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Caldwell Today
By the People, for the People
Texas Longhorns Backup QB Battle Heats Up
Addition of MJ Morris adds experienced depth behind star QB Arch Manning
Published on Feb. 9, 2026
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With star quarterback Arch Manning returning for another season, the focus in Austin has shifted to the battle for the backup QB role. Texas has added veteran transfer MJ Morris to compete with returning QB KJ Lacey for the job, providing depth and experience behind Manning. Morris' versatility in operating different offensive systems could make him a valuable scout team QB, while Lacey is seen as the favorite to ultimately win the backup job heading into the season.
Why it matters
In the era of the transfer portal, the backup QB position has become increasingly important for top programs. Having a capable and experienced backup ready to step in if the starter goes down can be the difference between a successful season and a derailed campaign. This competition in Austin will help ensure the Longhorns have quality depth at the game's most important position.
The details
MJ Morris is a journeyman QB who has played in the ACC, Big Ten, and Sun Belt over his four-year college career, starting seven games for NC State in 2022-23. His experience operating in multiple offensive systems, from pro-style to Air Raid, makes him an ideal candidate to simulate opposing offenses as the scout team QB. Meanwhile, KJ Lacey is the returning backup who impressed the coaching staff last season and is seen as the frontrunner to win the QB2 job. True freshman Dia Bell is also in the mix, though his injury in high school may slow his development initially.
- Texas added MJ Morris as a transfer in January 2026.
- The Longhorns open their 2026 season on September 6.
The players
Arch Manning
The star quarterback for the Texas Longhorns, Manning is a Heisman Trophy candidate and one of the top QBs in the country.
MJ Morris
A veteran quarterback who has played at NC State, Morris brings experience operating multiple offensive systems to the Longhorns' QB room.
KJ Lacey
The returning backup quarterback for Texas, Lacey is expected to be the frontrunner to win the QB2 job heading into the 2026 season.
Dia Bell
A highly touted true freshman quarterback recruit for the Longhorns, Bell will look to make an impact despite a recent injury.
What they’re saying
“Adding a player like Morris instead of a more proven starter may actually be an indication that they expect Lacey to be a strong backup for this roster, and they don't need to bring in someone who clearly assumes that role.”
— Evan Vieth, Reporter (on3.com)
What’s next
The Longhorns will continue to evaluate the quarterback competition throughout spring practice and fall camp, with a decision on the backup role likely coming just before the start of the 2026 season.
The takeaway
Texas has built impressive depth at the quarterback position, with star starter Arch Manning backed up by an experienced veteran in MJ Morris and a promising young talent in KJ Lacey. This competition will push all the QBs to improve, ensuring the Longhorns have a capable backup ready to step in if needed.
