Texas Football: 3 emerging leaders for the Longhorns in summer workouts

Jaylan Ford, LB

Potentially the best returning defensive player for the Longhorns this year is the deserved 2022 Big 12 Defensive Player of the Year and senior standout linebacker Jaylan Ford. During his senior campaign, the preseason Big 12 Defensive Player of the Year and All-Big 12 linebacker is primed for an All-American caliber season.

Ford was one of the true breakout stars in the Big 12 last season. He made plays all over the field for the Longhorns at critical times in games, including double-digit tackles for loss, four interceptions, and three forced fumbles.

The next step for Ford this fall will be to set the tone with his play for this defensive front in multiple ways while stepping up as a vocal leader and mentor in the locker room.

Last year, Ford had senior linebacker DeMarvion Overshown to help lead the way for some of the younger guys in the LB room and to set the tone with his play on the field. With Overshown having departed for the NFL this offseason, it’s Ford’s turn to set the tone at the linebacker position this fall.

Ford has reportedly been the “tip-of-the-spear leader in everything we’re doing” for the Longhorns in summer workouts. It was specifically mentioned that Ford is bringing a ton of energy to the summer strength and conditioning program while helping to mentor the younger linebackers, such as true freshman Anthony Hill Jr.