As Texas football opens spring practice, one of the most pressing questions revolves around who will be on the receiving end of passes from highly touted quarterback Arch Manning. Manning, a five-star recruit and the latest in a storied family of quarterbacks, arrives at Texas with enormous expectations. While he will have to compete for the starting job, his presence alone sparks intrigue about who will emerge as his go-to targets.
The Longhorns enter the spring with a mix of returning veterans, incoming freshmen, and transfers, all vying for a role in what could be a high-powered offense. Texas lost key pieces from last year’s team, most notably wide receivers Xavier Worthy and Jordan Whittington, who were instrumental in the team’s success. Their departures create a significant void, making the search for dependable pass-catchers even more urgent.
Returning receivers such as Johntay Cook II and Isaiah Neyor will look to step up and become primary options. Cook, a former highly-rated recruit, flashed his potential in limited action last season. With another year of experience and an expanded role, he has a chance to be a dynamic playmaker. Neyor, on the other hand, is looking to rebound from an injury that derailed his previous season. Before his injury, he was expected to be a significant deep threat, and if he can return to full strength, he could be a crucial target in the offense.
In addition to Cook and Neyor, Texas will also rely on tight end Ja’Tavion Sanders. Sanders has already proven himself as one of the best tight ends in the country, combining size, speed, and hands to create matchup nightmares for opposing defenses. He was a favorite target of Texas quarterbacks last season, and his role should only expand with the new-look passing attack. If Manning ends up winning the starting job, Sanders could quickly become his security blanket over the middle.
Beyond the returning players, Texas has added talented freshmen and transfers who could make an immediate impact. Five-star wide receiver Ryan Wingo headlines the incoming class. Wingo’s combination of size and speed makes him an intriguing option to contribute right away. If he can adapt quickly to the college game, he could find himself in the mix for meaningful snaps.
Another name to watch is Adonai Mitchell, a transfer from Georgia. Mitchell comes with experience from a championship-winning program and has already shown he can perform on the biggest stage. His ability to win contested catches and stretch the field makes him an ideal candidate to fill the void left by Worthy. If he can build chemistry with Manning during the spring, he could establish himself as one of the top receivers in the offense.
Texas also has a few under-the-radar players who could emerge as reliable pass-catchers. Casey Cain has shown flashes in practice but has yet to translate that into consistent production during games. Spring practices will be crucial for him to prove he deserves a bigger role. Additionally, DeAndre Moore Jr., a promising young receiver, could take a leap forward with more opportunities.
The running back position could also factor into the passing game. Texas has a history of utilizing its backs as receivers out of the backfield, and this year should be no different. Jonathan Brooks and CJ Baxter are both capable pass-catchers who can provide check-down options for Manning or whoever wins the quarterback job. Their ability to make plays in space will add another dimension to the offense.
While much of the focus is on the receivers, the offensive line will play a significant role in determining how successful the passing game can be. Texas has invested heavily in improving the line, and with a strong unit protecting the quarterback, the passing attack will have a better chance to develop rhythm and consistency. A clean pocket will allow Manning to go through his progressions and build trust with his receivers.
Ultimately, spring football will be a critical time for Texas to identify its top pass-catching threats. Manning’s talent is undeniable, but even the best quarterbacks need reliable targets to throw to. The next few weeks of practice will provide insight into who can step up and fill the void left by departing stars. With a mix of experienced veterans, talented newcomers, and emerging players, Texas has plenty of options. Now it’s just a matter of finding the right combination to maximize the potential of this passing attack.