Texas Football: 5 Longhorns to watch in 2017 spring game

Oct 22, 2016; Manhattan, KS, USA; Texas Longhorns quarterback Shane Buechele (7) passes the ball during a game against the Kansas State Wildcats at Bill Snyder Family Football Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Scott Sewell-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 22, 2016; Manhattan, KS, USA; Texas Longhorns quarterback Shane Buechele (7) passes the ball during a game against the Kansas State Wildcats at Bill Snyder Family Football Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Scott Sewell-USA TODAY Sports /
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Oct 22, 2016; Manhattan, KS, USA; Kansas State Wildcats fullback Winston Dimel (38) is tackled by Texas Longhorns linebacker Malik Jefferson (46) during a game at Bill Snyder Family Football Stadium. The Wildcats won, 24-21. Mandatory Credit: Scott Sewell-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 22, 2016; Manhattan, KS, USA; Kansas State Wildcats fullback Winston Dimel (38) is tackled by Texas Longhorns linebacker Malik Jefferson (46) during a game at Bill Snyder Family Football Stadium. The Wildcats won, 24-21. Mandatory Credit: Scott Sewell-USA TODAY Sports /

There probably isn’t anyone more disappointed in 2016 than Malik Jefferson. Jefferson was highly touted recruit in 2015

The 2016 season was supposed to be a breakout year for Jefferson as it was his second year under Charlie Strong. However it was a near carbon copy of his Freshmen year. In 2015, Jefferson had 61 tackles, seven for loss and 2.5 sacks.

In 2016, he had 60 tackles, nine for loss and 6.5 sacks. Jefferson was in and out of starting lineup for different reason in 2016 but hopes to solidify his place under new defensive coordinator Todd Orlando.

With Jefferson moving to outside Orlando hopes to make him more of a factor on opposing offenses disrupting their tempo and rhythm.

Related Story: Top 15 Heisman candidates to watch this spring

Keep and eye on Jefferson and see how he gets acclimated to outside linebacker position. He has the potential to be a difference maker for Texas football and have an impact on Big 12 offenses.