, requiring defensive tackles to master various techniques. The Seattle Seahawks’ early 2010s success popularized the “Bear” front, while the Vic Fangio system—utilizing two-high safety looks—has spread league-wide.

Pass rush has become king in a league where quarterbacks attempt 35+ passes per game. Interior pressure forces QBs to abandon clean pockets, creating opportunities for edge rushers. This explains why athletic defensive tackles like Chris Jones and Jeffery Simmons command premium contracts.

Teams increasingly value defenders who can play all three downs, eliminating the need to substitute based on down and distance.

Role of a Defensive Tackle in Various Schemes

Defensive tackle responsibilities vary dramatically depending on scheme alignment. In 4-3 defenses, the three-technique tackle (lined up outside the guard’s shoulder) must penetrate and disrupt. Meanwhile, the nose tackle occupies blockers and controls gaps.

In 3-4 systems, defensive ends often align as interior defenders. This requires more length and technique to control offensive tackles. The nose tackle must be a space-eater who can anchor against double teams.

DT Position	Primary Role	Key Attributes	Example Player
3-technique	Penetrator	Quickness, burst	Aaron Donald
Nose Tackle	Gap control	Size, strength	Vita Vea
5-technique	Edge setter	Length, power	Cameron Heyward

As we approach the 2025 NFL Draft, defensive tackles with scheme versatility like Broughton provide tremendous value. His 6’4″, 305-pound frame offers potential in multiple alignments.

Modern NFL defensive coordinators seek players who can execute stunts, twists, and various pressure packages. The ability to rush from different alignments is crucial for creating favorable matchups against interior offensive linemen.