Longhorns secondary making most of spring practices despite significant changes
With the start of the 2025 college football season drawing closer, the Longhorns have been busy preparing this spring. One group that has gotten a lot of attention in spring practices is the secondary, which will feature a variety of new faces. That is partly due to former stars such as Jahdae Barron entering the NFL Draft.
While plenty of veteran leadership exists, players like Barron will not be easy to replace. However, head coach Steve Sarkisian is not worried, as earlier this week he had high praise for what he has seen from his secondary in spring practices.
“When you look at the secondary as a whole, just body types, skill set, ability, corner, star, safeties, I would argue it’s probably one of our better, if not our best, looking position on the team,” Sarkisian said. “It’s been a group that we’ve really tried to recruit a specific skill set, a specific body type, we’ve got really good length, we’re athletic, we can run in the secondary, and it’s allowing us to play a style over there that I’ve always wanted to be. Very aggressive, guys that can do multiple things.”
Over the last few weeks, several players have stood out to Sarkisian. That list includes senior Jaylon Guilbeau, sophomores Kobe Black and Warren Roberson, and freshmen Kade Phillips, Wardell Mack, and Graceson Littleton. Along with Michael Taaffe, the Longhorns’ defense will not be easy to face.
Additionally, the Longhorns’ secondary is adjusting to a new coaching staff. Over the offseason, Sarkisian brought a trio of new coaches, including Duane Akina. He will serve as defensive pass game coordinator during his second stint with the program.
With games still months away, the Longhorns have plenty of time to build on their skills. Despite new faces and players taking on new roles, the secondary seems poised for success.
Follow us on X/Twitter at @LonghornsWire