The college football season is fast approaching, and the Texas football team is a strong contender for the national championship. The Longhorns had an impressive season last year, making it to the College Football Playoff and returning much of their top talent. However, the wide receiver position is an area that will need significant adjustments.
Last season, Texas boasted one of the top wide receiver groups in the nation, led by Xavier Worthy, Adonai Mitchell, and Jordan Whittington. This year, however, the wide receiver room will look quite different. Longhorns head coach Steve Sarkisian addressed the position on Monday, noting the increased versatility of the new players, who can line up both inside and outside.
Steve Sarkisian remarked, according to a post from Wescott Eberts, “This versatility is beneficial as it provides us with significant positional flexibility. The players can coordinate well with each other, facilitating easier communication. We haven’t always been fortunate in this regard over the past couple of years, so this new setup is different but very comfortable.”
This development is crucial for Texas as they integrate several new players. The flexibility of the new wide receivers simplifies coaching and opens up numerous possibilities for the team. Although it’s challenging to overhaul a position group like the Longhorns are doing, things appear to be progressing well.
Which wide receivers have been impressive?
Texas has 10 wide receivers on their roster, seven of whom are newcomers. All the starting wide receiver spots will be filled by new players, likely including transfers, with true freshman Ryan Wingo also expected to make an impact.
One wide receiver who has caught Steve Sarkisian’s eye is Silas Bolden. Sarkisian highlighted Bolden among five players who stood out during camp, with Bolden being the only wide receiver mentioned.
On Monday, Sarkisian named a few young players who have impressed him during the first five practices of preseason camp: RB Jerrick Gibson, WR Silas Bolden, OG Nate Kibble, LB Ty’Anthony Smith, and DB Jordon Johnson-Rubell, as reported by Wescott Eberts.
Silas Bolden, one of the new additions expected to start for Texas this season, has previously played three seasons at Oregon State. While his first season saw limited impact, he made a significant mark in 2022 with over 300 receiving yards and four touchdowns. His performance continued to improve in 2023, with 746 yards and five touchdowns on 54 receptions.
Despite needing to replace some highly talented wide receivers, Texas has brought in promising new talent that should meet the challenge. Additionally, having quarterback Quinn Ewers back will be a major advantage.
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