Steve Sarkisian praises growth of pass rushers during spring practice

Steve Sarkisian has done a great job of building out the Texas roster, both through recruiting and the transfer portal. Multiple potential weaknesses but heading into the summer, there is still one area the Longhorns could improve — the pass rush.

Since Sarkisian took over in Austin, there has not been a true dominant pass rusher. Texas could use some help along the edge if it becomes available in the upcoming portal cycle. Even so, some guys have stood out to the head coach during spring practice but one comes from the interior and another is a freshman linebacker.

“I think one guy that stands out to me that at times, to me, he’s unblockable, was Byron Murphy,” Sarkisian said. “And that’s internal pressure. This guy is so active, he’s so strong, he’s so quick, and he’s very smart. He has presented some real issues.”

Playing time will be available up the middle for Texas due to departures. Keondre Coburn and Moro Ojomo are off to the 2023 NFL Draft.

Murphy is entering his third season with the program out of DeSoto (TX). He has three career sacks and 6.5 tackles for a loss in 25 games played. Not your traditional defensive tackle at 6-1, 297 pounds, there is some quickness involved in his game.

Speaking of speed, true freshman linebacker Anthony Hill has been a name continually brought up by coaches and players. Former high school teammate Ja’Tavion Sanders thinks Hill will surprise Texas fans this season. Now, Sarkisian believes Hill can get to the quarterback when given the chance.

“I think Anthony Hill — anytime that he can present opportunities to rush the passer, he’s an issue,” Sarkisian said. “Those two guys are the first two guys that stand out to me that I feel like whenever their number and opportunity presents itself, they find their way back there.”

Hill played high school football at Denton (TX) Ryan, where he was a five-star prospect. He was the No. 16 overall recruit in the 2023 cycle, according to the On3 Industry Rankings, a weighted average that utilizes all four major recruiting media companies.

Saturday will present the opportunity for fans to see what Sarkisian is speaking about with Murphy and Hill. The Orange & White game will be taking place at Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium. While they will not be allowed to hit quarterbacks, battling against the offensive line will be something to watch.