What's Happening?
The Texas Longhorns football team is experiencing significant roster changes as offensive lineman Neto Umeozulu has entered the transfer portal. Umeozulu, who spent four seasons with the Longhorns and
made 24 appearances, including 11 in the 2025 season, is the latest player to leave the team following their Citrus Bowl victory over Michigan. This move follows the departure of another offensive lineman, Connor Stroh. Umeozulu, rated as the No. 48 recruit and the No. 2 interior offensive lineman by On3, did not start any games for Texas but gained valuable experience against SEC defenses. The Longhorns have been known for their strong offensive lines, but recent performances have been inconsistent, particularly in the running game, which averaged just 3.9 yards per carry this season.
Why It's Important?
The departure of Neto Umeozulu highlights ongoing challenges within the Texas Longhorns' offensive line, which has struggled to meet expectations. The team's running game, ranked 101st nationally, has been a point of concern, and the loss of experienced linemen could further impact their performance. As the Longhorns transition towards a potentially pass-first offense under quarterback Arch Manning, securing skilled offensive linemen will be crucial to protect against elite SEC pass rushers. The team's ability to attract top talent through the transfer portal will be vital in maintaining competitiveness in the highly competitive SEC.
What's Next?
The Texas Longhorns are likely to pursue offensive linemen in the transfer portal who excel in pass blocking to support their evolving offensive strategy. Head coach Steve Sarkisian has acknowledged the need for depth in the offensive line, especially with the anticipated shift towards a pass-heavy offense. The team's recruitment efforts will focus on securing a true No. 1 wide receiver and bolstering the offensive line to enhance their scoring capabilities. The Longhorns' success in these areas will be critical as they prepare for the 2026 season in the SEC.
