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Inside the Program: Early Enrollee Impresses, Veteran RB Leads & Edge Coach Delivers Early

Joe Cookby:Joe Cook•04/11/25•

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Steve Sarkisian
Steve Sarkisian (Will Gallagher/Inside Texas)

A freshman early enrollee is already turning heads this spring, while a tough veteran leads a stacked RB room. Plus, we break down the impact of the new EDGE coach and spotlight key players emerging at the STAR position.

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Emaree Winston, an early enrollee, is standing out in spring practices. Despite expectations favoring highly-touted recruit Nick Townsend, Winston has seized opportunity due to injuries and shown impressive football IQ, route-running, and readiness to contribute. He’s often targeted by Arch Manning, highlighting strong chemistry and football instincts.

Veteran Tre Wisner leads the group with maturity and physical readiness, having added muscle in the offseason. Christian Clark is regaining elite form post-injury, showing agility and explosiveness. Jerrick Gibson’s development, especially in ball security and blitz pickup, is also noted. The group shows promising depth and adaptability under new coach Chad Scott.

The addition of LeAllen Clark, previously at Ohio State, to oversee edge defenders is already yielding dividends. His hands-on style and detailed coaching are refining techniques of talents like Colin Simmons and Ethan Burke. This allows Pete Kwiatkowski to focus on overall defensive coordination, enhancing both individual and systemic growth.

With Jaylon Gilbeau shifting to cornerback, Texas is experimenting at the star position. Prospects like Wardell Mack, Graceson Littleton, and Ryan Niblett are being rotated heavily to find a suitable starter. While Mack has the skillset, coaches seem inclined toward Jelani McDonald for his versatility and football IQ, especially in critical matchups.

Across all positions discussed, the theme is developing depth through reps and rotation. Whether it’s tight end, running back, edge rusher, or nickel corner, coaches are emphasizing readiness, adaptability, and leveraging the transfer portal as needed. This sets a robust foundation for the upcoming season with national championship aspirations.

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