The Texas Longhorns roster was named the best in college football by CBS Sports’ Brad Crawford. That puts Steve Sarkisian under enormous pressure heading into 2026.
Crawford said Texas “appears capable of checking every box on the national championship checklist.” He emphasized the team’s completeness beyond just individual talent.
The Longhorns’ biggest advantage starts with quarterback Arch Manning, who’s already being discussed as a Heisman Trophy frontrunner.
“Start with the most obvious advantage Texas will have over most opponents: quarterback play and skill talent. Sarkisian has recruited and developed at a level that gives Texas high-end production every season, and now Heisman Trophy frontrunner Arch Manning has another elite athlete to target in Coleman, who joins Ryan Wingo, Emmett Mosley V and others.”
Manning will have plenty of weapons. The receiving corps includes new addition Coleman alongside Ryan Wingo and Emmett Mosley V.
Texas also features multiple projected first-round picks on the offensive line. Colin Simmons headlines a defense that could lead the nation in havoc plays.
“Texas isn’t just talented — it’s structurally sound. That combination is why many evaluators believe the 2026 roster could be Steve Sarkisian’s most complete in Austin, and potentially the best in college football.”
Offensive Line Chemistry Remains the Big Question
The Longhorns added quality talent up front through the transfer portal. Former Wake Forest tackle Melvin Siani will protect Manning’s right side. Trevor Goosby, a likely first-rounder in the 2027 NFL draft, handles the blindside.
But Texas is only bringing back one interior lineman: center Connor Robertson.
The transfer guards bring talent, but the unit will need time to gel. That’s crucial for opening running lanes for the team’s expensive backfield additions.
Texas invested heavily in running backs Hollywood Smothers from NC State and Raleek Brown from Arizona State. Both transfers need a cohesive offensive line to maximize their impact.
If the line struggles early, Kyle Flood and Sarkisian will face immediate criticism. Both coaches have built enough success in Austin that an NFL opportunity could come calling – especially if Manning lives up to his draft projection at the top of 2027.
The talent is undeniable across the roster. Whether it translates to a national championship depends largely on how quickly the new pieces fit together.
