Texas football may lack one freshman superstar in 2026, but Steve Sarkisian’s loaded class could deliver impact players across the entire roster.
Texas football is less than 50 days from opening the 2026 season against Texas State, and Steve Sarkisian may be preparing to unleash his deepest freshman class yet.
This group probably won’t produce an immediate headline machine like Xavier Worthy or Colin Simmons.
But as LonghornsWire wrote, what it could give the Longhorns is something even more valuable ... six or seven young players capable of contributing during a championship chase.
Running back Derrek Cooper leads the offensive newcomers. Cooper has reportedly forced his way into an already crowded competition with Hollywood Smothers and Raleek Brown.
His physical running style gives Texas a different option in the backfield, and it may become increasingly difficult for Sarkisian to justify keeping him on the sideline.
Jermaine Bishop Jr. could become the class’s ultimate wildcard.
Although he’s been working at cornerback, Bishop’s explosiveness with the football makes him a natural candidate for offensive packages, returns and gadget plays.
Texas doesn’t necessarily need him to become a full-time receiver immediately. It just needs to manufacture touches and let him create chaos.
The defensive freshmen may reach the field even faster.
Defensive end Richard Wesley is only 17, but he’s already pushing for snaps behind Lance Jackson.
Linebacker Rocky Cummings has been one of the offseason’s biggest surprises and could enter the season as the backup middle linebacker.
Tyler Atkinson may have to wait for a larger defensive role, but his pass-rushing ability should give Texas a reason to use him in obvious passing situations.
Cornerback Samari Matthews has also positioned himself for early playing time behind Kade Phillips, especially with Kobe Black moving to safety.
Wide receiver Kohen Brown and linebacker Kosi Okpala could become second-half breakout candidates.
Brown reportedly reached 22.7 mph during summer workouts, making him one of the fastest players on the roster.
That speed should earn him special-teams opportunities immediately and could eventually lead to a specialized offensive role.
Okpala’s athleticism gives the Longhorns another potential pressure weapon.
He might not be ready for heavy snaps against an early heavyweight opponent, but his role could expand considerably by the time Texas reaches the heart of its SEC schedule.
That’s what makes this freshman class dangerous.
It may not have one newcomer ready to lead Texas in receiving or sacks but it has something broader in legitimate depth at running back, receiver, defensive end, linebacker and cornerback.
Sarkisian doesn’t need these freshmen to carry the Longhorns. He needs them to strengthen the roster around established stars.
By November, Texas’ most important advantage could be the freshmen who refused to wait their turn.
