As the Texas Longhorns look to build on their impressive 2024 season, including a College Football Playoff appearance, they’ll need some hidden gems to step up and fill the void left by departing stars. With at least 13 starters moving on, Texas will dig deep into its young talent to keep its momentum going in 2025. Here’s a look at five under-the-radar players primed to break out:
1. Alex January, Sophomore DT
Texas’ defense will look for fresh blood to step up in the trenches, and Alex January is primed to do just that. The 6-foot-5, 315-pound sophomore made an impression as a true freshman, playing key snaps in the Cotton Bowl. With top defensive tackles departing, January’s upside is massive, and he’ll compete with two high-profile transfers, Cole Brevard and Travis Shaw, for starting duties.
2. Justus Terry, Freshman DT
True freshmen don’t often dominate the defensive tackle position, but Justus Terry is anything but ordinary. Already boasting a powerful build at 6-foot-5, 275 pounds, Terry has the tools to make an immediate impact. His combination of size, strength, and skill gives him the chance to break through early, making him one of the most exciting players to watch in 2025.
3. Spencer Shannon, Sophomore TE
With the tight end position wide open, Spencer Shannon is the prime candidate to step up. At 6-foot-7, 255 pounds, he has the size and athleticism to become a dangerous target for Arch Manning. After a solid 2024 campaign with four appearances, Shannon is ready to make his mark and fill the void left by departing tight ends.
4. Jaime Ffrench Jr., Freshman WR
As Texas looks to replace key receivers, freshman Jaime Ffrench Jr. is a name to remember. At 6-foot-1, 185 pounds, Ffrench’s versatility in high school gives him the edge to earn early playing time. Paired with rising star Ryan Wingo, Ffrench could help fill the gaps in the Longhorns’ receiving corps.
5. Brandon Baker, Sophomore OL
With four starters on the offensive line moving on, Brandon Baker is ready to step into the spotlight. The five-star 2024 signee has already seen action in 2024 and is prepared to take on a larger role in 2025. As Texas searches for a tackle to complement DJ Campbell, Baker could be the perfect fit to anchor the line.
These under-the-radar players are poised to emerge as key contributors for Texas, and their breakout seasons could be exactly what the Longhorns need to build on their success and chase even bigger goals in 2025.
