Texas Football: Projected 2-deep depth chart for 2018

Center

1. Zach Shackelford

There’s two names that pop out as potential players to become standouts along this offensive line. One of those lineman is rising junior center Zach Shackelford. Few lineman could have a bigger impact on pass blocking by showing some progression this year than Shackelford.

He showed some improvement last year, but Shackelford could really help the interior of the offensive line if he can hold up a bit longer in pass blocking. He also had some rough plays trying to block for Daniel Young, Kyle Porter, and Toneil Carter.

Shackelford does have one of the highest ceilings out of all the offensive line that Texas has at its disposal. It’s very likely that he’ll see that type of breakthrough in 2018 given his strength and motor.

2. Elijah Rodriguez

Texas isn’t too deep along the offensive line, but rising redshirt senior Elijah Rodriguez is one of the most valuable depth pieces on the entire roster. He did rack up some significant playing time over the past two seasons. Rodriguez also backs up more positions than just center.

The quickness and versatility from Rodriguez allows him to be used all over the place, but the Horns just don’t have an established backup at the center spot. Rodriguez will see the field in a few different positions along the line, and center possibly being one of them.