Texas Football: Projected 2-deep depth chart for 2017
Now that Tom Herman is at the helm what does the 2017 season look like for Texas football and how will the Longhorns finish?
It’s hard to believe the Charlie Strong era of Texas football is over, but it’s a good time to move the program forward under Tom Herman’s leadership. The former Ohio State offensive coordinator turned Houston head coach is looking to turn the Longhorns around and he has plenty of talent surrounding him to do so.
Many believe it’s only a matter of time before the Longhorns are national contenders once again, but there are a fair share of doubters, too.
With fall camp finally here, it’s time to look at which players stand out at each position and what the projected two-deep depth chart will look like when the season kicks off against Maryland on Sept. 2.
Offensive Line
Starting tackles: Connor Williams (LT), Tristan Nickelson (RT)
Backups: Denzel Okafor, J.P. Urquidez
Connor Williams is a clear-cut starter at left tackle and many believe he could be the best lineman in the entire country. The junior will likely be gone after this season. On the other side, Tristan Nickelson and Denzel Okafor will be battling for the starting job this fall, but I’m going with the former.
With Brandon Hodges planning to transfer, sophomore Okafor will likely take his spot as a backup right tackle. J.P. Urquidez should also push for time in the rotation now that it’s thinner than expected.
Starting guards: Patrick Vahe (LG), Jake McMillon (RG)
Backups: Patrick Hudson, Alex Anderson
Juniors Patrick Vahe, a returning starter, and Jake McMillon will look to anchor the interior. The latter will look to take over the right guard spot, backed up by freshman Patrick Hudson, and Vahe is the starting left guard with Alex Anderson adding depth.
Starting center: Zach Shackelford
Backup: Terrell Cuney
Last, but certainly not least, the center spot will be occupied by one of the best young offensive line stars in the conference: Zach Shackelford. The sophomore is coming off a Freshman All-American season in which he was also dubbed an All-Big 12 honorable mention selection. Junior Terrell Cuney will provide depth in case of injury, but expect Shackelford to pick up right where he left off.