Five players that could change the Longhorns portal approach

1 week ago 2

We are less than 24 hours out from Texas taking the field against Michigan, but there is already focus on what comes shortly after: the transfer portal. Tomorrow will do plenty to inform Sarkisian and company's decision over the next two weeks. Certain players can shine tomorrow and change the approach for Texas and how aggressive they have to be at certain positions.

Michael Terry III - RB

This is something of a shock, but it seems Terry has jumped James Simon on the RB depth chart heading into tomorrow. Christian Clark will get the start, but Terry will factor in consistently. There is currently a debate about whether Texas should just reel in one RB or try to get a tandem. If Terry shines along with Clark, one running back addition in the portal could be plenty, freeing up resources for the offensive line.

Emaree Winston - TE

Now, this likely relies more on Jack Endries’ NFL decision, but Winston has a chance to make the need for a pass catching TE a non-worry. Winston is incredibly athletic and alongside Nick Townsend, has made for some incredible confidence moving forward about the TE position. Winston should see the field often tomorrow and if he can make some plays in the pass game, it’s possible Texas is set at TE regardless of Endries’ decision.

Nate Kibble - OL

This is the player I’m most interested to see. There have been rave reviews about Kibble behind the scenes and tomorrow should be his chance to showcase his skills. Texas will be aggressive at OL, particularly IOL, no matter what but if someone like Kibble could step up, there could be less of a need here. Offensive line will be the focus of the portal window for the Longhorns, but Kibble and co. could subside some major worries.

Josiah Sharma - DT

Another player that has begun to shine during bowl prep is Josiah Sharma. The Longhorns seem to be in a great position at DT heading into next season, but there’s always a need for IDL.Particularly with Terry playing more outside, Sharma should see the field early and often. If Sharma could fill out the depth it could take DT off the portal “need” list and on to the “if the right player comes up” list.

Kobe Black - CB

The Longhorns got some good news in the secondary with Wardell Mack now likely to return after flirting with the portal. That could sure up the nickelback position heading into 2026, but outside corners is still a question. That is where Kobe Black comes in. He’s likely to get the start with Kade Phillips and Graceson Littleton, meaning he will have a chance to lock up a starting spot heading into 2026. Texas will always be looking for secondary help, but Black (and Warren Roberson) can subside worries tomorrow.

Jonah Williams - S

At safety, it’s all about the young players. Texas is obviously looking for someone to start opposite Jelani McDonald in 2026 at safety, but Jonah Williams could change that conversation tomorrow. Williams is an incredible athlete and he could grow into a true starter heading into 2026, but without a strong bowl performance, that path is narrow. Texas will need a safety in the portal, the question is: does it need to be a starter or can it be a depth piece?

This article originally appeared on Longhorns Wire: Michael Terry, Kobe Black could alter Sarkisian portal plans tomorrow

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