Texas Football Recruiting: Ranking the 10 best 2018 signees by impact ability for Longhorns

The top rated defensive tackle signee for the Horns would have to fight his way up the depth chart to get much of any game action this fall. Four-star defensive tackle Keondre Coburn signed with Texas looking to become the future anchor of the defensive line after senior defensive tackle Chris Nelson departs following the 2018 campaign.

In the case that Coburn starts at defensive tackle next season, he would be the next up in a line of talented leaders at the position. He would follow Nelson and the reigning Big 12 Defensive Lineman of the Year Poona Ford at defensive tackle. Those are likely tough acts to follow for whoever the starting defensive tackle is after Nelson’s eligibility runs out.

Even to get a starting role in 2019, Coburn would have to pass junior Gerald Wilbon on the depth chart. Wilbon is by no means the long-term answer on the defensive line for the Horns even if he does get more playing time than Nelson this year. However, Tom Herman and defensive coordinator Todd Orlando might trust the experienced Wilbon over Coburn next season.

This is why it is so important for Coburn to start putting together some impressive showings starting in fall camp this month. Coburn is more than talented and physical enough to start as a second year lineman, but he has to prove his worth to the coaching staff now. Do well in fall camp, and Herman might give Coburn some looks early in the 2018 campaign to show his value.