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Texas Football: 10 Longhorns Who Will Turn Program Around in 2016

By Tyler Brett

Dec 5, 2015; Waco, TX, USA; Texas Longhorns head coach Charlie Strong celebrates the win over the Baylor Bears at McLane Stadium. The Longhorns defeat the Bears 23-17. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 5, 2015; Waco, TX, USA; Texas Longhorns head coach Charlie Strong celebrates the win over the Baylor Bears at McLane Stadium. The Longhorns defeat the Bears 23-17. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports /
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Sep 12, 2015; Austin, TX, USA; Texas Longhorns wide receiver John Burt (1) scores a touchdown against the Rice Owls during the third quarter at Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium. Texas beat Rice 42-28. Mandatory Credit: Brendan Maloney-USA TODAY Sports
Sep 12, 2015; Austin, TX, USA; Texas Longhorns wide receiver John Burt (1) scores a touchdown against the Rice Owls during the third quarter at Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium. Texas beat Rice 42-28. Mandatory Credit: Brendan Maloney-USA TODAY Sports /

3. John Burt, WR

John Burt was perhaps the only bright spot in what was a dismal Texas passing attack in 2015. With a new, wide-open offense and another year of experience under his belt, the explosive speedster should be in line for a huge sophomore season.

As a freshman, Burt led the Longhorns with 457 yards receiving and two touchdowns on just 28 catches. His 16.32 yards per catch average ranked No. 9 in the Big 12 and provided one of the few big play sparks for the Horns in 2015. His blazing speed allows him to stretch defenses vertically and he was able to get over the top on multiple occasions last season.

Now, the two-sport star (Burt finished second in the 110-meter hurdles at the Big 12 Championships this spring) is looking to take his game to the next level. His work with the track team has made him even faster this season and he’s focused on becoming more than just a deep route threat. This season, he’ll be involved with more screens and short passes that will allow him to catch and turn upfield to utilize his speed.

It would be difficult for the Texas passing attack to get any worse than it was in 2015. But with Burt blossoming into a potential star receiver, there’s reason to believe that the Horns will be dangerous through the air this season.

Next: 2. Malik Jefferson, OLB

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