Inside the Program: Roster Battles Across Every Position Heading Into Summer

Position battles are heating up across the Texas roster as the team heads into a critical summer stretch. We break down every spot up for grabs and what it means for the Longhorns’ path to success.

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No uncertainty at the top: Arch Manning is the starter. However, there’s a notable competition for the backup role between Matthew Caldwell, Trey Owens, and KJ Lacey. Caldwell brings experience, especially from Troy, and is trusted to keep the offense stable if Manning briefly exits a game. Yet, Steve Sarkisian challenges the younger QBs to outperform him.

Tre Wisner is likely RB1 due to reliability and trust, but Christian Clark and Jerrick Gibson offer serious NFL-caliber talent. CJ Baxter’s recovery from a severe knee injury is progressing, but his role early in the season remains uncertain. A true open competition looms.

Ryan Wingo and DeAndre Moore have locked in starting roles. The WR3 slot is open between Emmett Mosley (valued for intangibles) and Parker Livingstone (more vertical threat). Coaches must choose between blocking consistency and explosive potential.

Transfer Jack Endries alters the tight end room dramatically, lessening pressure on Jordan Washington. Third TE role is competitive, with Emaree Winston, Nick Townsend, and Spencer Shannon showing flashes.

While starting spots for DJ Campbell, Trevor Goosby, and Cole Hutson seem secure, there’s concern about right tackle and left guard. Despite many names, true competition seems lacking. Coaches seek a graduate transfer to boost depth and security.

Texas is expected to roll six deep at DT, with Alex January shining despite youth. Starters may be Cole Brevard and Maraad Watson, but January and Travis Shaw remain strong contenders. The plan mirrors hockey line changes—depth ensures freshness and pressure.

Colin Simmons is projected as an All-American. Backup spots remain in flux: Zina Umeozulu and Lance Jackson among candidates. Trey Moore’s exact fit remains to be defined but his utility is clear.

Anthony Hill is secure. Liona Lefau and Brad Spence are competing closely—Spence has surprised with coverage ability. Bo Barnes will develop behind Hill this year, aiming for a breakout in 2026.

The STAR position (hybrid DB/LB) is key. Jelani McDonald is expected to start due to complexity of the role. Wardell Mack and Graceson Littleton show promise but need more seasoning. Jonah Williams will play in dime packages, not start.

Derrick Williams’ return from ACL is key. If healthy, he starts with Michael Taffe. Behind them are Jordon Johnson-Rubell and Xavier Filsam. Johnson-Rubell is touted as an improved version of former starter Chris Brown.

One spot is secure with Manny Muhammad. Jaylon Gilbeau is strong but faces pressure from Kobe Black and Warren Roberson. Black’s raw talent may shift depth, and Kade Phillips is also lurking.

Ryan Niblett is praised for speed and grit. He’ll be a special teams weapon—punt returner and gunner—but offensive gadget usage remains uncertain due to team depth.

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