Texas Football: How QB room stacks up heading into spring camp

2. Casey Thompson, Redshirt Sophomore

Last offseason, the Texas football program was fortunate to retain the services of Thompson. That came despite putting his name into the transfer portal prior to the Sugar Bowl win over the Georgia Bulldogs to cap the 2018 season. But Texas got Thompson back to campus before spring ball even began.

Given the losses of Buechele and Rising to the transfer portal, and Utah and SMU respectively, getting Thompson back was vital. He was the backup to Ehlinger last season, with Saxton sitting as a distant third stringer. His dual-threat nature and strong arm also present a good fit with Herman’s balanced offensive scheme.

The real battle for Thompson will come during his third season on the Forty Acres. He’ll be facing the likes of Card, Jackson, and maybe four-star 2021 dual-threat quarterback commit Jalen Milroe to win the starting job next year. He could be the favorite if he continues to excel when given the chance in spring games and limited game action.

In four games played in his career thus far, Thompson completed 8-of-12 passing attempts for 84 yards, no touchdowns, and no interceptions. He’s also scampered for 22 rushing yards and one score, which came last season. All that amounted to a passer efficiency rating just above 125 in Thompson’s limited game exposure.