Former Texas Longhorns Punter Daniel Trejo Drafted by International Football Association’s Dallas Pioneros

Daniel Trejo, who spent just one season as a punter for the Texas Longhorns in 2022, has found an unexpected opportunity to continue his professional football career. On Sunday, Trejo was selected in the sixth round of the inaugural draft of the newly launched International Football Association (IFA) by the Dallas Pioneros. This new league is set to kick off its first season in 2025 with six teams, including the Pioneros, who are based in Dallas, Texas.

Trejo’s journey to the IFA began when he transferred to the University of Texas from Texas Wesleyan University. Though his time with the Longhorns was brief, he made a significant impact. In his lone season with Texas, Trejo punted 45 times for 1,890 yards, averaging an impressive 42 yards per punt. His consistency and leg strength earned him recognition as one of the top punters in the nation during the 2022 season.

Despite his strong performance in Austin, Trejo’s path to the NFL was not as smooth. Although he participated in Texas’ pro day, he did not receive much attention from NFL scouts leading up to the 2023 NFL Draft or afterward. However, his talent and reputation as a solid punter caught the attention of former Texas kicker Cameron Dicker, who recommended Trejo to the Longhorns coaching staff. Dicker praised Trejo’s ability to control the ball and manage various game situations, qualities that helped him excel as a punter in college.

The opportunity with the Dallas Pioneros comes at a time when Trejo is still eager to continue his football career. The IFA, which will feature teams across the United States and Mexico, promises to provide an exciting new avenue for professional athletes to showcase their talents. The Pioneros, led by former Baylor head coach Art Briles, are one of the six teams set to compete in the league’s inaugural season. The Pioneros’ selection of Trejo is a testament to his potential and value in the growing football landscape.

Though his path to the NFL may not have panned out yet, Trejo’s selection by the Pioneros could open doors to further professional opportunities, including possible future stints in the XFL or NFL. With his strong college performance and dedication to the game, Trejo will look to use this new chapter as a springboard to elevate his career to new heights, all while staying close to home in Texas.

As the IFA prepares for its first season in 2025, Trejo’s story serves as a reminder that sometimes, unexpected opportunities can lead to new beginnings, even if the road to success looks different than originally planned.