Texas Longhorns Football Today | 2 Min News | The Daily News Now!

Texas Football, despite missing out on the College Football Playoff, is fully committed to the Citrus Bowl against Michigan. Head coach Steve Sarkisian emphasizes the teams resilience and focus on player development, potentially setting a new precedent for top programs.

Michael Taaffe, Texas Footballs senior defensive back, was a finalist for the Burlsworth Trophy, recognizing walk-on players. Despite missing games, he led the team in tackles and made key plays. Hes also a finalist for the Allstate Wuerffel Trophy and SEC Community Service Team. Taaffe and the Longhorns face Michigan in the Cheez-It Citrus Bowl on December 31st.

Former Texas Longhorns running back C.J. Baxter, once a promising freshman, has entered the transfer portal due to injury struggles. Despite his talent, Baxters career was marred by an LCL and PCL tear and a hamstring injury, leading to a lackluster senior season. His departure opens the door for new talent, including five-star recruit Derrek Cooper, to take the starting role. This shift underscores the importance of depth and health in college football, as Texas moves forward with a new wave of athletes.

Texas football faces a significant loss as linebacker Anthony Hill Jr. enters the NFL Draft, leaving a void in the defense. Hill, a standout player and leading tackler, also provided a strong pass rush and two interceptions. Coach Sarkisian must now find replacements, with four-star recruits Tyler Atkinson and Kosi Okpala expected to help, but the team will miss Hills aggressive play.

Transfer Portal Season Kicks Off for Texas Longhorns: Aaron Butler, Derek Williams Jr., and Rickey Stewart Jr. Among Potential Departures

Trey Owens, a four-star recruit and backup quarterback for Texas, has entered the transfer portal, seeking new opportunities. Despite his impressive high school career, playing time was limited behind Arch Manning and Matthew Caldwell. Owens departure opens up possibilities for Power Five and upper-Mid-Major programs to recruit him. Meanwhile, Texas looks forward to welcoming top player Dia Bell next year, potentially adding excitement to their future football seasons.

Redshirt freshman defensive lineman Melvin Hills becomes the third Texas Longhorn to enter the NCAA Transfer Portal, joining running back C. J. Baxter and Trey Owens. Hills, a three-star recruit from Louisiana, redshirted his first year and played in four games this past season. He expressed gratitude to the Longhorns but emphasized the need to make the best decision for his future. The transfer portal window opens on January second, and the Longhorns prepare for their upcoming Cheez-It Citrus Bowl game against Michigan on New Years Eve.

Anthony Hill Junior, Texas Longhorns linebacker, has declared for the 2026 NFL Draft, ending his college career. Despite a hand injury, he earned Big Twelve Defensive Freshman of the Year and Second Team All-American honors. Hill amassed 249 tackles, 31.5 tackles for loss, 17 sacks, 3 interceptions, and forced 8 fumbles. Hes remembered as one of Texas best linebackers, known for crucial plays in high-pressure situations.