Texas Football: 5 upperclassmen that could opt out of the bowl game

Roschon Johnson, RB

From what we know thus far, the lone Longhorns player to declare for the 2023 NFL Draft is senior running back Roschon Johnson. But Texas is still technically waiting for an opt-out decision from a couple of Texas running backs at the moment, including Roschon (per a Horns247 report).

While the senior captain technically has one more year of eligibility remaining if he utilized the COVID-19 redshirt rule from the 2020 season, Roschon is one that is essentially guaranteed to be done in college.

Roschon had a great career for the Longhorns, rushing for nearly 2,200 yards while amassing nearly two-dozen rushing scores over the course of four seasons. He was one of the most influential senior leaders in the locker room this year, as Roschon has willed this team to at least a few victories in the last two or three seasons.

It’s also worth noting that Roschon suffered a late-season lower-body injury in Texas’ win over Kansas on the road on Nov. 19. Roschon was seen in a walking boot after that game.

Not wanting to further injure that ankle is just another reason why Roschon would be encouraged to opt out of the bowl game.

Last but not least, Roschon has already played in two Alamo Bowls in his time with the Longhorns. Texas made two straight Alamo Bowls in 2018 and 2019. Roschon has already experienced two wins in the Alamo Bowl over PAC-12 foes for the Longhorns. I don’t imagine there is a ton of motivation for him to play in a third Alamo Bowl when there is so much on the line for him as it relates to getting ready for the 2023 NFL Draft.