The transfer portal is set to open officially on Jan. 2, but many players have already expressed their intent to enter it and take their talents elsewhere.

The Texas Longhorns have a pretty good idea by now of who they will lose to the portal, meaning that it’s time to assess who they might gain from it as well. 

With just over a week until the madness starts, here are five offensive players who the Longhorns might benefit from signing during the offseason:

Running back Hollywood Smothers

NC State Transfer Hollywood Smothers Eyes Prospect with Texas Longhorns

NC State Wolfpack running back Hollywood smothers carried the ball 160 times for 939 yards and six touchdowns this past season, helping his team accumulate a record of 8-5. He also made a difference in the air, tallying 37 receptions for 189 yards and a touchdown.

Now, the redshirt sophomore looks to continue his collegiate career for a different program. The Wolfpack finished as the No. 9 ranked team in the ACC,and it’s likely that Smothers believes he could be of more value with a more competitive program.

Texas, a team that has lost multiple running backs to the transfer portal and could lose running back Quintrevion

Texas Football: Addressing the Running Back Room Through the Transfer Portal

The Texas Longhorns are coming off a fantastic season, culminating in a College Football Playoff appearance. However, to sustain success and compete for championships, continuous betterment is crucial.One area ripe for enhancement is the running back room. While CJ Baxter showed promise, the Longhorns lack the depth and explosive playmaking ability needed to consistently pound the rock and control the clock.

Texas needs to explore the transfer portal to add experienced and dynamic runners to the mix. Here’s a look at why and potential targets:

Why the Running Back Room Needs Attention

As mentioned above, Texas needs more rushing threats. they have brought running backs coach Jabbar Juluke to shake things up, and they need the personnel to assist him. Baxter is a talented young player, but relying solely on him would be a mistake. A committee approach, with multiple backs possessing different skillsets, is ideal.

Adding a transfer provides several benefits:

* Immediate Impact: A seasoned transfer can contribute promptly, unlike relying on developing freshmen.
* Competition & Depth: Increased competition elevates the play of everyone in the room, and depth is essential to withstand the rigors of a long season.
* Complementary Skillsets: Texas could benefit from a power back to complement Baxter’s agility, or a receiving threat out of the backfield.

Potential Transfer Targets

Identifying specific targets is challenging this early in the portal cycle, but here are some profiles Texas should be monitoring:

* Makhi Frazier (Michigan state): Frazier has shown flashes of brilliance and possesses a good blend of size and speed. He’s a proven commodity in the Big Ten and could thrive in Texas’s offense.
* Audric estime (Notre Dame): A powerful, downhill runner, Estime would bring a different dimension to the Longhorn’s rushing attack. He’s a proven goal-line back and could be a valuable asset in short-yardage situations.
* Javon McIntyre (Florida): McIntyre is a dynamic back with excellent receiving skills. He could be a weapon in the passing game and add another layer to Texas’s offensive versatility.

The bottom Line

Texas has built a strong foundation, but complacency is the enemy of progress. Addressing the running back position through the transfer portal is a smart move that could significantly elevate the Longhorns’ offense and championship aspirations. Coach Juluke’s expertise combined with the addition of a talented transfer could unlock a new level of explosiveness and consistency in the running game.

Quinn Ewers’ NIL valuation Soars to New Heights, Cementing his Status as a College Football Star

Quinn Ewers, the star quarterback for the Texas Longhorns, is not only making waves on the field but also in the world of name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) deals. Recent data reveals a significant surge in his NIL valuation, solidifying his position as one of the most marketable college athletes in the nation.

according to On3, Ewers currently boasts an impressive NIL valuation of $1.9 million. This figure represents a ample increase, fueled by a combination of factors including his on-field performance, growing popularity, and strategic brand partnerships.

Breaking Down Ewers’ NIL Earnings:

* $1.4 million (80%) from NIL deals: Ewers has secured lucrative partnerships with prominent brands, capitalizing on his visibility and appeal.
* $500K (20%) from the Transfer Portal: A portion of his valuation is attributed to his status as a high-profile transfer, demonstrating the financial impact of player movement in the NIL era.

Key NIL partnerships:

Ewers’ portfolio includes collaborations with well-known companies such as:

* HEB: A Texas-based grocery chain, aligning him with a beloved regional brand.
* Buc-ee’s: The popular texas travel center, further cementing his connection to the state’s culture.
* Halo Top: A healthier ice cream option,appealing to a health-conscious demographic.
* Rhoback: A performance apparel brand.

What Drives Ewers’ High Valuation?

Several factors contribute to Ewers’ impressive NIL valuation:

* Star Quarterback: As the leader of a prestigious program like Texas, Ewers naturally attracts significant attention.
* On-Field Success: His performance on the field directly impacts his marketability.
* Texas Appeal: His connection to the state of Texas and its passionate fanbase is a major asset.
* social Media Presence: A strong social media following allows him to engage with fans and promote his partnerships effectively.
* Marketability: Ewers possesses a clean-cut image and broad appeal, making him attractive to a wide range of brands.

Looking Ahead:

As Ewers continues to lead the Longhorns, his NIL valuation is expected to rise even further. With the team’s move to the SEC on the horizon,his exposure and earning potential will only increase. Quinn Ewers is not just a talented quarterback; he’s a burgeoning brand, and his success story exemplifies the evolving landscape of college athletics in the NIL era.

Offensive lineman Tree Babalade

Since Longhorns wide receiver DeAndre Moore Jr.has announced his decision to transfer, Texas might be looking for another receiver to add to its roster. Obtaining Simmons through the portal could be an opportunity for the Longhorns to fill that void and for Simmons to stay in the SEC for the next chapter of his collegiate career.

In fact, he is one of three Tigers wide receivers who has decided to hit the portal after the team finished 5-7 overall and 1-7 during conference play.

South Carolina Offensive Lineman Tree Babalade Eyes Transfer to Texas

South Carolina Gamecocks offensive lineman Tree Babalade, along with four other Gamecocks offensive linemen, do not plan to return to South Carolina in 2026.

Babalade will be a junior next season and has gained experience throughout his first few years of college football, which could make him a promising candidate for Texas. The longhorns’ offensive line struggled during big moments this year, which makes the idea of bringing in new players who have been exposed to playing in the SEC an enticing one.

After starting in nine games his freshman year,Babalade redshirted for the 2024 season.

Texas Football Recruiting: Longhorns Target Wisconsin Transfer Offensive Lineman Jake Renfro

The Texas Longhorns are actively pursuing Wisconsin offensive lineman Jake Renfro through the transfer portal, according to reports. Renfro, a highly-regarded player, could significantly bolster the Longhorns’ offensive line as they prepare for their move to the SEC.

Renfro started all 12 games at right guard for the Badgers in 2023, earning Pro Football Focus (PFF) All-Big Ten honors. He allowed only 17 pressures and 2 sacks throughout the entire season, showcasing his reliability and skill. https://247sports.com/portal/news/texas-longhorns-transfer-portal-jake-renfro-wisconsin-offensive-line-196691761/

The Longhorns have a need on the offensive line, notably with the departure of several key players. Adding a player of Renfro’s caliber would provide valuable experience and depth. He has already visited Texas, and the visit appears to have gone well. https://on3.com/news/texas-longhorns-transfer-portal-jake-renfro-wisconsin-visit-scoop/

Renfro entered the transfer portal on December 18th,and multiple programs quickly reached out. Though, Texas seems to be a frontrunner, offering a compelling opportunity for Renfro to compete at a high level in a major conference. https://www.on3.com/transfer-portal/player/14491/jake-renfro/

As of december 21st, Renfro is still considering his options, but the Longhorns are in a strong position to land the talented offensive lineman. His commitment would be a major win for Texas as they continue to build their roster for the SEC.