As the college football landscape continues to evolve, the transfer portal has become one of the most significant mechanisms for teams to improve their rosters quickly. With the 2024 season winding down, teams across the country are already eyeing the December 9 opening of the transfer portal window as a prime opportunity to address their needs and build for the future. For the Texas Longhorns, this window presents a crucial chance to solidify their roster as they transition into the SEC.
With a strong 2024 campaign so far, including a high-powered offense led by quarterback Arch Manning and a promising defense under head coach Steve Sarkisian, Texas has a foundation of talent that could be a contender for years to come. However, as is the case with any program, there are areas that could be strengthened through the portal to ensure the Longhorns remain competitive on a national level. So, where does Texas need help?
One of the most pressing concerns for Texas heading into the transfer portal is depth on the offensive line. While the Longhorns have been solid up front, particularly with players like Kelvin Banks at left tackle and Junior Angilau at guard, the team has been relatively thin when it comes to quality depth beyond its starting five.
Injuries and the physical demands of the SEC will require more than just a solid starting unit—Texas needs reliable backups who can step in when necessary and provide quality play in critical situations. The offensive line has been a weakness for Texas in years past, and while the Longhorns have made significant strides under Sarkisian, reinforcing this position through the portal would give the program much-needed insurance for the future.
A player with experience in a top-tier conference could be a game-changer, giving Texas the flexibility to rotate linemen and avoid the wear and tear that often takes a toll over a 12-game SEC schedule.
While Texas boasts a talented and physical defense, one area where they could use additional depth and experience is in the secondary. The Longhorns have a promising group of cornerbacks and safeties, but with key players like Jerrin Thompson and Jaylan Ford moving on, the team will need to replenish its depth to avoid any significant drop-offs.
The SEC is known for its high-powered passing attacks, and having a solid group of defensive backs will be crucial for Texas to compete at the highest level. A seasoned cornerback or safety from the transfer portal could step in and provide immediate experience, bolstering the defense against some of the most explosive offenses in the country.
A player with the ability to lock down receivers on the outside or be versatile enough to help against the run would be a great addition for Texas as they aim to strengthen their pass defense and continue building one of the most complete defenses in the nation.
While Texas has a solid receiving corps featuring the likes of Xavier Worthy and Adonai Mitchell, the Longhorns could stand to add another playmaking wide receiver to the mix. Depth is a critical factor in the passing game, especially as they move into the SEC, where matchups against elite defenses like Alabama, Georgia, and LSU are frequent.
A dynamic, game-breaking wide receiver who can stretch the field and complement the talents of Worthy and Mitchell would give Manning a trio of dangerous options in the passing game. With the growing importance of passing offenses in the SEC, having more weapons on the outside could be a difference-maker in Texas’ ability to compete for championships.
Additionally, bringing in a wide receiver with experience could help the team as it adapts to the physicality and pace of the SEC, where the best wideouts are often expected to contribute immediately.
While Texas’ running back group is led by the talented Jonathon Brooks, the team could benefit from adding depth to the position. The transfer portal could provide an opportunity to bring in a proven back with a different skill set—whether that’s a bruising back capable of grinding out tough yards between the tackles or a change-of-pace back who can catch passes out of the backfield and provide a spark.
Injuries to key running backs have plagued programs across the country, and Texas is no exception. With a full 12-game SEC schedule, having a solid rotation at running back will be crucial to keeping the offense balanced and fresh. A veteran back could also provide leadership in the locker room and take some of the pressure off of Brooks, allowing him to continue developing without shouldering the entire load.
While Texas is set at quarterback with the highly touted Arch Manning, the Longhorns would be wise to add depth to the position through the transfer portal. With Manning stepping into a leadership role, having a reliable backup with experience in big games could provide reassurance for both the coaching staff and fans.
A quarterback with SEC experience could also help ease Manning’s transition into the most competitive conference in college football. The team’s quarterback room needs a solid No. 2 to step in if necessary, and a transfer portal addition with experience could elevate the room’s overall strength and provide a safety net for the future.
As the transfer portal window opens on December 9, Texas has the chance to address some key areas of need in preparation for their transition into the SEC. Whether it’s reinforcing the offensive line, bolstering the secondary, adding more depth at wide receiver and running back, or securing a reliable quarterback backup, the portal offers the Longhorns an opportunity to fine-tune their roster and ensure that they’re ready to compete at the highest level.
With a strong foundation already in place, these strategic additions could be the difference in Texas’ quest to reach the top of the SEC and continue their pursuit of national championships in the years to come.