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Under-the-Radar Texas Freshman DB Earns Honor From ESPN
© Aaron E. Martinez/American-Statesman / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

Texas Longhorns head coach Steve Sarkisian doesn't shy away from giving true freshman significant playing time.

Sarkisian has repeatedly mentioned that it doesn't matter if you're a fifth-year senior or true freshman, what matters most to him is consistency and whether the coaching staff can trust you.

Offensive tackle Kelvin Banks Jr., wide receiver Ryan Wingo, and edge rusher Colin Simmons are just a few of the most recent players to receive significant playing time as true freshman for the Longhorns. It appears cornerback Graceson Littleton is next on the list.

Over the first two weeks of fall camp, Littleton's named has been mentioned by coaches and media on a consistent basis. He notably received first-team reps at the star position and has been featured on special teams.

The confidence and hype surrounding Littleton this season has now reached the national media. Littleton was named one of ESPN's 10 most impactful freshmen for the 2025 season. The former Wiregrass Ranch (Tampa, FL) product landed at No. 10 on the ranking.

"If you were ranking off spring and fall camp performance, Littleton might be at the top of this list as opposed to the bottom," Billy Tucker began. "Littleton is playing fast, physical and opportunistic football."

Tucker concluded by stating Littleton could lock down a starting role to open the season.

As a recruit, Littleton was ranked the No. 10 cornerback in the nation and No. 11 overall prospect in Florida for the 2025 cycle, according to 247Sports.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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