Almost every Longhorn fan is familiar with the so-called “dark years” of the program — when quality wins were scarce, mediocrity was the norm and Texas football felt far removed from its national standard. Luckily for Texas fans, that narrative is officially dead. Thanks to the consistency brought on by Steve Sarkisian, the Longhorns have reestablished themselves as perennial contenders every fall. And it all starts with talent, both brought in and sent out. After the 2026 NFL Draft wrapped up, Texas is now tied with Georgia and Ohio State for the most NFL Draft picks over the last three years with 29.  That puts Texas ahead of powerhouses like Alabama and Michigan — and it says everything about what Sarkisian has built. Sarkisian has rebuilt the NFL pipeline Texas Longhorns head coach Steve Sarkisian shares laughs with actor Matthew McConaughey. | Scott Wachter-Imagn Images When the NFL Draft rolls around, hearing the names of Texas players called has become the expectation.…