Texas Longhorns: 5 Under-the-Radar Breakout Candidates for 2025 Football Team

The Texas Longhorns have been steadily building toward becoming a perennial powerhouse once again in college football. With Steve Sarkisian entering his third season as head coach in 2025, there are high expectations for the Longhorns to take the next step after a successful 2024 campaign that saw the team become a true contender. But even with all the talent on the roster, some of the most impactful players are not necessarily the ones getting all the headlines. For Texas, the future of the program hinges on the development of under-the-radar players who can break out in unexpected ways. Here are five potential breakout candidates for the 2025 season.

1. Jaden Greathouse – Wide Receiver

The Texas Longhorns have been known for their prolific offenses, and in 2025, wide receiver Jaden Greathouse could become one of the most important pieces in the Longhorns’ aerial attack. While Greathouse may not have the same high-profile reputation as some of the more established stars on the roster, he is an extremely talented player with immense potential.

Why Greathouse could break out:

Elite Physical Tools: Greathouse’s combination of size and athleticism gives him the ability to dominate as both a deep threat and a possession receiver. Standing at 6’3″ and possessing great hands, he is a match-up nightmare for defensive backs.
The X-Factor in the Offense: With Xavier Worthy and Adonai Mitchell drawing a lot of attention from opposing defenses, Greathouse could benefit from the focus shifting to other key playmakers. His ability to make plays in critical situations will be invaluable for Texas.
Increased Opportunities: As the Texas offense continues to evolve under Sarkisian’s tutelage, Greathouse will likely see an increased number of targets. With more opportunities, he could easily emerge as one of the Longhorns’ top receiving threats.

While Worthy and Mitchell will likely continue to be the primary options in the passing game, Greathouse has the potential to emerge as the go-to receiver on third downs and in red-zone situations. If he takes a step forward in his development, he could become one of the most dangerous weapons on the Texas offense.

2. Ethan Burke – Defensive End

The Texas defense has been slowly but surely improving under defensive coordinator Pete Kwiatkowski. One player who could help take the defense to the next level in 2025 is sophomore defensive end Ethan Burke. Though Burke hasn’t garnered as much attention as some of the other defensive stars on the roster, his combination of size, athleticism, and skill make him a prime candidate for a breakout year.

Why Burke could break out:

Elite Pass-Rush Potential: Standing at 6’6″ and weighing 255 pounds, Burke has the physical tools to be a dominant edge rusher. In limited action as a freshman in 2024, he showed flashes of his potential, and with more playing time, Burke could develop into one of the top pass-rushers in the Big 12.
Perfect Fit for Kwiatkowski’s Defense: Pete Kwiatkowski’s defense relies on a strong pass rush, and Burke’s ability to get after the quarterback fits perfectly into that scheme. With an improved defensive line around him, Burke could be a major disruptor in 2025.
Depth Chart Opportunities: With the departure of key players like Byron Murphy and others, the Longhorns will be looking for new leaders on the defensive line. Burke has the talent to step into a starting role and make an immediate impact.

In 2025, if Burke can continue to develop his pass-rush skills and improve his technique, he could easily become one of the top defensive players in the Big 12. With the right coaching and more experience under his belt, his potential is limitless.

3. J.T. Sanders – Tight End

Tight end J.T. Sanders has been a player that Texas fans have had high expectations for since his arrival on campus, and 2025 could be the year he finally breaks out in a big way. Sanders showed promise as a true freshman in 2023, but his full potential has yet to be realized. However, his skills as a versatile, dynamic tight end could make him a major asset to the Texas offense in 2025.

Why Sanders could break out:

A Dual Threat: Sanders is the prototypical modern tight end, with the ability to both block and stretch the field as a receiver. His size (6’4″, 250 lbs) and athleticism allow him to create mismatches against linebackers and safeties, and he’s shown the ability to make plays both in the passing game and in the run game.
Key Role in the Offense: Texas has a history of producing star tight ends, and Sanders could be the next in line. With Sarkisian’s offensive system emphasizing creativity and versatility, Sanders could be used in a variety of ways—whether that’s lining up in-line, in the slot, or even out wide.
Playmaking Ability: In 2024, Sanders showed glimpses of his potential with several key catches in critical moments. As he continues to develop as a route runner and adds strength to his frame, Sanders has the ability to become a primary target in the Texas offense.

In 2025, Sanders could emerge as one of the top tight ends in the country, especially in a high-powered offense that loves to utilize the tight end in a variety of roles. His physical attributes, coupled with the growth in his technique, could make him a nightmare for opposing defenses.

4. Le’Veon Moss – Running Back

With the departure of star running back Bijan Robinson, the Texas Longhorns are left with a big void to fill in their backfield. While Jonathan Brooks is expected to be the starting running back in 2025, sophomore Le’Veon Moss could be the breakout player who provides an additional spark and depth to the position.

Why Moss could break out:

Unique Skill Set: Moss is known for his explosive speed and agility, which allows him to make defenders miss in the open field. His ability to break away from tackles and pick up yards after contact makes him an exciting prospect for the Longhorns’ offense.
Dynamic Change of Pace: While Brooks will likely be the primary ball carrier, Moss could serve as a change-of-pace back who can provide an explosive element to the offense. His speed and quickness allow him to hit the edge and make big plays in the open field.
Improved Offensive Line Play: The Texas offensive line has been solid in recent years, and with continued improvement in 2025, Moss could benefit from better blocking, allowing him to maximize his potential.

Moss might not be the starter in 2025, but if he can carve out a role in the Texas backfield, he has the ability to be a game-changer. Whether it’s in a committee approach or as a situational weapon, Moss has the tools to make a significant impact.

5. Austin Jordan – Cornerback

In 2025, the Texas Longhorns will need to replace key players in the secondary, and cornerback Austin Jordan could be the player to step up and fill that void. After a redshirt season in 2024, Jordan has the potential to become one of the top cornerbacks in the Big 12, making him a candidate for a breakout campaign.

Why Jordan could break out:

High Football IQ: Jordan’s ability to read the quarterback and make plays on the ball is one of his standout traits. His awareness and instincts are at an elite level, which allows him to anticipate plays and make critical stops.
Physical Tools: Jordan possesses the size (6’0″, 190 lbs) and speed to compete at a high level in the Big 12. He is tough in press coverage and shows a great ability to stay with wide receivers down the field.
Increased Opportunity: With some experienced corners graduating, Jordan will likely have the chance to start and showcase his abilities as a key member of the Texas secondary. If he can perform up to his potential, he could become a lockdown corner for the Longhorns.

Jordan’s development in 2025 could be crucial for the Texas defense. If he can take the next step in his growth, he could become one of the best cornerbacks in the conference and a major playmaker for the Longhorns.