It shouldn't be surprising that the Texas Longhorns have a few standout freshmen on the roster after head coach Steve Sarkisian brought in the No. 1 nationally-ranked recruiting class of 2025. However, for one of those true freshmen to receive first-team reps is remarkable.
Graceson Littleton, a four-star prospect out of Florida, has already been working with the first team this fall, playing star (a combination of nickel and dime roles, which combines the safety and linebacker positions) as well as making appearances on special teams.
Once game day finally rolls around, Longhorn fans shouldn't be all that surprised to see Littleton receive a lot of playing time.
The Horns are obviously having to rebuild their impressive secondary after losing Jim Thorpe Award-winning defensive back Jahdae Barron and safety Andrew Mukuba to the NFL.
Most likely, Texas will have returners Michael Taaffe, Malik Muhammad, and Kobe Black leading the way in the defensive secondary, but young stars like Littleton could make their presence felt as the season progresses.
Could Graceson Littleton start for Texas in 2025?
While still in high school, Littleton was just 175 pounds, slightly undersized for a collegiate defensive back. However, his physical appearance makes it look as though the young cornerback has packed on weight since stepping onto the Forty Acres.
Buy stock in Texas freshman DB Graceson Littleton. Took first-team reps at star today and featured prominently in special teams drills. I expect him to play a lot this year. ##HookEm pic.twitter.com/xTtilcVf4Z
— Wescott Eberts (@SBN_Wescott) July 30, 2025
If Littleton continues to impress during the remainder of fall camp and throughout the beginning of the regular season, Texas could absolutely decide to make him a starter, especially in non-conference games against San Jose State, UTEP, and Sam Houston.
In high school, Littleton played on both sides of the ball, lining up at wide receiver and cornerback. On the defensive side of the ball, he amassed 68 total tackles (59 solo), four tackles for loss, 11 pass deflections, three interceptions, two fumble recoveries, and one forced fumble.
Texas kicks off its season against the defending National Champions, the Ohio State Buckeyes, on Saturday, Aug. 30. Littleton (most likely) won't see playing time during the first game of the year, but keep an eye out for the young defensive back in the three games that follow.