As Texas football prepares for its second fall camp as a full-time SEC member, the Longhorns face major expectations, and just as many unknowns.
With Arch Manning poised to take the reins and a reshuffled defense in the mix, fall camp will determine whether Texas is ready to take the next step.
There’s no denying the buzz surrounding Arch Manning. He’s a generational talent with elite pedigree and mobility—but his experience is limited to blowout wins over UTSA, ULM, and a struggling Mississippi State. Meanwhile, Quinn Ewers quietly delivered a strong 2024 campaign before heading to the NFL. Manning has the tools, but fall camp will be his first true test as QB1.
Keep an eye on backup Trey Owens, a 6-5 sophomore who could push for meaningful reps if needed.
Quintrevion Wisner was a breakout star in 2024, rushing for 1,064 yards and catching 44 passes.
But questions surround the health of CJ Baxter, who returns from a knee injury, and Christin Clark and Jerrick Gibson, both of whom missed time last year.
Texas returns just one full-time starter—guard DJ Campbell—but talent is not an issue. Trevor Goolsby and Neto Umeozulu look like future NFL linemen, while Cole Hutson is set to replace Jake Majors at center.
How quickly the unit gels will be critical.
With Matthew Golden, Gunnar Helm, and Isaiah Bond gone, the Longhorns are turning to a mix of young stars and proven transfers. Freshman Kaliq Lockett could be the breakout, while Ryan Wingo and Michael Terry III offer big-play potential.
Tight end Jack Endries (Cal) should be a go-to option immediately.
Linebacker Anthony Hill Jr. is the engine, coming off a monster season (113 tackles, 8 sacks). Transfer Trey Moore adds elite pressure off the edge, and the defensive interior gets a major boost from Maraad Watson (Syracuse) and Travis Shaw (UNC).
In the secondary, Malik Muhammad and Michael Taffe anchor a deep, veteran group.
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