Since the end of the 2024 campaign, the Texas Longhorns roster has undergone a lot of change. That is partly due to the NFL Draft, in which 12 Longhorns were selected. Despite the changes, optimism is high in Austin and among some analysts, including Paul Finebaum.
On his SEC Network Show on ESPN, Finebaum broke down the roster turnover over the last few months. Due to the Longhorns’ work in the transfer portal, he sees them as one of the best teams in the SEC.
“There’s a lot of replacing going on at Texas,” Finebaum said. “But, nobody, and I mean nobody, did better in the portal or spent more money than the University of Texas. So, I think they are going to be in good shape depth-wise. It may take a little while, although I don’t think it will. I think they’ll be one of the two or three best teams in the country from the beginning. Win or lose against Ohio State, I still like their chances to win the SEC.”
California transfer Jack Endries is a high quality starter in the portal at tight end
84.5 receiving grade last year #TransferPortal pic.twitter.com/2ruedAB9NM
In the transfer portal, the Longhorns have secured 11 commitments for this season. That list includes defensive tackle Maraad Watson, wide receiver Emmett Mosley V, and tight end Jack Endries. Head coach Steve Sarkisian and his staff were able to address most of their needs and improve on both sides of the ball.
Although the Longhorns have thrived in the portal, they will also welcome a talented freshman class. They have 25 commits heading to Austin for the upcoming season, including multiple five-star recruits. That mix, along with veterans such as Arch Manning and Michael Taaffe, should be enough to keep this team in the playoff chase.
With a roster full of talent, Texas is poised to build on its success from last year and make a title run.
This article originally appeared on Longhorns Wire: ESPN analyst Paul Finebaum has high expectations for Texas Longhorns
Reporting by Jamie Gatlin, Longhorns Wire / Longhorns Wire
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
