Spring has arrived in Austin, and with it, the Texas Longhorns are back on the field, kicking off their spring practices in preparation for what promises to be a pivotal season. With high expectations surrounding the program after a strong 2024 campaign, head coach Steve Sarkisian and his staff are working to refine their roster, address key positional battles, and set the tone for what could be a championship-caliber season.

As the Longhorns embark on their spring workouts, there is a palpable sense of excitement—mixed with a dose of uncertainty. Texas is coming off a season in which they competed for a College Football Playoff berth, but now, with a changing roster and an impending move to the SEC, they must prove they belong among the elite programs in college football. With a blend of returning talent and fresh faces, spring practice will be critical in answering some of the biggest questions facing the team.

Texas Enters Spring with Championship Aspirations

The Longhorns have long been one of college football’s most storied programs, but in recent years, they have fallen short of national championship contention. However, Sarkisian has steadily rebuilt the program, bringing in top-tier talent through recruiting and the transfer portal.

Now, heading into the 2025 season, Texas has a chance to make a serious run. The Longhorns return several key players from last year’s squad, but they also must replace some crucial contributors. With the move to the SEC looming, Texas knows that the margin for error will be even smaller, and preparation during spring practice will be essential in building the foundation for success.

Key Roster Questions as Spring Practice Begins

While expectations are sky-high, Texas still has plenty of questions to answer as spring practice unfolds. From the quarterback position to the trenches, several position battles will be worth watching over the next few weeks.

1. Who Wins the Quarterback Battle?

One of the biggest storylines heading into spring practice is the quarterback position. Texas saw Quinn Ewers lead the team last season, but now, all eyes are on the competition between rising star Arch Manning and Maalik Murphy.

Manning, the highly-touted recruit from the famous Manning family, has spent the past year developing under Sarkisian and is expected to push for the starting role. Meanwhile, Murphy, who has impressed with his arm strength and mobility, is also in the mix.

Sarkisian has yet to name a definitive starter, but the battle between Manning and Murphy will be the main storyline throughout spring and into fall camp. Longhorns fans are eager to see if Manning can live up to the hype, or if Murphy can stake his claim as the next great Texas quarterback.

2. Replacing Key Departures on Offense

Beyond the quarterback position, Texas has significant roster holes to fill on offense. The Longhorns must replace standout wide receiver Xavier Worthy, who declared for the NFL Draft after a stellar career in Austin. Worthy was a game-changing playmaker, and finding a new go-to receiver will be a priority.

Johntay Cook II and Isaiah Bond, a transfer from Alabama, are expected to take on bigger roles, but Texas will need younger players to step up as well. Freshman Ryan Wingo is an exciting prospect who could make an immediate impact.

At running back, Texas is in a better position, with Jonathon Brooks and CJ Baxter returning to form a formidable backfield. However, offensive line play will be crucial in ensuring the offense runs smoothly, especially with new faces stepping into key roles.

3. Defensive Adjustments and Emerging Stars

Defensively, Texas took major strides last season under coordinator Pete Kwiatkowski, but with key players departing for the NFL, the Longhorns will need others to emerge as leaders.

The defensive line lost standout tackle T’Vondre Sweat and edge rusher Barryn Sorrell, meaning that the Longhorns will be looking for young players to step up. Alfred Collins, Vernon Broughton, and transfer additions will be crucial in filling the gaps.

The linebacker position remains solid with Jaylan Ford returning, but the secondary will need to replace safety Jalen Catalon and cornerback Ryan Watts. Malik Muhammad is a name to watch at cornerback, and freshman Xavier Filsaime could make an early impact at safety.

4. Adapting to the SEC Challenge

This spring is not just about preparing for the upcoming season—it’s also about laying the groundwork for Texas’ transition into the SEC. The Longhorns officially join the SEC in 2025, and that move brings an entirely new level of competition.

Texas will need to be bigger, stronger, and faster to compete with teams like Alabama, Georgia, and LSU. Sarkisian and his staff have recruited with this transition in mind, focusing on adding size and depth in the trenches. This spring will be an early test to see how well Texas is adjusting to the increased physicality and speed of the SEC.

What to Watch for During Spring Practice

As spring practice unfolds, here are a few key areas to keep an eye on:

1. Quarterback Development – How does Arch Manning look? Can Maalik Murphy push him for the starting job?
2. Wide Receiver Rotation – Who emerges as the primary pass-catching target?
3. Defensive Line Depth – Can Texas replace the production lost from last year’s dominant defensive front?
4. Offensive Line Growth – Is the O-line prepared for the tougher competition in the SEC?
5. Overall Physicality – Are the Longhorns physically ready to make the jump to the SEC?

With Sarkisian leading the way, Texas has all the tools necessary to succeed. However, the work done in spring practice will go a long way in determining whether the Longhorns can finally live up to the national championship expectations that have surrounded the program for years.

Conclusion: The Longhorns Must Prove They Belong Among the Elite

As Texas begins its spring practice, the stakes couldn’t be higher. The Longhorns have all the ingredients of a championship-caliber team, but they must answer key questions about their roster, find new playmakers, and solidify their depth in order to compete at the highest level.

With the SEC transition looming, Texas knows that this spring isn’t just about the 2025 season—it’s about proving that they belong among the elite programs in the nation. If the Longhorns can fine-tune their roster, settle the quarterback situation, and maintain their defensive dominance, they will have a legitimate shot at contending for a title.

For Longhorns fans, the excitement is real. The question now is whether this team can take the next step and turn potential into results. As the practices continue and position battles intensify, all eyes will be on Austin to see if Texas is truly ready to reclaim its place at the top of college football.