Texas EDGE Trey Moore Announces Return for 2026 Season After Consideration of NFL Draft

In a highly anticipated decision for the Texas Longhorns, standout EDGE rusher Trey Moore has officially announced that he will return for the 2026 season after carefully considering the NFL Draft. Moore, one of the most disruptive defensive players in college football, took to social media to confirm his commitment to the Longhorns for another year, sending a wave of excitement through the Texas fanbase.

Moore’s decision to return is a massive victory for the Longhorns’ defense, as it guarantees that one of the nation’s most talented pass rushers will be leading the charge in 2026. His return strengthens Texas’ defense and provides stability to a unit that has already established itself as one of the premier defenses in college football

Trey Moore’s impact on the Texas defense in the 2024 season was undeniable. As one of the most explosive edge rushers in the country, Moore turned heads across the nation with his incredible ability to pressure quarterbacks, stop the run, and create turnovers. Over the course of the season, Moore recorded 10 tackles for loss (TFLs), 5.5 sacks, and three forced fumbles, establishing himself as a nightmare for opposing offenses.

Moore’s pass-rushing ability was perhaps the most notable aspect of his game. His quick first step, combined with his strength and technique, allowed him to routinely get past offensive tackles and wreak havoc in the backfield. His 5.5 sacks tied him for the team lead, and his consistent pressure on the quarterback made it difficult for opposing offenses to operate with any kind of rhythm.

While Moore may not have had a double-digit sack total in 2024, his ability to affect the game in various ways—through pressures, hurries, and disruptive plays—was crucial to the success of the Texas defense. His relentless pursuit of quarterbacks made him one of the most feared pass rushers in the Big 12 and a key component of Texas’ defensive dominance.

In addition to his pass-rushing prowess, Moore was also a key factor in stopping the run. His strength and agility allowed him to disrupt running plays in the backfield, registering multiple TFLs in each game. His ability to contain plays on the edge and collapse the pocket made him a well-rounded defender and a reliable force against both the pass and the run.

His 10 TFLs on the season highlight his ability to contribute in multiple facets of the game. Whether it was on a third-and-long situation or an early-down play, Moore’s ability to make plays behind the line of scrimmage was a consistent presence for the Longhorns’ defense.

Moore’s three forced fumbles were also an essential part of his contributions in 2024. His ability to not only disrupt plays but also create turnovers helped shift momentum in favor of Texas on multiple occasions. His knack for finding the ball and forcing fumbles was a critical aspect of his defensive game, helping Texas’ defense secure possession at key moments during the season.

Moore’s return to Texas for the 2026 season is a huge win for the Longhorns. While many top defensive players opt to enter the NFL Draft after their junior seasons, Moore’s decision to come back gives Texas a dynamic and experienced edge rusher who will be at the center of their defense in the upcoming season.

While Moore undoubtedly had the talent to enter the 2025 NFL Draft, he chose to return to Texas to further develop his game and enhance his draft stock. Throughout the 2024 season, Moore received significant attention from NFL scouts, and his play on the field earned him a spot on several All-Big 12 teams.

However, Moore understands that another year at Texas will allow him to further refine his skills, particularly in areas such as pass rush technique and defensive awareness. A strong 2025 season could elevate his draft stock even further, potentially making him a top-10 pick in the 2026 NFL Draft.

By returning for another year, Moore also demonstrates a commitment to his teammates and to the Texas program. His decision to stay in Austin for his senior season speaks volumes about his leadership and dedication to the team’s goals, including a potential Big 12 Championship and a College Football Playoff appearance.

With Moore’s return, the Texas defense gets a significant boost. His ability to pressure the quarterback, disrupt the run game, and create turnovers makes him one of the top defensive players in the nation. Moore’s presence on the edge will allow Texas defensive coordinator Pete Kwiatkowski to implement even more aggressive schemes, knowing that he has a proven playmaker who can win one-on-one battles.

In addition to his physical ability, Moore’s leadership will be crucial for Texas’ defense in 2026. As one of the most experienced players on the defensive line, Moore can mentor younger players and help establish a winning culture within the defense. His work ethic and determination to improve will undoubtedly influence his teammates and set a strong example for the younger players coming up through the ranks.

With Moore’s decision to return, Texas is now poised to continue its upward trajectory as a program. The Longhorns are coming off an impressive 2024 season, with a strong defense and a high-powered offense led by quarterback Quinn Ewers. Moore’s return ensures that the defense will remain one of the team’s greatest strengths in 2026, and he will be a critical piece in their pursuit of a Big 12 Championship and potential College Football Playoff berth.

The Longhorns will likely face stiff competition in the Big 12, particularly from rivals like Oklahoma and Kansas State, but with a defense led by Moore and other key contributors, Texas will be in an excellent position to challenge for the conference title.

In addition to team success, Moore’s return provides him with the chance to refine his skills and elevate his draft stock. Another strong season in 2025 could make him one of the top pass rushers available in the 2026 NFL Draft, with scouts already keeping a close eye on his development.

Trey Moore’s decision to return for the 2026 season is one of the most important moments in Texas football this offseason. His talent, leadership, and impact on the field are unmatched, and his presence on the team will be a driving force in Texas’ quest for a national championship.

As Moore continues to develop and refine his skills, he has the potential to become one of the top defensive players in college football in 2025. Texas fans will be eager to see what Moore can accomplish in his final season with the Longhorns, and with his return, the team’s championship aspirations are looking brighter than ever.