JUST IN: Brandon Harris of the Texas Longhorns Has Passed Away
The Texas Longhorns football program, the university community, and the broader college football world were struck with profound sadness today as news broke of the untimely passing of former Longhorns quarterback Brandon Harris. Harris, who had been a key player for the Longhorns during his time in Austin, was only 23 years old at the time of his death.
His sudden passing has sent shockwaves through the Texas football family, and tributes have been pouring in from former teammates, coaches, and fans who remember Harris not only as a talented athlete but also as a compassionate, hard-working, and inspiring young man.
A Life Cut Short
At this time, the exact cause of Brandon Harris’s death remains unclear. The university has not yet released a statement with further details, but they did express their shock and grief at the tragic loss. Harris had recently been involved in community events and was widely regarded for his efforts to give back to his alma mater and his community.
Harris, who was a standout quarterback during his high school days in Texas, made an immediate impact when he joined the Longhorns. His passing has left many to reflect on the life he lived, both on and off the field.
Brandon Harris: A Rising Star
Brandon Harris arrived at the University of Texas as a highly-touted recruit, one of the top quarterbacks in the state of Texas. He was known for his strong arm, exceptional athleticism, and leadership qualities that set him apart from other quarterbacks in his class. As a freshman, Harris impressed coaches with his poise in the pocket and his ability to manage games, quickly earning the starting quarterback job.
In his first season, Harris faced fierce competition within a loaded quarterback room, but he managed to earn the respect of his coaches and teammates with his unwavering dedication. Under the guidance of then-head coach Tom Herman, Harris’s development as a quarterback flourished.
During his sophomore season, Harris had the opportunity to showcase his talents more, leading the Longhorns offense with his ability to read defenses and make critical plays. His agility and vision were noticeable even when the team struggled in certain games, and he earned respect for his resilience and leadership both on and off the field.
Harris had the makings of a future star, and his trajectory within the Longhorns program appeared to be set for greatness. Throughout his college career, he had built a solid reputation as a player who could be relied upon to carry the offense when needed. While he had some ups and downs like many young quarterbacks, his potential was undeniable, and his determination was admired by those who worked closely with him.
Impact On and Off the Field
While Harris was primarily known for his skills as a quarterback, what made him special was his ability to connect with people. Those closest to him often spoke of his character, his work ethic, and his willingness to give back. Whether it was leading youth camps for aspiring athletes, mentoring younger teammates, or contributing to community service projects, Harris consistently worked to make a positive impact beyond just football.
His community involvement was one of the things that made Harris beloved by the Texas community. He was often seen volunteering his time to work with local charities and organizations, providing inspiration to young people in the Austin area. Many former teammates and coaches have expressed their deep admiration for Harris not only as a player but as a person.
Longhorns head coach Steve Sarkisian issued a statement in response to the news of Harris’s passing, saying:
“Brandon was an incredible young man who embodied what it meant to be a Texas Longhorn. His leadership, heart, and dedication to this program and to his teammates were unmatched. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family, and we will do everything in our power to honor his legacy moving forward.”
Several former teammates also took to social media to express their condolences. Quarterback Quinn Ewers, who played with Harris during his time at Texas, wrote:
“Brandon was always there for me, on and off the field. He was someone I could rely on, a true leader and a great friend. My heart goes out to his family, and I know he will be missed by everyone who knew him. We lost a good one.”
Harris’s death has sparked an outpouring of tributes not only from those in the Longhorns community but from across the country, with fans and former teammates from rival programs expressing their sadness. College football is a tightly-knit community, and Harris’s impact on the game, both as a player and a person, was felt far beyond Austin.
A Look Back at Harris’s Career
During his time at Texas, Harris’s career was defined by moments of brilliance and challenges. His ability to command the offense and lead the team in critical situations was key to his success, though the Longhorns as a whole faced several difficult seasons during his tenure. Despite the ups and downs, Harris remained a positive and motivating presence for his teammates, providing leadership when needed most.
One of the defining moments of Harris’s career came in a thrilling game against rival Oklahoma. Although the Longhorns were the underdogs in the matchup, Harris delivered one of his most memorable performances, orchestrating several key drives and leading the team to a dramatic win. The game became a symbol of his grit and tenacity, and many believed it showcased his potential to lead Texas to greater heights.
Throughout his time with the Longhorns, Harris demonstrated his proficiency in both the passing and running game. He was often relied upon for his ability to extend plays with his legs, scrambling out of the pocket to make big throws or pick up crucial first downs. His strong arm was a weapon for the offense, and he displayed an uncanny ability to read defenses and make precise throws under pressure.
Despite the highs and lows, Harris remained a consistent presence for the Longhorns. His resilience and dedication were a constant, and his ability to bounce back from adversity was a source of inspiration to those around him.
Reflections from Teammates and Coaches
As news of Harris’s passing continues to ripple through the Texas football community, several coaches, former teammates, and mentors have shared their reflections on what made Brandon Harris such a special individual.
“He was a leader who showed us how to approach the game with integrity and passion,” said former offensive coordinator Mike Yurcich. “His love for the game was contagious, and he set an example for everyone on the team. Brandon had a way of making everyone feel valued, and that’s why we’re all hurting today.”
Several of Harris’s former teammates, who had the privilege of sharing the field with him, spoke about his infectious enthusiasm. Wide receiver Xavier Worthy tweeted: “Brandon was the heart of our locker room. He always kept us focused, and no matter the situation, he made sure we stayed together. I’m going to miss him.”
Another former teammate, running back Bijan Robinson, shared a heartfelt message as well. “Brandon was more than a teammate—he was a brother. We’ve lost someone who touched so many lives, and my thoughts are with his family. He always had a way of making us laugh, keeping things light, and reminding us of what mattered. He was so much more than a football player.”
What’s Next for the Texas Longhorns
With Harris’s passing, the Texas Longhorns football program will undoubtedly face a period of mourning. His impact on the team both as a player and a mentor to his fellow athletes cannot be overstated, and his memory will live on in the hearts of those who knew him best.
In the coming days, the Longhorns will likely hold a memorial or tribute to honor Harris, where teammates, coaches, and fans can come together to remember the life and legacy of this beloved figure. The team’s next game will undoubtedly be an emotional one, and it is expected that the players will carry Harris’s memory with them as they take the field.
For those closest to Brandon Harris, his passing is a profound loss, one that transcends the game of football. The Texas football family has lost a player who was more than just a talent on the field—he was a leader, a friend, and a source of inspiration. While the pain of his loss is still raw, his legacy will undoubtedly live on in the hearts of all who had the privilege of knowing him.
As the Longhorns move forward, they will do so with the memory of Brandon Harris as a guiding force—one that will continue to inspire future generations of athletes at the University of Texas. His commitment to the game, his community, and his teammates will serve as a lasting example of what it means to be a true leader both on and off the field.
May Brandon Harris rest in peace.