Analyzing 3 true freshmen who should start for Texas football in 2022

Kelvin Banks, OT

If there is a true freshman for the Longhorns that looks pretty assured of the chance to get starting reps early this season, it looks like it will be the former elite five-star recruit and offensive tackle Kelvin Banks. At this point of camp, it looks like Banks is destined to win one of the starting offensive tackle spots ahead of sophomore Andrej Karic.

The main question mark for offensive line coach/offensive coordinator Kyle Flood and the Longhorns at this point of camp will actually be who might start at offensive tackle opposite of Banks. While it seems like Banks is getting closer to a firm grip on the starting spot at left tackle, right tackle is still very much up in the air.

Flood and the Longhorns are now seeing the former three-star offensive tackle recruit and fellow Oregon Ducks flip Cam Williams duke it out with redshirt senior Christian Jones for the starting spot at right tackle.

There is a good chance that Texas could have two true freshmen starting at offensive tackle in Week 1 against Louisiana-Monroe with Williams gaining momentum in this battle with Jones at right tackle.

But Banks is definitely the favorite really among any of the true freshmen for the Longhorns on either side of the ball to make a big splash right away. The 6-foot-5 and 320-pound Banks is already showing the capability to beat a force in opening up running lanes for the likes of star junior running back Bijan Robinson, sophomore Jonathon Brooks, etc.

And with the natural ability we know Banks has at the offensive tackle position in pass protection, he looks to have the perfect combination of skills that Flood and the Longhorns need to stand out at left tackle.