Texas Longhorns 2015 Spring Game: Five things we learned

Jan 2, 2015; St. Petersburg, FL, USA; Team Highlight linebacker Malik Jefferson (46) runs on to the field during the introductions at the 2015 Under Armour All-America Game at Tropicana Field. Mandatory Credit: Jonathan Dyer-USA TODAY Sports

Malik Jefferson Is As Good As Advertised

Mesquite, Texas linebacker Malik Jefferson was the crown jewel of the Longhorns’ 2015 recruiting class and Texas’ lone five-star recruit.

And if the spring game is any indication, Jefferson is for real. He was all over the field on Saturday, actively involved and making plays all over the field. Even when he wasn’t directly involved in a play, Jefferson was disruptive.

The defensive statistics bear this out: Jefferson had four solo tackles and one assist, with one tackle for a loss and a pass breakup. The outstanding play in Jefferson’s afternoon was tackling receiver Daje Johnson and causing a fumble that was returned for a touchdown.

In this play, Jefferson showed tremendous field awareness and sick closing speed. Barring an injury or some other disaster, there is little doubt that Malik Jefferson will be on Longhorns’ starting lineup come September. He is that good.

Next: The Running Game Was Just OK