2011 NFL Draft: After Pedestrian Season, Four Longhorns Go in Draft

Despite a less than stellar season for the Texas Longhorns last year, Texas continued its trend of churning out NFL talent, as four Longhorns were selected in this year's NFL Draft.  All were defensive players.

Going first to the Buffalo Bills in the second round was Aaron Williams, a cornerback. Williams has top-end speed, great ball skills and has the ability to be a shutdown corner. He recorded 45 tackles last year and only two interceptions. Williams may see time at safety as well. Williams has the speed,and skills to play immediately.

Next to be taken was Curtis Brown, another defensive back, by the Pittsburgh Steelers in the third round. Curtis Brown played corner at Texas and recorded 23 tackles, one forced fumble and one interception. He played shakily at times in his career, but with the defensive minded Steelers, there is enough of an upside  that he mightl have some production this year. However, I don't see him making much of a serious impact for the Steeler defense.

Taken next by the Arizona Cardinals in the fourth round was Sam Acho at defensive end. Arizona ranked 23rd last year in yards allowed and was 30th in rushing yards allowed out of 32 teams. Acho will help remedy these defensive woes mightily. One of the lone bright spots on a woefully inept Texas team, he recorded 60 tackles last year, forced two fumbles and had an impressive 4.67 40 time at the Combine. Look for the Acho to make an immediate impact for the Cardinals next season.

Lastly, going in the fifth round was Defensive Back Chykie Brown, who was drafted by the Baltimore Ravens. Chykie Brown was a good contributor to the Texas defense last year, recording 16 tackles and one forced fumble. though he was not as much of a role player as Williams was for the defense last year. Brown had his moments and the Ravens could mold him into a contributor for the corner position, but i don't see him starting anytime soon.

Overall, the talent is there for these young men to succeed, but the transition to the NFL is always a tough one. Time will tell if this latest crop of Longhorns make a memorable impact on the NFL or can help their respective teams.