Texas defensive lineman Hero Kanu added 22 pounds this offseason as the Longhorns' leader prepares to anchor the defense and chase a CFP run.
Texas defensive lineman Hero Kanu is getting bigger ... and he believes it could be a major key for the Longhorns’ College Football Playoff push in 2026.
After transferring from Ohio State, Kanu already brought plenty of size to Austin. But the fifth-year senior decided the next step in his development was adding even more power to the interior of the Texas defensive line.
Kanu has bulked up from 299 pounds to 321 pounds, a transformation he believes will help him play what he called “real ball” this season.
The move wasn’t random. It was carefully planned with Texas’ sports science staff.
“We have DEXA scans, nutritionists doing a great job, strength and position coaches … so we collectively made the decision to put on a little bit of weight,” Kanu said. “I feel strong, and I still feel fast.”
Kanu’s energy when talking about the change has been impossible to miss. With a grin and a thick German accent, the defensive tackle joked with reporters about gaining weight when most athletes try to slim down.
His journey has been remarkable. Kanu’s former coach in Germany, Brandon Collier, discovered him as a teenager weighing around 240 pounds. Years later, after time in two elite college programs, Kanu has transformed into one of the most physically imposing players on the Texas roster.
The production backed it up last season. Kanu recorded 30 tackles, four for loss and two sacks while rotating along the defensive front. Now he’s stepping into a bigger role both as a run-stuffer and a leader for younger players in Steve Sarkisian’s defense.
“To see how everyone developed from the winter offseason to spring is great,” Kanu said. “I’m doing my best and using every ability I have to be a great teammate.”
Sarkisian believes that growth is critical.
“When you’re really good up front, it takes care of a lot of issues,” Sarkisian said. “We’ve got a good group, and the usual suspects are there — Hero Kanu, Alex January had a great offseason too.”
Kanu even had the option to enter the NFL Draft, but instead chose to return to Texas.
“Maybe I can upgrade,” he said. “That’s why I’m back here.”