Texas Football: 5 players with something to prove in fall camp

2 of 6

LUBBOCK, TX – NOVEMBER 05: Jeffrey McCulloch #23 of the Texas Longhorns recovers a fumble during the game against the Texas Tech Red Raiders on November 5, 2016 at AT&T Jones Stadium in Lubbock, Texas. Texas defeated Texas Tech 45-37. (Photo by John Weast/Getty Images) /

For his first two seasons with the Horns, junior outside linebacker Jeffrey McCulloch saw his role with the defense steadily grow. He got more playing time last year than he did in 2016 with Texas. This fall should be no different with how good he performed in spring camp in the wake of a number of departures at that level of the defense.

Texas lost three talented linebackers that were all huge parts of the defense last season between Jason Hall, Naashon Hughes, and namely Malik Jefferson. Three NFL teams thought that those three linebackers were all worthy of at least a rookie contract at the next level.

This leaves McCulloch competing with fellow junior outside linebacker Malcolm Roach for playing time at the B-Linebacker position this fall. Roach is an established threat both to stuff the run and rush the passer. He’s also building hype as a legitimate NFL prospect to leave early for the 2019 NFL Draft.

With a solid 2018 campaign, McCulloch could gain a hold of the starting role at B-Linebacker and seal his gig for the 2019 season too. McCulloch had something to prove in spring camp, and did well given his opportunity. However, the competition is very stiff and he’ll have to continue the standout performance through the rest of practice before the regular season starts.

Home/Texas Football