Texas Longhorns LB Shocks Fans by Declaring for NFL Draft—You Won't Believe the Reason!

The Texas Longhorns are set to lose another standout linebacker as Trey Moore has announced his intention to declare for the 2026 NFL Draft. This decision, made public on Thursday, marks Moore as the second player from Texas to enter the draft this offseason, following fellow linebacker Anthony Hill Jr.

Hailing from San Antonio, Moore's journey to this pivotal moment began at Smithson Valley High School before he spent his initial collegiate career with the UTSA Roadrunners. Despite being unranked by most recruiting services coming out of high school, he has transformed into a promising NFL prospect.

Trey Moore's NFL Draft Declaration

In a heartfelt message shared on social media, Moore expressed gratitude for the opportunities he received at both UTSA and Texas, emphasizing that these programs will always hold a special place in his heart. He stated,

“I am extremely grateful and blessed to have had an amazing college football career. Thank you to everyone who has been a part of it. Thank you to UTSA for believing in me when not many did. I will never forget my experiences there, or the greatness we accomplished together. I will always be a Roadrunner.”

Moore, who concluded his message by declaring,

“With that being said, I'm only just getting started. The work continues. I am officially declaring for the NFL Draft,”

captures the ambition and determination that has defined his career thus far.

Career Highlights

Moore's college football career has been marked by significant growth and impressive statistics. After a modest start at UTSA, where he recorded just one tackle in his freshman year in 2021, he quickly made his mark in the following seasons. In 2022, he notched a career-high 56 total tackles, 8 sacks, 2 forced fumbles, and 5 pass breakups, earning himself the title of American Athletic Conference Defensive Player of the Year in 2023. That season, he recorded an outstanding 14 sacks and one interception.

Following his success at UTSA, Moore transferred to Texas before the 2024 season. Although he faced tougher competition in the SEC, he still made a notable impact on an elite Texas defense. In his first season with the Longhorns, he registered 36 total tackles (23 solo), 5.5 sacks, and 3 forced fumbles. The following year, he recorded 34 total tackles (21 solo), 3 sacks, and 3 pass breakups, contributing to the team's defensive prowess.

As he prepares for the next chapter of his career in the NFL, Moore’s journey serves as a testament to the potential that hard work and perseverance can unlock, especially for those who may initially go unnoticed. His progression from an unranked high school player to a sought-after NFL prospect is inspiring and illustrates the unpredictable nature of college football, where talent can emerge from unexpected places.

With the NFL Draft looming, fans and scouts alike will be closely watching Moore's next steps, eager to see how this Texas native's journey unfolds in the professional arena. His declaration signals not only a personal milestone but also underscores the growing reputation of Texas football in molding athletes ready for the next level.