This is where the transfer portal becomes crucial for head coach Steve Sarkisian and his staff. Although the Longhorns advanced to the College Football Playoffs with a dominant 38-24 victory over Clemson, Texas still has the opportunity to further strengthen its roster.
The Longhorns have already shown strong interest in top portal prospects like Eric Singleton Jr. and Lee Hunter. However, Hunter has moved from Central Florida to Texas Tech, while Singleton’s decision is still pending.
So, who else is available for Texas to target in the portal? Here are five key players still on the market, who could help elevate the Longhorns into a national title contender once the CFP concludes.
Eric Singleton Jr., wide receiver, Georgia Tech
As mentioned earlier, Singleton has not yet officially revealed his next destination. However, as of Sunday, Dec. 22, 247Sports reports that Auburn is the favorite, with a 67% crystal ball prediction suggesting the Tigers will land him.
That said, the Longhorns are still in the mix. Singleton visited the Austin campus during the weekend of Dec. 15, prior to Texas hosting Clemson in the CFP, indicating that the Texas coaching staff is still very much focused on him.
Texas could still sway Singleton with its strong track record of developing wide receivers. Xavier Worthy set the NFL Scouting Combine 40-yard dash record and now plays with Patrick Mahomes. Jordan Whittington has added depth to the Los Angeles Rams’ receiving corps as they vie for the NFC West title, and Adonai Mitchell was drafted by the Indianapolis Colts.
If not Singleton, don’t be shocked if Texas makes a run at this next available WR.
Zachariah Branch, wide receiver, USC
The former five-star Zachariah Branch, along with his brother Zion, could be a potential packaged deal for their next team.
Just imagine Zachariah Branch’s speed in Sarkisian’s offense, especially in a system that helped turn Xavier Worthy into a first-round talent. However, both brothers recently had a “positive” visit to Arizona State, according to Matt Zenitz of 247Sports. Georgia is also a school to watch as a potential destination for the Branch brothers.
Zion Branch, safety, USC
Zion Branch, the brother of the highly regarded wide receiver and return specialist Zachariah, could quickly adapt to Pete Kwiatkowski’s defensive scheme. Kwiatkowski has a strong track record of developing standout defensive backs, with Budda Baker, Sidney Jones, and Elijah Molden all thriving under his coaching before reaching the NFL.
Andrew Mukuba has already proven himself as a successful safety in this defense, and Zion Branch has the potential to follow in his footsteps if he makes the move to Texas.
Fa’alili Fa’amoe, offensive tackle, Washington State
Texas will face a significant need for offensive line depth heading into 2025, especially with left tackle Kelvin Banks likely to attract NFL attention. The Longhorns must begin planning for an immediate replacement, preferably one with more experience.
That’s where the powerful 6-foot-5, 314-pound Fa’amoe comes into play. Ranked as the second-best offensive tackle prospect in the portal by 247Sports, Fa’amoe started the final six games for Washington State and has a total of 26 starts under his belt.
With Arch Manning potentially taking over the starting role if Quinn Ewers declares for the NFL Draft, Fa’amoe would be a valuable addition, providing immediate stability and protection for Manning in the pocket.
