Who is Texas's backup QB? Get to know Matthew Caldwell, Trey Owens, KJ Lacey

If quarterback Arch Manning is out of a game for any reason, who steps up to the plate at quarterback for the Texas Longhorns?
Arch Manning, Clemson v Texas - Playoff First Round
Arch Manning, Clemson v Texas - Playoff First Round | Tim Warner/GettyImages

If something goes wrong and Texas quarterback Arch Manning is out of the lineup, who is the backup QB for the Longhorns? Well, there are a few options, but there is one true QB2, for now.

Manning is currently supported by three fellow quarterbacks: senior Matthew Caldwell, redshirt freshman Trey Owens, and true freshman KJ Lacey. Here's what you need to know about the second-string and third-string quarterbacks in Austin.

Who is Matthew Caldwell?

Caldwell transferred to Texas after starting his collegiate career with three different programs. The veteran quarterback, who has the most experience on the Horns' depth chart, played one season at Jacksonville State, two at Gardner-Webb, and one at Troy.

During his fourth season of college football, he truly found his footing, earning 1,608 passing yards and 13 touchdowns through the air. He also ran for 47 yards and tacked on five more touchdowns on the ground.

When Caldwell announced he was transferring to play for the Horns, he looked like a prime choice to back up Manning and is likely regarded as QB2 in the quarterback room.

Who is Trey Owens?

Owens is a redshirt freshman who started his collegiate career at Texas in 2024. Last season, he appeared against the UTSA Roadrunners, completing two passes for 19 yards before returning to his role as third-string behind Manning and former Longhorn quarterback Quinn Ewers.

On the final depth chart before the Horns kicked off their 2025 season against the Ohio State Buckeyes, Owens was listed as the QB3 once again.

Who is KJ Lacey?

Lacey was a four-star prospect in the class of 2025 who committed to the Horns over other powerhouse programs such as the Alabama Crimson Tide, Notre Dame Fighting Irish, Oregon Ducks, and more.

The young quarterback has yet to play a snap at the collegiate level, especially because the Longhorns decided not to host their annual spring football game.