A Comprehensive Analysis of the Texas Longhorns’ 2025 Spring Football Roster: Evaluating Key Players, Position Battles, and Emerging Talents as Steve Sarkisian’s Team Gears Up for a Championship Run
As the Texas Longhorns prepare for the 2025 spring football season, anticipation is high in Austin. Head Coach Steve Sarkisian, entering his fifth year at the helm, has meticulously crafted a roster blending seasoned veterans, promising young talent, and strategic transfers. This comprehensive analysis delves into each position group, highlighting key players, potential position battles, and emerging stars poised to make an impact.
Quarterbacks
The quarterback position is under intense scrutiny following the departure of Quinn Ewers to the NFL. Ewers, who led the Longhorns to a successful 2024 season, leaves big shoes to fill. The primary contender for the starting role is sophomore Arch Manning, a highly touted recruit with a storied family legacy in football. Manning saw limited action in the previous season but displayed flashes of brilliance that have fans optimistic about his potential.
Pushing Manning for the starting spot is junior CJ Rogers, a transfer from Houston Christian. Rogers brings experience and a strong arm to the competition, making the quarterback battle one of the most intriguing storylines of the spring. Additionally, freshman phenom Michael Terry III, a dual-threat quarterback with exceptional athleticism, has committed to Texas and could add depth to the position. Terry’s versatility and playmaking ability make him a candidate for specific packages or a potential redshirt season to develop further.
Running Backs
The Longhorns’ backfield is anchored by junior Quintrevion Wisner, who returns as the leading rusher from the previous season. Wisner’s combination of speed, vision, and toughness makes him a focal point of the offense. Complementing Wisner is sophomore Cedric Baxter Jr., a powerful runner who excels in short-yardage situations. Baxter’s physicality provides a change of pace and keeps defenses on their heels.
Adding depth to the running back room are redshirt freshmen Tre Wisner and Jaden Blue. Both players have shown promise in practice and are eager to contribute. The competition among these backs will be fierce, with each bringing a unique skill set to the table. The versatility and depth in this group allow for creative offensive schemes, including two-back sets and specialized roles in the passing game.
Wide Receivers
The receiving corps underwent significant changes with the departures of Isaiah Bond and Matthew Golden to the NFL, as well as Johntay Cook II entering the transfer portal. Despite these losses, the Longhorns boast a talented group of wideouts ready to step up.
Junior DeAndre Moore Jr. leads the unit, bringing experience and reliable hands. Moore’s route-running precision and ability to find soft spots in coverage make him a dependable target. Sophomore Ryan Wingo, who had a breakout freshman season, is expected to take on a more prominent role. Wingo’s speed and playmaking ability make him a deep threat defenses must account for.
Redshirt freshmen Aaron Butler and Freddie Dubose add depth and potential. Both have impressed in practice with their athleticism and catching ability. Incoming freshman wide receivers Kaliq Lockett and Jaime Ffrench, both highly rated recruits, are expected to compete for playing time immediately. Their integration into the offense could provide the Longhorns with a dynamic and versatile receiving corps capable of stretching the field and creating mismatches.
Tight Ends
The tight end position is headlined by senior Ja’Tavion Sanders, a versatile player known for his blocking and receiving skills. Sanders’ ability to line up in multiple positions makes him a valuable asset in Sarkisian’s offense. Backing him up is junior Gunnar Helm, who has shown reliability in both pass-catching and blocking duties. Helm’s development over the past seasons positions him as a key contributor, especially in two-tight-end sets.
Redshirt freshman Will Randle and incoming freshman Jordan Washington provide additional depth. Both are talented players with high ceilings, eager to learn and contribute. The tight end group offers flexibility in offensive formations, allowing for creative play-calling and the ability to exploit defensive mismatches.
Offensive Line
The offensive line returns several key players, providing stability and experience. Senior DJ Campbell anchors the line at right guard, bringing leadership and a physical presence. Campbell’s consistency and technique make him a cornerstone of the offensive front.
At left tackle, sophomore Kelvin Banks Jr. is expected to protect the quarterback’s blind side. Banks’ athleticism and footwork have drawn praise from coaches and scouts alike. Junior Hayden Conner mans the left guard spot, known for his toughness and run-blocking prowess. Conner’s ability to open lanes for the running game is crucial to the offense’s success.
The center position is a battle between junior Connor Robertson and sophomore Cole Hutson. Both have game experience and a strong understanding of line calls and protections. This competition is expected to elevate the play of both players, ensuring the center position is a strength.
At right tackle, sophomore Cameron Williams is projected to start, bringing size and agility to the position. Williams’ development has been a focal point for the coaching staff, and his performance will be key to the line’s overall effectiveness. Depth is provided by redshirt freshmen Neto Umeozulu and Malik Agbo, both of whom have shown potential and are ready to step in when needed. The offensive line’s cohesion and performance will be critical in both protecting the quarterback and establishing the run game.
Defensive Line
The defensive line is bolstered by key returnees and impactful transfers. Senior edge rusher Trey Moore leads the group, coming off a season where he consistently disrupted opposing offenses.
