One of the most physically imposing players on the Texas Longhorns roster, 43-game starter DJ Campbell is preparing to make the leap to the pros in the upcoming 2026 NFL Draft.
As a dependable starter with a mean streak that offensive line coaches love, Campbell has generated interest from NFL front offices and recently participated in the 2026 NFL Combine. With size, power, and experience, Campbell is poised to compete for a roster spot.
DJ Campbell (6’2 321) Texas+ Three-year starter+ Natural leverage+ Physical in the run game+ Durability with over 800 snaps played in each of the last 3 seasons+ Seeks contact in pass protection+ 77.6 pass block grade in 2025– 25 career penalties with 10 of them coming… pic.twitter.com/npGiJeKERu
— Bengals & Brews (@BengalsBrews) January 30, 2026
A consensus five-star prospect and the nation’s top IOL in 2022, Campbell committed to the Longhorns alongside 2025 NFL draftees Kelvin Banks and Cam Williams as part of offensive coordinator Kyle Flood’s program-changing offensive line class.
After seeing limited action as a freshman, Campbell took over the right guard position as a sophomore and went on to start 43 consecutive games for the Longhorns. He was a member of an offensive line that was Joe Moore Award semifinalists and another that was Joe Moore Award finalists.
Texas RG DJ Campbell on the move. Somebody's about to get whomped. pic.twitter.com/WpQFbhk1Zq
Campbell’s tape shows improvement over time — he is not the same player as he was in 2023 and NFL coaching staffs will likely be most excited about his frame and tenacity. At 6’3 and 313 pounds with 34 1/4” arms, Campbell has the necessary size to immediately jump to the NFL.
His film conveys a player that likes to destroy defenders. Whether it’s sinking his hips to kill a rush or opening holes in the run game, Campbell is tough.
Another positive of Campbell’s is his durability. Starting 43 consecutive games is no small feat. His experience and toughness are major pluses.
Texas guard DJ Campbell vs Mason Graham & Kenneth Grant. + some Ewers dimes pic.twitter.com/ogUVC0jmAX
Compared to his peers, Campbell lacks some of the technique and bend that NFL coaches might seek out. In pass protection or when asked to block in space, Campbell has struggled at times. His pass-blocking grade of 78.4 ranking 108th out of qualified offensive guards while his run-blocking grade of 73.7 slotted in at 41st, according to PFF.
Lastly, NFL coaches may be concerned with the amount of penalties that he was called for, especially as a senior. In 2025, Campbell was called for eight penalties.
Ultimately, Campbell possesses a nice blend of size, toughness, and experience that will appeal to NFL front offices. His overall physicality is evident on tape and he has shown improvement in pass protection that should further improve under an NFL offensive line coach.
Currently projected as a late-selection or priority undrafted free agent, Campbell will have every opportunity to earn a roster spot, and if he can clean up some of the penalties, he has the tools to carve out a role in the NFL.