Texas Football’s Top 10 Players for 2026: Colin Simmons Headlines Elite Longhorn Talent

The 2026 Texas Longhorns enter the season with one of the deepest and most talented rosters in college football. From future first-round NFL Draft prospects to established stars and impact transfers, Texas has legitimate championship aspirations heading into Steve Sarkisian’s latest campaign.

The Longhorns feature elite talent on both sides of the ball, led by defensive standout Colin Simmons and quarterback Arch Manning. With multiple All-American candidates and one of the nation’s strongest offensive lines, Texas appears built to compete for both an SEC title and the College Football Playoff.

Here’s a closer look at the top 10 players expected to define Texas football in 2026.

1. Colin Simmons (EDGE)

Colin Simmons enters 2026 as the unquestioned leader of the Texas defense and arguably the best defensive player in college football.

After following a 10-sack freshman season with 12 sacks in 2025, Simmons has established himself as one of the nation’s premier edge rushers. His combination of explosive first-step quickness, refined pass-rush moves, and relentless motor makes him a nightmare for opposing offensive tackles.

With defensive mastermind Will Muschamp helping guide the Longhorn defense, Simmons is widely expected to contend for major national awards while positioning himself as a potential top-10 selection in the 2027 NFL Draft.

Why he’s No. 1

• Elite pass-rushing production
• Dominant run defender
• All-American candidate
• Future first-round NFL Draft pick

2. Trevor Goosby (Offensive Tackle)

If healthy, Trevor Goosby may be the best offensive tackle in college football.

The veteran lineman reportedly had NFL Draft interest before deciding to return to Austin, giving Texas one of the nation’s premier blindside protectors. Goosby excels in pass protection while also creating movement in the running game, making him one of the most complete linemen in the country.

His health will be worth monitoring after offseason shoulder issues, but a full-strength Goosby dramatically raises Texas’ offensive ceiling.

Strengths

• Elite pass protector
• Powerful run blocker
• NFL-ready technique
• Potential first-round pick

3. Rasheem Biles (Linebacker)

Rasheem Biles may be listed as a linebacker, but he impacts games in virtually every defensive category.

His 2025 stat line showcased his versatility:

• 100 tackles
• 4.5 sacks
• 2 interceptions
• 2 defensive touchdowns
• 2 forced fumbles
• 1 fumble recovery

Biles consistently creates splash plays while serving as the emotional centerpiece of the defense. His instincts, athleticism, and ability to rush the passer make him one of college football’s most disruptive linebackers.

4. Cam Coleman (Wide Receiver)

Cam Coleman arrives in Austin with enormous expectations.

The transfer possesses rare size, athleticism, and contested-catch ability that have many comparing him to future NFL stars. While his ability to win jump balls draws headlines, coaches have reportedly been equally impressed by his yards-after-catch potential during offseason workouts.

Coleman gives Arch Manning a true No. 1 receiver capable of changing games with a single play.

What makes him dangerous

• Elite size
• Outstanding catch radius
• Big-play ability
• NFL-caliber upside

5. Arch Manning (Quarterback)

No player carries more national attention than Arch Manning.

Although he ranks fifth on this list based purely on current production, Manning arguably possesses the highest ceiling of anyone on the roster.

His athleticism, arm talent, and football IQ have never been questioned. The remaining step is proving week after week that his mechanics and accuracy can consistently match his physical gifts.

If Manning reaches his potential, Texas could feature one of the country’s most explosive offenses.

Expectations for 2026

• SEC Player of the Year contender
• Heisman Trophy candidate
• Potential No. 1 overall NFL Draft prospect

6. Jelani McDonald (Safety)

Jelani McDonald now becomes one of the leaders of the Texas secondary.

With previous veterans moving on, McDonald is expected to assume a larger leadership role while continuing to showcase his impressive versatility.

His range, tackling ability, and coverage skills make him one of the most complete defensive backs in the SEC.

If he takes another developmental leap under Muschamp, McDonald could emerge as a first-round NFL Draft prospect.

7. Ryan Wingo (Wide Receiver)

Cam Coleman may have generated offseason headlines, but Ryan Wingo remains one of Texas’ most explosive offensive weapons.

Wingo flashed elite playmaking ability after the catch last season, although occasional drops prevented an even bigger breakout.

Now paired with Coleman, Wingo should benefit from additional space created by opposing defenses focusing on multiple receiving threats.

Together, they have the potential to become the nation’s best receiving duo.

Key strengths

• Explosive YAC ability
• Vertical speed
• Dynamic playmaker
• Major breakout candidate

8. Hero Kanu (Defensive Tackle)

Hero Kanu continues the recent tradition of dominant Texas defensive tackles.

While comparisons to Byron Murphy II or T’Vondre Sweat may be premature, Kanu consistently plays disciplined, technically sound football.

He anchors the run defense while steadily improving as an interior pass rusher, giving Texas another disruptive presence alongside Colin Simmons.

9. Melvin Siani (Offensive Tackle)

Transfer Melvin Siani may prove to be one of the most important additions of the offseason.

Coming from Wake Forest, Siani brings impressive athleticism, particularly in pass protection and outside-zone blocking schemes.

Together with Trevor Goosby, Texas boasts what many believe could be the nation’s top offensive tackle tandem.

Why Siani matters

• Immediate starter
• NFL upside
• Athletic pass protector
• Strengthens already elite offensive line

10. Bo Mascoe (Cornerback)

Bo Mascoe has quickly become one of the biggest offseason risers for Texas.

The Rutgers transfer has consistently earned praise throughout preseason practices for his coverage ability, tackling, and versatility.

If his practice performance carries over into games, Mascoe could develop into one of the SEC’s top cornerbacks by season’s end.

Honorable Mentions

Several talented players narrowly missed the top 10 but are expected to contribute significantly during the season.

Notable names include:

• Lance Jackson (EDGE)
• Raleek Brown (RB)
• Hollywood Smothers (RB)
• Emmett Mosley V (WR)
• Ty’Anthony Smith (LB)

Why Texas Enters 2026 as a National Title Contender

Texas possesses the type of balanced roster that championship teams require.

The Longhorns feature elite quarterback talent in Arch Manning, explosive playmakers at wide receiver, one of college football’s strongest offensive lines, and a defense headlined by arguably the nation’s best pass rusher in Colin Simmons.

With experienced veterans, impactful transfers, and future NFL talent spread across nearly every position group, Texas enters the 2026 season with realistic expectations of competing for an SEC championship and making a deep College Football Playoff run. If this core performs to its potential, the Longhorns could finish the year as one of the nation’s elite teams.