Part One of a Comparison of the Texas Longhorns’ 2025 and 2024 rosters
The University of Texas Longhorns football team is one of the most storied programs in college football history, and with each new season, fans eagerly await the emergence of fresh talent and the development of returning players. As we look ahead to the 2025 season, it’s important to reflect on how the roster for the upcoming season compares to that of 2024. In this comparison, we will delve into changes in player composition, key position battles, incoming recruits, and how the coaching staff is adjusting to make the most of these changes. This analysis will focus on the most impactful players, position groups, and overall team strategy for both seasons.
1. Quarterback Position
The quarterback position is always a key focus when comparing rosters from one year to the next, especially for a high-profile program like Texas.
2024 Quarterback Room
Heading into the 2024 season, the Texas Longhorns were set to rely heavily on Quinn Ewers, a talented signal-caller with a lot of hype surrounding his potential. As a former 5-star recruit, Ewers showed flashes of brilliance during the 2023 season but also dealt with inconsistency. He had the physical tools to excel, but his decision-making and development as a leader were crucial to Texas’ success in 2024. Behind Ewers, the Longhorns had several promising quarterbacks, including Arch Manning, a true freshman who was also a 5-star recruit, though many expected him to take a back seat in 2024.
2025 Quarterback Room
The 2025 roster shows noticeable changes in the quarterback room. Assuming Ewers declares for the NFL Draft after the 2024 season (a highly likely scenario given his draft potential), the starting job will likely fall to Arch Manning, who will have had a year to develop under the coaching staff’s tutelage. Manning, despite being a freshman in 2024, was widely regarded as one of the top quarterback prospects in the country, and fans are eager to see how his skill set translates to the college level. Along with Manning, the Longhorns may also have a more experienced backup quarterback, possibly one from the 2024 class who has developed in the program for a year or two.
2. Running Back Position
Running back is another area where the Longhorns have seen change, and with the program’s recent emphasis on balance and versatility, it’s a position that warrants close attention.
2024 Running Backs
In 2024, Texas was expected to rely heavily on Jonathon Brooks, who was poised for a breakout season as the lead back after the departure of Bijan Robinson in 2023. Brooks showed flashes of brilliance in 2023, and there was excitement surrounding his potential to step into the role of RB1. Behind him, the Longhorns had a talented group of backs, including Jaydon Blue, a young player with explosive potential, and Cedric Baxter Jr., a highly-touted freshman.
2025 Running Backs
By 2025, the Texas running back room will likely see new faces in prominent roles. While Brooks could potentially return for his senior season, it’s more likely that Texas will have a mix of young talent and veteran leadership. The emergence of Cedric Baxter Jr. and other young running backs could mean the Longhorns’ rushing attack is more dynamic, with a focus on speed and versatility. The 2025 roster may also feature a highly-ranked recruit in the class of 2025, giving the team even more depth at the position.
3. Wide Receiver Position
Wide receiver is an area of strength for Texas, and the 2025 roster could feature some of the most dynamic pass-catchers in the country.
2024 Wide Receivers
In 2024, Texas had a solid group of wide receivers, headlined by Xavier Worthy, who was expected to be the top target in the passing game. Worthy was a game-changer for the Longhorns in 2023 and was anticipated to build on that success in 2024. Alongside him, players like Jordan Whittington and Ja’Tavion Sanders (tight end) provided a diverse and dangerous passing attack. The Longhorns’ offense was expected to take a balanced approach, utilizing their receivers in different roles, from deep threats to possession receivers.
2025 Wide Receivers
Looking ahead to 2025, the Longhorns will likely have a younger receiving corps with significant potential. While Worthy’s status after 2024 remains uncertain, the 2025 group could include breakout stars who emerged as key contributors in 2024. Texas has an impressive recruiting class, and some of these new players could make an immediate impact. The combination of returning veterans and fresh talent could help elevate Texas’ passing game, with a focus on both vertical and short-yardage passing.
4. Offensive Line
The offensive line is an area of both continuity and change for the Longhorns, with a number of key players set to leave after the 2024 season.
2024 Offensive Line
Heading into 2024, the Longhorns were expected to have a solid offensive line anchored by veterans like Kelvin Banks and DJ Campbell. Texas’ offensive line was one of the best in the Big 12, and they were poised to open up holes for the running game while giving Ewers and Manning time to operate in the pocket. Depth was a strong suit in 2024, with the Longhorns having several quality backup options.
2025 Offensive Line
By 2025, the Longhorns will need to replace a few key pieces of their offensive line. The departures of key players like Banks (if he enters the draft) will open up spots for younger linemen to step up. Texas’ 2025 offensive line could see an influx of new talent, as the program has recruited heavily at the position. A mix of returning players and highly-touted recruits will likely be tasked with maintaining Texas’ physicality up front.
5. Defensive Line
The defensive line is one of the most important areas to address in any roster comparison, as a strong defensive front is essential for both stopping the run and pressuring the quarterback.
2024 Defensive Line
The Longhorns’ defensive line in 2024 was a formidable unit, led by players like T’Vondre Sweat and Byron Murphy. Texas had a deep rotation of linemen, which helped them apply pressure on opposing quarterbacks and stop the run. The defensive line was a strength for the Longhorns, and it was expected that they would continue to dominate in 2024, contributing to one of the more fearsome defensive fronts in college football.
2025 Defensive Line
In 2025, Texas will likely have to replace some of its key contributors, such as Sweat and Murphy, though the team will still have a lot of talent. Texas has recruited well on the defensive line, so the 2025 group could feature some young but talented players who are ready to step in. Players like Vernon Broughton, who showed potential in 2024, could take on a larger role, and the development of younger recruits will be crucial to maintaining the Longhorns’ dominance up front.
6. Linebackers and Secondary
The linebacker and secondary positions are critical to Texas’ defensive success. Both position groups are expected to see a mix of experienced players and newcomers in 2025.
2024 Linebackers and Secondary
In 2024, Texas had a solid group of linebackers, including veterans like DeMarvion Overshown, who had been a key player in 2023. The secondary was also deep, with players like Jahdae Barron and Jerrin Thompson expected to lead the charge in the backfield. Texas’ defense was expected to be among the nation’s best in 2024, with an emphasis on versatility and speed.
2025 Linebackers and Secondary
By 2025, the linebacker and secondary positions could see more turnover, with several veterans potentially moving on. However, Texas’ recruiting success in recent years suggests that the team will have talented replacements ready to step in. The secondary may see more players with high-end speed and coverage ability, while the linebacker corps may be bolstered by younger, more athletic players.
As we look ahead to the 2025 Texas Longhorns roster, there will be significant turnover from the 2024 team, but also exciting new talent emerging at key positions. The quarterback situation, in particular, will be a major storyline, with Arch Manning potentially taking over the starting role. The running back room will see further development, while the receiving corps remains a strength. The offensive line may have some question marks, but the defensive line should continue to be a powerful unit. Linebackers and the secondary will undergo some changes, but the talent pipeline remains strong.
In the next part of this comparison, we will dive deeper into the specific recruiting classes, the development of underclassmen, and the long-term strategic adjustments made by the coaching staff to ensure Texas remains competitive at the highest level of college football.