There’s been a whirlwind of activity around the Texas Longhorns football program lately. The team is gearing up for the Citrus Bowl against Michigan, but that’s just the start of the story.
Key players are opting out to prep for the NFL Draft. Others are hitting the transfer portal, and there are even some big coaching changes shaking things up.
Let’s look at the most notable moves from Texas players eligible for the 2026 season. Coaching changes could have a ripple effect on the future too.
Key Player Departures
Several standout Longhorns have announced they’re leaving, either for the NFL or other schools. Here are the biggest names on the move:
Anthony Hill Jr., Junior, LB
Anthony Hill Jr. has been a three-year starter and made All-American. He’s expected to go in the first or second round of the NFL Draft, so honestly, it’s no shock he’s leaving now.
Malik Muhammad, Junior, CB
Malik Muhammad has started for two years and is probably the team’s best cover guy. Losing him leaves a pretty big hole in the secondary.
DeAndre Moore Jr., Junior, WR
DeAndre Moore Jr. was the most experienced receiver on the roster. But with younger guys like Ryan Wingo and Emmett Mosley Jr. climbing the ranks, he’s decided to transfer.
Liona Lefau, Junior, LB
Liona Lefau is another two-year starter and a real leader on defense. He’s expected to finish his college career somewhere on the West Coast, which stings for Texas fans.
Derek Williams Jr., Junior, DB
Derek Williams Jr. started part-time at safety but started losing snaps to younger players. He’s transferring, hoping for more playing time elsewhere.
Quintrevion Wisner, Junior, RB
Quintrevion Wisner racked up more rushing yards and carries than anyone on the team over the past two years. With just one season left, his exit is a tough blow for the running game.
Coaching Changes
The coaching staff isn’t immune to the shake-up either. Defensive changes are front and center.
Defensive Coordinator Changes
Steve Sarkisian let go of defensive coordinator Pete Kwiatkowski and pass defense coordinator Duane Akina. In their place, he hired Will Muschamp to run the defense.
Muschamp brings a ton of experience and, let’s be honest, a reputation for intensity. Some fans are excited; others are cautiously optimistic. We’ll see how it plays out.
Players Returning for 2026
Not everyone’s leaving, thankfully. A few key guys are sticking around, which gives the team some much-needed stability.
Arch Manning, Redshirt Sophomore, QB
Arch Manning is the big one here. Rumors were flying, but his dad, Cooper Manning, confirmed Arch will be back at Texas next year.
That’s huge. Manning’s expected to be the face of the offense, and honestly, it’s hard not to get a little excited about that.
Hero Kanu, Senior, DT
Hero Kanu could’ve gone pro as a mid- or late-round pick. Instead, he’ll use his last year of eligibility at Texas.
He’s emerged as a leader and a reliable force on the interior defensive line. Having him back matters a lot.
Jelani McDonald, Junior, DB
Jelani McDonald became a full-time starter at safety last season. He’s coming back for his senior year, which should help anchor the secondary.
Trevor Goosby, Redshirt Sophomore, OT
Trevor Goosby had a breakout year at left tackle. He hasn’t said much about 2026 yet, but if he returns, that’s a major win for the offensive line.
Uncertain Futures
Some players are keeping quiet about their plans. Fans and analysts are left guessing for now.
Jack Endries, Junior, TE
Jack Endries is a classic NFL-style receiving tight end. He’s widely seen as a mid-round pick, which isn’t too shabby if you ask me.
He says he’ll suit up for the Citrus Bowl. Still, he hasn’t said a word about coming back for the 2026 season—so, who knows?
If you want to dive deeper, the full article’s over at the Statesman.
- Schools Covered
- College Football Articles
- Men's College Basketball Articles
- Men's College Soccer Articles
- Women's College Basketball Articles
- Olympic Athlete Articles
- Men's College Baseball Articles
- College Sports Media Professionals Articles
- Hall of Fame Member Articles
- Former College Player Articles
- Game Previews
