Texas Football Kicks Off Spring Practice with Promising Developments

Standout players, position group improvements, and team outlook highlighted on first day of spring ball

Published on Mar. 10, 2026

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The first day of spring football practice for the Texas Longhorns provided insights into the team's progress, with standout performances from players like Cam Coleman, promising developments in the tight ends and defensive backs groups, and an overall sense of optimism about the team's size, athleticism, and experience heading into the new season.

Why it matters

As the Longhorns look to build on their previous season and compete for a conference championship, these early spring practice observations offer a glimpse into the team's strengths, areas of focus, and potential impact players that could shape their success in the upcoming year.

The details

Injury updates revealed the absences of Ty'Anthony Smith and Justus Terry due to minor injuries, both expected to return by August. Standout player Cam Coleman impressed with his athleticism and effortless movement on the field, marking him as a player to watch. The tight ends group, under the intense coaching of Jeff Banks, showed promising development from players like Spencer Shannon, Michael Masunas, Nick Townsend, and Emaree Winston, suggesting they could become a key part of the offense. On defense, the young and talented corners and safeties, including Kade Phillips, Jelani McDonald, Derek Williams, and Toray Davis, were highlighted as pivotal to the defense's potential success. The defensive line, while less visible during practice, was noted for its size, physicality, and NFL-caliber talent, with players like Alex January, Hero Kanu, and Ian Geffrard standing out.

  • The first day of spring football practice for the Texas Longhorns took place on March 10, 2026.
  • Ty'Anthony Smith and Justus Terry are expected to return from their minor injuries by August 2026.

The players

Cam Coleman

A standout player whose athleticism and effortless movement on the field have impressed observers, marking him as a true talent to watch.

Jeff Banks

The intense coach of the tight ends group, who is overseeing the promising development of players like Spencer Shannon, Michael Masunas, Nick Townsend, and Emaree Winston.

Kade Phillips

A young and talented cornerback who is seen as pivotal to the defense's potential success.

Alex January

A defensive lineman noted for his size, physicality, and NFL-caliber talent.

Hero Kanu

A defensive lineman noted for his size, physicality, and NFL-caliber talent.

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What’s next

The Longhorns will continue their spring football practices in the coming weeks, with anticipation building for the upcoming season and the team's potential to compete for a conference championship.

The takeaway

The first day of spring practice for the Texas Longhorns has provided a glimpse into the team's strengths, areas of focus, and potential impact players, offering optimism about their ability to build on their previous season and compete at a high level in the new year.