Vernon Broughton Selected by Saints in 2025 NFL Draft

New Orleans, LA — The New Orleans Saints selected defensive tackle Vernon Broughton from the University of Texas at Austin with the 71st overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft on Friday, April 25, 2025.

Broughton, a 6-foot-5 senior from Houston, Texas, became a prominent figure on the Texas defensive line during his five-year career. He recorded a career-high 39 tackles and four sacks in the 2024 season, showing his prowess in the trenches.

In total, Broughton made 69 career tackles, including 11 tackles for loss, six sacks, and four fumble recoveries. His performance against Mississippi State in Texas’s SEC debut stood out, where he made five tackles, one sack, and forced a fumble.

During his final college season, Broughton also played a key role in the Longhorns’ two postseason games, contributing significantly with 11 combined tackles. His two sacks and fumble recovery helped Texas secure a crucial victory against Texas A&M.

According to NFL draft analyst Lance Zierlein, Broughton showcases quickness and an impressive range as a tackler. His skill set allows him to be an instinctive rusher, creating havoc with his length and footwork.

Broughton is the sixth Longhorn selected in the 2025 draft, and he is the second defensive lineman from Texas to be drafted this year, joining Alfred Collins who was picked by the San Francisco 49ers.

The NFL Draft will continue through Saturday, with all eyes on the remaining 14 former Longhorns hoping to hear their name called.