Jahdae Barron shares importance of familiarity of defensive coaches

Heading into Year Three of Steve Sarkisian, Texas has most of the initial staff still intact. Running backs and wide receivers have seen new faces but everywhere else, Sarkisian’s hires back before the 2021 season are still on the 40 Acres. Dividends are beginning to be paid off, especially for defensive coordinator Pete Kwiatkowski.

Texas saw multiple players emerge on defense last year, including cornerback Jahdae Barron. He says having the same coaches have been a positive, calling it a “family.” When being around the same position coach for the majority of your college career can create close relationships.

“It’s like a family,” Barron said. “We’re all sticking together. Like, we’re all in this together. They ain’t going anywhere, we ain’t going nowhere. So, it’s just a bond we’re creating right now.”

Barron is a fourth-year player, originally playing under head coach Tom Herman. However, since Sarkisian and Kwiatkowski took over, Baron has been working with defensive backs coach Terry Joseph. Blake Gideon is considered the safeties coach as well.

In 13 games played last season, Barron started in nine of them. He recorded 78 tackles and 11.5 tackles for a loss. Barron was a top performer when dropping back in coverage as well, having two interceptions and five passes defended. A major contributor for the Longhorns in 2022.

Similar numbers will be expected of Barron this upcoming fall. He is one of the headliners for Kwiatkowski after deciding to return to college for another season. Then by this time next year, Barron will be off and preparing for the 2024 NFL Draft.

Texas banking on secondary heading into 2023 season

Barron is one of the best defensive backs on the 2023 roster and has slotted well into the nickel role. Those on the outside are likely to be Ryan Watts and Gavin Holmes, who were both added via the NCAA transfer portal. A talent group at the Longhorns’ disposal.

Different spots for Kwiatkowski are not too experienced. Linebacker alongside Jaylan Ford will be a new starter, attempting to replace DeMarvion Overshown. Depth at the two edge positions is the biggest question mark as well, with there not really being an elite talent.

If Texas is going to have a successful season, all three are going to have to play up to expectations. Some quality receivers fall on the schedule but those in Austin will feel confident in the head-to-head matchup.