A recent expert panel has compiled a ranking of the twenty finest Texas Longhorns football players ever to wear the burnt orange, spanning more than eight decades of competition. The list weaves together legends from the early Southwest Conference era to the modern NFL stars, offering a panoramic view of the program’s storied legacy.
Hub Bechtol, a star receiver in the 1940s, set the standard for pass catching in his time, lettering three years and helping cement Texas as a powerhouse in the Southwest Conference. His early feats remain a touchstone for future receivers who dream of leaving a similar mark.
Kelvin Banks Jr. arrived as a freshman and quickly became a cornerstone of the offensive line, earning multiple All‑Big 12 and All‑American honors. His versatility and poise paved the way for a seamless transition to the professional ranks, where he continues to influence the game.
A Legacy Across Decades
Jordan Shipley rewrote the record books with unprecedented reception totals, while Steve McMichael later added a unique twist to his career by dominating the defensive line and later entertaining fans in professional wrestling. Scott Appleton’s senior season helped steer Texas to a national championship, underscoring the defensive line’s historic impact.
Earl C. Gilbert made history as the first player to rush for over 1,000 yards in three consecutive seasons, a feat that still stands as a benchmark for running backs. Decades later, Bijan Robinson emerged as a unanimous All‑American and now shines as an All‑Pro running back for the Atlanta Falcons, continuing the lineage of Texas greats in the NFL.
Cedric Benson, a Doak Walker Award winner, brought a relentless rushing style that culminated in an NFL draft pick by the Chicago Bears. Michael Huff, the first Texas player to capture the Jim Thorpe Award, translated his defensive brilliance to the Oakland Raiders, while Jerry Gray’s All‑American defensive back skills earned him a first‑round NFL draft selection.
James Street’s quarterback mastery led Texas to multiple national championships, and Bobby Layne’s rare versatility — excelling at quarterback, defensive back, and even baseball — exemplifies the all‑around talent that has defined Longhorn legends. Their contributions echo through the halls of the College Football Hall of Fame and the Texas Hall of Honor.