Breaking: Texas Longhorns Edge Rusher Colton Vasek Undergoes Surgery, Eyes Key Role in 2025
Austin, TX – The Texas Longhorns are looking to solidify their defensive end rotation in 2025, and rising redshirt sophomore Colton Vasek is expected to play a significant role. However, the 6’5”, 260-pound edge rusher is set to undergo surgery to repair a torn labrum in his shoulder, as reported by Chip Brown of Horns247 on Sunday.
A Setback, Not a Roadblock
This surgery isn’t expected to be a long-term issue for Vasek, who already played through the 2024 season with a brace on his injured shoulder. It does, however, mark another obstacle for the former Austin Westlake standout, who also dealt with a back injury that sidelined him during his true freshman year in 2023.
A High-Profile Arrival
Vasek joined the Longhorns as part of the 2023 recruiting class, flipping his commitment from Oklahoma in a major recruiting win for Texas. Ranked as a top-100 prospect nationally and the No. 16 edge rusher in the 247Sports Composite rankings, he came with a championship pedigree, having won back-to-back state titles at Austin Westlake.
During his senior season, Vasek was a force, tallying:
- 71 tackles (53 solo)
- 14 sacks
- 7 tackles for loss
- 19 pressures
- One fumble recovery and one forced fumble
His arrival was seen as a significant boost to the Longhorns’ defensive line, bringing both skill and a winning mentality.
Finding His Footing
After missing his true freshman year, Vasek worked his way into the rotation as a redshirt freshman in 2024. He logged 81 snaps on special teams, contributing to kickoff return, punt return, and punt coverage units. On defense, he saw 65 snaps in seven games, primarily in blowouts but also in high-stakes moments like the Cotton Bowl loss to Ohio State, where he played six snaps.
In limited action, Vasek flashed his potential with:
- Seven tackles
- 2.5 tackles for loss
- Two sacks
- Six total pressures
These moments highlighted why he was such a coveted recruit, even as injuries slowed his development.
A Big Opportunity in 2025
With Barryn Sorrell graduating and Justice Finkley transferring to Kansas, Vasek is projected to be the primary backup to rising senior and former high school teammate Ethan Burke at the Jack end position. Early enrollee Lance Jackson is also expected to push for playing time, creating a competitive environment on the defensive line.
Looking Ahead
Despite the setbacks, Vasek’s future with the Longhorns remains bright. His combination of size, skill, and determination positions him as a key player in Texas’ defensive plans for 2025. With this surgery set to address lingering issues, fans and coaches alike are optimistic that Colton Vasek will emerge stronger and ready to make a significant impact.
Stay tuned as Vasek works his way back to full strength and prepares for a pivotal season on the Forty Acres.
