The University of Texas Longhorns football program enters the 2024 offseason with high expectations, thanks in large part to the arrival of Arch Manning, the highly touted freshman quarterback. Manning’s commitment to the Longhorns in 2023 was one of the most significant recruiting coups in recent college football history. His addition to the roster has shifted the narrative around Texas football, setting the stage for a potentially transformative season. However, while all eyes are on Manning, the development of several other key players will be just as important if Texas is to return to championship contention.
The road to success in college football is rarely paved with a single player’s talent, no matter how exceptional. It requires contributions from multiple positions across the field, and in 2024, the Longhorns will need a variety of players to step up and develop their games in critical ways. Manning may be the face of the program, but there are several players on the roster whose progression this offseason will be pivotal in shaping Texas’ chances of success.
1. Quinn Ewers: Establishing Consistency at Quarterback
While Arch Manning’s presence undoubtedly shifts the quarterback conversation in Texas, Quinn Ewers—currently the starting quarterback for the Longhorns—will face a key offseason of his own. Ewers, a former five-star recruit, has shown flashes of brilliance during his time at Texas but has struggled with consistency. In 2023, his performance was mixed, as he showed a great arm and the ability to make impressive throws, but also faced struggles with decision-making and accuracy at times.
Ewers’ offseason development will be crucial for the Longhorns. If Ewers can find consistency in his game, he’ll provide the leadership needed for a team loaded with talent. His connection with new offensive coordinator Kyle Flood and quarterbacks coach A.J. Milwee will be essential, as they look to refine his mechanics, improve his mental game, and ensure he is making quicker, more confident decisions in the pocket.
The pressure on Ewers is heightened by the arrival of Manning, who, while a freshman, is widely regarded as one of the most talented quarterbacks in the nation. The presence of Manning means that Ewers will need to show significant improvement in order to maintain the starting role. The 2024 offseason will be a critical time for Ewers to prove that he can live up to the hype and be the quarterback that Texas needs to compete for a national championship.
2. Bijan Robinson’s Successor: Rushing Attack Needs a Leader
One of the biggest shoes to fill for the Longhorns in 2024 is the absence of Bijan Robinson, the NFL-bound running back who was the heart and soul of Texas’ offense for the last few seasons. Robinson was a transcendent talent, capable of taking over games and providing an elite playmaker out of the backfield. Filling his void will be no easy task, but Texas has some talented options in the backfield who will need to develop during the offseason.
Keilan Robinson and Jonathan Brooks will likely be the primary candidates to take over as the lead back, and both have shown flashes of potential in limited action. Keilan Robinson, who has played a complementary role over the past two seasons, brings speed and vision to the table. Jonathan Brooks, meanwhile, has a more physical running style, and his blend of power and agility could make him a viable all-around back. Both players will need to step up their games in a big way this offseason, developing their footwork, vision, and blocking skills to replace Robinson’s production.
The Longhorns’ rushing attack must remain a focal point in 2024, and the running back committee will need to work in concert with Ewers and Manning to maintain balance in the offense. If Texas can find a reliable and dynamic playmaker in the backfield, it will take pressure off both quarterbacks and allow the offense to stay unpredictable and dangerous.
3. Offensive Line: Protecting the Quarterback and Establishing the Run Game
For Texas to succeed in 2024, the offensive line will need to develop into a unit capable of dominating the line of scrimmage. Last season, the Longhorns struggled at times to establish a consistent push in the running game, and they also allowed too much pressure on the quarterback. This offseason, the offensive line’s development is critical not only for the quarterbacks’ protection but also for creating running lanes for whoever emerges as the team’s primary ball carrier.
A few key players will need to take the next step in their development. Junior right tackle Kelvin Banks, who showed great promise as a freshman, will be expected to anchor the offensive line in 2024. Banks’ ability to lock down the edge against pass rushers while maintaining a physical presence in the run game will be pivotal. Alongside him, senior guard Cole Hutson and junior center Jake Majors must develop chemistry and solidify the interior. The team’s success will hinge on their ability to protect Ewers and Manning while creating a powerful run game.
The 2024 offseason will be a time for these players to hone their techniques, increase their physicality, and grow in their understanding of the offensive scheme. The improvement of the offensive line will not only allow Texas to run the ball effectively but also provide the quarterbacks with the time and space needed to read defenses and make plays down the field.
4. Wide Receiver: Creating Big Playmakers for the Quarterbacks
Texas boasts a talented group of wide receivers, but a few players must take significant steps forward this offseason if the Longhorns’ passing game is to reach its full potential. Xavier Worthy, one of the most electrifying receivers in college football, is already one of the top targets on the roster. However, for Texas to take the next step, Worthy will need more help from his fellow wideouts.
Junior Isaiah Neyor, who was injured during the 2023 season, has the talent to be a game-changer in 2024. His size, speed, and route-running ability make him a potential deep threat for Texas’ quarterbacks. Additionally, players like Jordan Whittington, who has been a reliable possession receiver throughout his career, will need to continue to develop as a consistent option in the passing game.
Beyond the established players, Texas has a handful of younger receivers, including Jaden Alexis and Brennan Thompson, who have the potential to make an impact in 2024. The offseason will be crucial for these players to develop chemistry with Manning and Ewers, refine their route-running, and enhance their ability to create separation from defenders. If the Longhorns can develop a balanced and explosive receiving corps, their offense will be even more dangerous in 2024.
5. Defensive Line: Maintaining Pressure on the Quarterback
On the defensive side of the ball, the Longhorns will need their defensive line to continue to develop and provide pressure on opposing quarterbacks. In 2023, Texas showed that it could be disruptive up front, but the unit must take another step forward if the team is to compete at the highest levels in 2024.
Senior edge rusher Barryn Sorrell will be one of the key players to watch this offseason. Sorrell has shown flashes of being a premier pass rusher, but consistency has been an issue at times. His ability to put pressure on opposing quarterbacks will be critical, especially with the talent Texas has at cornerback and linebacker. Alongside Sorrell, junior defensive tackle T’Vondre Sweat will need to continue his development as a disruptive force in the middle of the defensive line. The Longhorns need to improve against both the run and the pass, and a strong, deep defensive line will be essential to their success.
6. Secondary: Developing Depth and Playmaking Ability
Texas’ secondary will also play a critical role in the team’s success, especially in an increasingly pass-heavy college football landscape. Players like safety Jerrin Thompson and cornerback Ryan Watts will be key to Texas’ defensive plans in 2024. The secondary will need to continue developing its ability to cover explosive wide receivers while also providing support in the run game. The offseason will give these players an opportunity to fine-tune their skills, build chemistry, and develop the consistency needed to be one of the top secondaries in the country.
Conclusion: A Team Effort
While Arch Manning’s arrival has certainly captured the attention of Texas fans, the development of several other key players will be just as crucial to the Longhorns’ success in 2024. Whether it’s Quinn Ewers’ quest for consistency, the running backs’ efforts to replace Bijan Robinson, the offensive line’s growth, or the defensive unit’s evolution, each of these players must step up and take their games to the next level this offseason. With a balanced, well-rounded team, Texas has the potential to challenge for a national championship—but only if every player, not just Manning, is ready to contribute to the team’s success.
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