Texas football won’t stage a true Orange-White game in 2026, but Steve Sarkisian will still open DKR for fans on April 18 with a scrimmage-style practice.
Texas football fans hoping for the full Orange-White spring game experience this year are getting something a little different.
Steve Sarkisian and the Longhorns are bringing back a public spring event on April 18 at Darrell K Royal–Texas Memorial Stadium, but it won’t be a traditional game.
Instead, Texas will hold an open practice with scrimmage elements as part of Football Fan Day.
The Texas spring game used to be a staple on the Forty Acres. In February, athletic director Chris Del Conte said the program would “give it a go,” which initially created hope that the old format was returning.
But the final plan reflects Sarkisian’s more cautious approach to spring ball, especially with a young roster and limited depth in key areas.
Sarkisian made it clear he still likes the idea of a real game.
“We’ll modify it. It will still be entertaining I think for the fans,” Sarkisian said this week. He added, “Ideally, I would love to play a game.” The issue, he explained, is whether Texas has enough healthy bodies to do it safely, particularly on the offensive line. “When you don’t have quite enough linemen or all of a sudden you get a couple guys hurt, then how do you play?”
His broader reasoning hasn’t really changed.
Sarkisian has pointed to Texas playing 30 games over the last two seasons and sending 25 players to the NFL Combine in that span, all while working in a wave of newcomers and midyear signees.
That’s why he has leaned toward a more NFL-style spring model built around development rather than a one-day showcase.
Fans will still have plenty to do on April 18. Texas says the street fest and team shop fire sale begin at 9:30 a.m., stadium gates open at 10 a.m., open practice starts at 11 a.m., and a post-practice autograph session and on-field photo opportunities will follow.
So no, the spring game isn’t truly back. But Texas is still giving Longhorn fans a look at Arch Manning, Ryan Wingo and the 2026 team before fall camp arrives.
Join our ROUNDTABLE community for FREE! Share your thoughts, engage with our Roundtable writers, and chat with fellow members.
Download the free Roundtable App to stay even more connected!