Five remaining players Texas should add this offseason
Amidst the seasons end, Steve Sarkisian expressed that he had a goal of adding 33 or more scholarship players players to the team for the 2022 season.
Sarkisian was clearly upset with the lack of depth on the roster, and the lack of production by the players on the roster as well. The Longhorns have worked extremely hard in recruiting this offseason, and have put together a fantastic class that currently ranks as the No. 5 class in 247Sports’ recruiting rankings.
The class is headlined by five-star offensive tackle Kelvin Banks, along with 13 other players across both sides of the line which will address major needs that the roster was lacking this past season when they went 5-7.
There is still some work to be done in terms of adding players, as the Longhorns are four players away from Sarkisian’s goal of 33 new scholarship players and might even be able to surpass that amount.
Here are five players that Texas should add in order to strengthen the roster and the team’s overall depth whether it be recruits or transfers.
Devon Campbell - OG - Bowie High School
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The five-star offensive guard is the last recruit that Texas seems to have on their radar, and his decision is between the Longhorns and Sooners. Even with all the other offensive linemen recruits Texas has brought in, Campbell could end up being the best of the bench. The more depth the better, as this group was by far the worst on the team last season. Texas also seems to be in good standing as they hold five crystal balls in their favor for Campbell.
Drew Sanders - LB - Alabama
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Over his two years as a part of the Crimson Tide, Sanders recorded 33 total tackles, one sack, and two pass deflections. He didn’t have a major role, but he saw significant snaps in big games. Sanders can offer leadership, and has the potential to be a top player for the Longhorns if he is able to show why he was once viewed as a five-star. Texas currently holds a crystal ball for him, and was able to get him to Austin for a visit.
Ochaun Mathis - DL - TCU
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One of the biggest knocks against the Texas front, is the fact that they do not have a game changing pass rusher. Joseph Ossai is not walking through those doors anymore, and he was the last pass rusher that could effect the game for Texas. TCU transfer Ochuan Mathis could be the closest thing to Ossai, and actually make offenses fear the defense. He earned second-team All-Big 12 honors in 2020 and 2021, and he recorded 12.5 sacks in 38 career games. The Longhorns hold a crystal ball for him as well, as he is expected to follow Gary Patterson to Texas, who has been reported as joining the staff.
Jahleel Billingsley - TE - Alabama
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Texas lost their two top tight ends in Cade Brewer (graduation) and Jared Wiley (transfer), which essentially leaves them with three freshman. Billingsley is someone who is renowned for his pass catching ability, and should Texas be able to add him, they would have a great second or third option to pair with the likes of Xavier Worthy and Jordan Whittington. He recently posted an Instagram story showing that he was on a visit at Texas, which is huge for the Longhorns. In three seasons with Alabama, he compiled 37 receptions for 559 yards and six touchdowns. He was recruited by Sarkisian and Jeff Banks, so that could help Texas immensely.
Jacoby Matthews - S - Ponchatoula High School
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Getting Jacoby Matthews is wishful thinking at this point unless the staff can make an insane push before his Feb. 2, commitment. The five-star would be someone who could come in and play right away, and sure up what is looking like a questionable safety situation. It doesn’t hurt to keep trying, but the Longhorns chances at him seem very slim.
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