3 Texas players shining in spring that could win starting spots

Hayden Conner, OG

It’s easy to overlook the importance that the rising sophomore offensive guard and former blue-chip recruit Hayden Conner will have for the Longhorns’ two-deep depth chart this year. Considering the fact that Conner is commonly getting second-team reps in spring camp at both the left and right guard positions, he’s one of the most critical depth players in the trenches.

Yet, it might not be too long before Conner is getting first-team reps on a consistent basis in camp this offseason. According to a report from Inside Texas this week (paid content), Conner is starting to even split first-team reps at times in spring practice with another under-the-radar underclassman along the offensive line in sophomore Jaylen Garth.

Conner is apparently making a very strong impression on the coaching staff while lining up at both guard spots on the interior offensive line this spring. He’s seemingly made enough strides to force offensive line coach/offensive coordinator Kyle Flood and the Longhorns that he should be in the running for starting reps come the fall.

In limited snaps down the stretch last season, there were some clear strides that Conner made in both pass and run protection. In fact, he posted his best pass blocking grade of the season in the finale last year against the Kansas State Wildcats. He took nearly 20 snaps in pass blocking assignments in that game while not allowing a single quarterback pressure.

Conner has apparently relayed the momentum he built in the regular season finale win over Kansas State last fall into a solid showing in spring ball. Watch out for him to be a new starter in the trenches on offense this fall.