{"id":408107,"date":"2026-08-16T12:30:17","date_gmt":"2026-08-16T12:30:17","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-tx\/408107\/"},"modified":"2026-08-16T12:30:17","modified_gmt":"2026-08-16T12:30:17","slug":"five-texas-longhorns-with-the-most-to-prove-in-fall-camp-scrimmages","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-tx\/408107\/","title":{"rendered":"Five Texas Longhorns With the Most to Prove in Fall Camp Scrimmages"},"content":{"rendered":"

The Texas Longhorns wrapped up their first fall camp scrimmage <\/a>on Saturday. Unfortunately, several players had the flu and missed the opening scrimmage, but it’s not a long-term concern.<\/p>\n

Will Muschamp’s defense made some impressive plays, and it appears they’re a little “ahead” of the offense, according to Steve Sarkisian. With three weeks to go until kickoff, these upcoming practices and scrimmages are going to be important. <\/p>\n

Here are five players who have something to prove over the next few weeks.<\/p>\n

Ty’Anthony Smith, LB\"Texas<\/p>\n

Texas Longhorns linebacker Ty\u2019Anthony Smith. Credit: Scott Wachter-Imagn Images | IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect<\/p>\n

It was expected that with the losses Texas suffered at linebacker this offseason, Ty’Anthony Smith would assume a starting role. That assumption is no longer true.<\/p>\n

Part of the reason is the emergence of Florida State transfer Justin Cryer. He’s looked solid during fall camp, and there could be some competition to start alongside Rasheem Biles.<\/p>\n

Smith was absent from the first scrimmage, and his starting job could be in jeopardy.<\/p>\n

Daylan McCutcheon, WR\"Vanderbilt<\/p>\n

Vanderbilt Commodores defensive back CJ Heard tackles Texas Longhorns wide receiver Daylan McCutcheon. Credit: Scott Wachter-Imagn Images | IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect<\/p>\n

Daylan McCutcheon was also unavailable at the first fall camp. The wide receiver is crowded with Cam Coleman, Ryan Wingo, and Emmett Mosley V.<\/p>\n

There aren’t a ton of opportunities, and with Sterling Berkhalter and the emergence of Jermaine Bishop, the pressure is on for McCutcheon to show something.<\/p>\n

Nick Townsend, TE\"Texas<\/p>\n

Texas Longhorns tight end Nick Townsend celebrates. | USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect<\/p>\n

Nick Townsend went through a physical transformation this offseason. There have been a lot of conversations about Townsend being a potential breakthrough candidate, but now the coaching staff has to see it.<\/p>\n

Townsend should fare well as a blocker, but emerging as a receiving threat will be the next step in his progression. The tight end position is wide open, and Townsend will look to step through.<\/p>\n

Jonah Williams, DB\"Texas<\/p>\n

Texas Longhorns defensive back Jonah Williams (9) tackles Georgia Bulldogs wide receiver London Humphreys. Credit: Dale Zanine-Imagn Images | IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect<\/p>\n

It appears the Jonah Williams<\/a> breakthrough could finally be happening. On Saturday, he intercepted Arch Manning in the end zone.<\/p>\n

He was the highest-ranked safety in the 2025 recruiting class. There is an opening to back up Jelani McDonald<\/a>, and Williams could fill the gap. He doesn’t have to be a massive impact player, but these next few weeks could be critical.<\/p>\n

Kobe Black, DB\"Texas<\/p>\n

Texas Longhorns defensive back Kobe Black (6) and teammates react after making an interception. Credit: Scott Wachter-Imagn Images | IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect<\/p>\n

Kobe Black<\/a> is transitioning from cornerback to safety. Anyone that’s making a position change like that has to show improvement during fall camp. So far, Sarkisian has liked the results.<\/p>\n

“Kobe’s been a nice addition for us there because he gives us position flexibility,” Sarkisian said. “His versatility to obviously plan man coverage, be a corner. I think he’s a very smart player. He’s savy. He’s got good instincts…”<\/p>\n

Again, there is open competition in the secondary, and with a good scrimmage and showing in practice, Black could earn himself more playing time this season.<\/p>\n

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