Griffin McVeigh, Staff Writer
- Joseph Ossai LB – Switching to a full-time pass rusher, he is going to be the key man to the Texas defense next season. If he can get pressure, the rest of the defense with thrive.
- Caden Sterns S – Coming off an injury-riddled season, Sterns needs to have a bounce-back season. Becoming a junior, he should be a leader in a secondary that struggled last season.
- D’Shawn Jamison DB – Leading the team in interceptions with three, Jamison will be back and ready to produce more turnovers. Like Sterns, he will need to improve in order for the secondary to take a step up.
Kevin Jairaj-USA TODAY Sports - Juwan Mitchell LB – Recently pulling his name out of the transfer portal, Mitchell is expected to become a starter in Chris Ash’s defense. Thin at the position going into spring ball, he will have the opportunity to become a key defensive player.
- Ta’Quon Graham DE – Recording 2.5 sacks last season, Graham needs to improve his numbers next season. Being a senior, he will need to be a solid secondary pass rusher to compliment Ossai.