Steve Sarkisian's 3 hidden weapons for 2026 season

The Texas Longhorns enter the 2026 season with national championship expectations and one of college football's deepest rosters. While stars continue drawing most preseason attention, several lesser-known players could become important pieces as Steve Sarkisian pushes for another College Football Playoff run.

3 Under-The-Radar Longhorns Could Shape Texas' 2026 Season

Texas has recruited top talent under Sarkisian, creating competition for almost every position. This depth means many skilled players start the season without much attention, even though they could play important roles before the toughest part of the conference season.

Freshman linebacker Tyler Atkinson is a key player on the team. He is one of the top-rated defensive recruits in the country. Transfer linebacker Rasheem Biles will likely take on more responsibility at first. 

However, Atkinson has great athleticism and instincts, making him a strong option for Texas, especially given the importance of fresh legs during the season. Learning from an experienced player could help him get regular playing time on defense faster.

Senior running back Raleek Brown should be recognized, even though he shares playing time with transfer Hollywood Smothers. Brown comes to Texas after a strong season at Arizona State, where he rushed for 1,141 yards on 188 carries. 

His experience makes him a dependable ball carrier for Texas, ready to take on significant carries if injuries occur or if Coach Sarkisian decides to use a two-back system against SEC defenses.

Sophomore defensive end Lance Jackson has a great chance to break out this season. With top player Colin Simmons drawing extra attention from opposing teams, Jackson will likely face more one-on-one matchups. This situation could help him become a key pass rusher, especially after gaining experience during his freshman year.

Championship teams don’t just rely on their star players. Texas knows that Simmons and other experienced players will get attention from fans and the media all season. 

However, the team’s success may depend more on players like Atkinson, Brown, and Jackson. If they can turn their talent into consistent performance, it will help the team as the schedule gets tougher.

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