The Texas Longhorns boasted one of the strongest defensive fronts in college football last season, anchored by the interior duo of T’Vondre Sweat and Byron Murphy. With this pair leading the way, the Longhorns’ defense ranked third in the nation for fewest rushing yards allowed per game (82.6) and 15th for fewest points allowed per game (18.9).
However, with both players now in the NFL, the Longhorns face a significant challenge in filling their roles. Defensive coordinator Pete Kwiatkowski acknowledges the difficulty of replacing Sweat and Murphy but remains optimistic about the current roster.
“We have guys, but it’s tough to replace those two,” Kwiatkowski said. “You just have to coach hard and hope that the players who get opportunities continue to improve. Vernon Broughton and Alfred Collins have played a lot and shown progress, particularly in leadership and work ethic. They’ve made significant strides from last season through spring ball and this summer.”
In terms of depth, the Longhorns are well-positioned. Along with Broughton and Collins, they return promising young players like Jaray Bledsoe, Aaron Bryant, Sydir Mitchell, and Alex January. Additionally, the team bolstered its roster with transfers such as Bill Norton and Tiaoalii Savea from Arizona, and Jermayne Lole from Louisville.
While it remains to be seen if these new additions can match the impact of last year’s standout duo, Kwiatkowski is confident about the team’s depth heading into fall camp. “Our depth should be strong,” he said. “We’ll see how productive they can be compared to what those two provided last year.”