Texas Football: Ranking each position group from strongest to weakest
Texas’ offseason featured a high influx of talent for Steve Sarkisian’s team. The Longhorns will now feature a more potent roster with stronger depth than last season.
The roster improved most at skill positions by adding Isaiah Neyor, Agiye Hall, Jahleel Billingsley, and Tarique Milton.
Linebackers coach Jeff Choate improved defensive depth by adding Diamonte Tucker-Dorsey. Dorsey may compete for and win a starting job at inside linebacker prior to the 2022 season.
Much of the conversation this offseason revolves around what they did not add through the portal. Offensive tackles and edge rushers underwhelmed last season, perhaps due in part to new technique and strength and conditioning routines. With Texas unable to bring in elite edge transfers, they may have to manufacture their pass rush.
Here is how I would rank my confidence in each of the position units.
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T-1. Receivers
Syndication: Austin American-Statesman
Since Jahleel Billingsley and Ja’Tavion Sanders are not your typical tight ends, we will combine tight ends and wide receivers. Heading into last season, Jordan Whittington was your only reliable option. Xavier Worthy turned heads becoming arguably the best receiver in the Big 12 conference. The addition of Isaiah Neyor, Tarique Milton, and Agiye Hall only increase confidence in the unit, who combined might now be stronger than the depth at running back.
T-1. Running backs
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Texas boasts one of the deepest running back rooms in college football. Considering who Keilan Robinson has to compete against for playing time, you can’t fault him for having confidence in his team this season. Jonathon Brooks could probably start for half of the teams in the Big 12. For Texas this season, Brooks is fourth on the depth chart.
3. Interior Defensive Line
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The Texas defensive line underperformed last season, but has great players if utilized correctly. Alfred Collins and Byron Murphy have elite upside that could lead to a breakout season for both players.
4. Quarterback
Syndication: Austin American-Statesman
While there are many unknowns about Quinn Ewers, no one can question his toughness or arm talent. Texas increased his chances of success this offseason surrounding him with elite receivers and adding the top offensive line recruiting class in the country.
5. Cornerbacks
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Ryan Watts and Jahdae Barron inspire the most confidence from this group. Watts was a contributor at Ohio State before transferring to Austin, while Barron has become one of the favorites of the coaching staff. Both players should execute the fundamentals, preventing opponents from doing unnecessary damage.
6. Offensive Line
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While the group struggled last season, multiple freshman should crack the first and second string of the depth chart. Junior Angilau anchors the unit. Offensive line coach Kyle Flood will aim to make it the most improved unit on the team.
7. Safeties
AP Photo/Eric Gay
There is no doubt Anthony Cook is one of the best players on the Texas defense. Despite his consistency, performance at the safety position is one of the biggest questions heading into this season. Cook and Kitan Crawford will learn the new position this year, while Jerrin Thompson will look to grow from last season.
8. Linebackers
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Jaylan Ford could become an all-conference linebacker if given enough opportunity this season. Additionally, DeMarvion Overshown and David Gbenda have made nice plays for the Longhorns over the last couple seasons. Luke Brockermeyer led the team in interceptions in 2021. However, the unit as a whole found itself out of position in Steve Sarkisian’s first season. They can still be great, but the unit must improve.
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