The 2025 season for the Texas Longhorns promises to be a great one, with the defense being the key player. Last year, the Longhorns’ defense was exceptional, earning a reputation as a takeaway machine, ranking third in the nation overall, and excelling in scoring defense by allowing just 15 points per game.
It was tough in the red zone, formidable against the run, and packed with talent. Although there were some missteps in crucial moments, it was arguably the best defense the program had seen since their 2009 national title run.
This year, with plenty of experience returning and some powerful additions from the transfer portal, the defense is set to shine again. Let’s take a closer look at the key players and areas that will define the Texas Longhorns’ defense in 2025.
Key Players and Position Breakdown
Linebackers: The Heart of the Defense
The linebacker position is in great hands, with Anthony Hill Jr. standing out as the team’s best player. Hill, a 6-3, 239-pound powerhouse, had an incredible season last year, recording 113 tackles, 8 sacks, 16.5 tackles for loss, and forcing 4 fumbles. He’s expected to lead this unit once again.
Alongside Hill, there’s plenty of talent. Trey Moore, a former star at UTSA, has made 46 tackles for loss in the last three years and might transition to a hybrid pass-rushing role.
Liona Lefau, who made 63 tackles and 2 sacks last season, is set for an even bigger role in 2025. In addition, Arkansas transfer Brad Spence, who made 56 tackles and 4.5 sacks last season, will add more depth to this already talented group.
Defensive Line: New Transfers Ready to Make an Impact
The defensive line for Texas features both established players and exciting new additions. The outside of the line is strong with Moore, who is expected to be a statistical star, senior Ethan Burke (two sacks, nine tackles for loss), and rising star Colin Simmons, who posted 48 tackles, 9 sacks, and 14 tackles for loss last season.
However, the inside of the line is where the biggest changes are happening. Texas has brought in some impressive transfers to beef up the middle. Maraad Watson from Syracuse brings NFL-caliber talent, expected to make a huge impact.
Cole Brevard (Purdue), weighing in at 6-3 and 346 pounds, will anchor the nose, while Travis Shaw (North Carolina) and Hero Kanu (Ohio State) add more depth and experience to the line.
Secondary: Talented Veterans Lead the Way
Although the secondary lost some key players, including ball-hawker Jahdae Barron and safety Andrew Mukuba, they still boast a solid and experienced group.
Malik Muhammad is a standout corner with excellent open-field tackling and pass-breaking ability. He’ll be joined by sophomore Kobe Black, who has the potential to become the next star in the secondary.
At safety, Michael Taffe is a tackling machine who finished with 78 tackles, two sacks, 5.5 tackles for loss, two interceptions, and 10 pass breakups last season.
Jaylon Guilbeau, who recorded 58 stops and 5.5 tackles for loss, is also a key contributor. Jelani McDonald, with 33 tackles, adds depth to the safety rotation, ensuring Texas has a well-rounded and experienced secondary.
Expectations for 2025
The Texas Longhorns defense in 2025 is poised for greatness. With a mix of returning veterans and impactful transfers, this defense is not only capable of repeating last season’s success but also exceeding it.
With key players like Anthony Hill Jr., Trey Moore, and Malik Muhammad, Texas has the talent to be one of the top defenses in the country once again.
As long as the defense can stay consistent and avoid the lapses that occasionally hurt them last year, they’ll have a great chance at dominating the college football landscape in 2025. The defensive line and linebacker corps should be able to handle any offense thrown their way, while the secondary remains a formidable force.
In conclusion, the Texas Longhorns defense is stacked and ready for the challenge of the 2025 season. With so much returning talent and key additions, this defense is shaping up to be one of the best in the nation. Fans can expect a dominant showing from the defense that will play a crucial role in the team’s success this year.
