Seeing former Texas defensive linemen Byron Murphy, T’Vondre Sweat, and Jaylan Ford drafted in the 2024 NFL Draft evoked mixed feelings among Longhorn fans. The excitement of seeing more talent reach the professional level was tempered by the challenge of facing a season without these three key veterans, who combined for 175 tackles last year.
Now, it’s time for new players to step up, with senior defensive lineman Vernon Broughton expected to maintain the team’s momentum and develop as a vocal leader. Broughton is determined to uphold the high standards set by Sweat and Murphy, emphasizing the need for continued dominance and effort.
In a recent press conference, Broughton downplayed concerns about the team’s performance without these players, focusing instead on the work ahead. He is currently competing for a starting spot at defensive tackle with Arizona transfer Bill Norton and hopes to make a significant impact after recording a career-high 17 tackles, 4.5 for loss, one sack, one pass breakup, and one fumble recovery last season.
Broughton will be joined by fellow senior defensive lineman Alfred Collins, who has already begun to fill the significant gaps left by the departed players. Collins played in all 14 games last season, starting six and amassing 22 tackles, two sacks, two pass breakups, and a QB hurry, which likely secures his position as the starting left defensive tackle. Together, Broughton and Collins aim to form a formidable duo in their final season.
The defensive lineup is bolstered by a strong group of players, including both veterans and promising underclassmen like sophomore defensive back Maalik Muhammad. Muhammad is eager to showcase the defense’s progress, highlighting improvements in tackling, coverage, and communication. He also praised juniors Jaylon Guilbeau and Jay’Vion Cole, senior Gavin Holmes, and freshman Kobe Black for their standout performances in the offseason.
The Texas defense is filled with potential, as evidenced by preseason accolades for senior Jahdae Barron and transfers redshirt junior Trey Moore and senior Andrew Mukuba. Despite the absence of Sweat, Murphy, and Ford, the Longhorns are poised to rely on a mix of experience, versatility, and depth to succeed.
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