3 true freshmen to watch in Texas's spring game

Jordan Washington, TE

Texas's tight end room has been better than advertised during spring ball. The additions of former Alabama Crimson Tide junior transfer Amari Niblack along with 2024 four-star signee Jordan Washington as early enrollees has bolstered the depth and talent in Texas's tight end room this spring camp.

It was a big question mark whether the Longhorns would be able to fill some of the void left by the departure of All-Big 12 junior tight end Ja'Tavion Sanders. Niblack's settling into the offensive system in the last few weeks during spring practice along with Washington stepping up with the second and third-team offenses in teams drills and scrimmage settings has calmed that concern regarding the departure of Sanders this offseason.

Texas's only returning starter in the tight end room this spring, senior Gunnar Helm, spoke highly of the younger players the Longhorns have at the position.

"Jordan Washington is going to be a beast and Spencer Shannon and Will Randle are getting better every day which have been pleasant surprises. "

Of the underclassmen in the tight end room for Jeff Banks and the Longhorns this spring, Washington has the highest upside as a receiving threat. He's also shown signs of becoming a proficient run blocker as he continues to develop and get his body ready for contact in the trenches in the SEC week in and week out.

Washington has impressed with his route-running, reliable hands, and athletic traits in one-on-ones and team drills this spring. He can put his 50/50 ball ability and technical route running to the test this weekend in the spotlight of the spring game in front of the fans at DKR on Saturday.