Grading every winter portal addition for Texas

Texas Lands Another Defensive Force! Grading the Longhorns’ Winter Transfer Haul

The Texas Longhorns continue to build a powerhouse defense through the transfer portal, and their latest addition is a big one—literally. Former Ohio State defensive tackle Hero Kanu has committed to Texas, further solidifying the defensive line as the Longhorns prepare for the 2025 season.

With Kanu on board, head coach Steve Sarkisian and his staff have now secured five key transfers this winter, focusing on defense and special teams. While Texas still has a few gaps to fill in the spring transfer window, they’ve already addressed major needs early in the offseason.

Here’s how the Longhorns’ winter portal additions grade out so far:


Brad Spence, LB (Transfer from Arkansas) – Grade: B+

Former Arkansas linebacker Brad Spence might be one of the most underrated pickups for Texas this offseason. The sophomore brings SEC experience and adds much-needed depth to the linebacker corps.

The best part? Spence has multiple years of eligibility left, giving him time to develop and make a lasting impact on the Longhorns’ defense.


Jack Bouwmeester, P (Transfer from Utah) – Grade: A

When it comes to special teams, Texas wasted no time finding an elite punter. Former Utah standout Jack Bouwmeester was a first-team all-conference selection, and his arrival immediately stabilizes the punting game.

With Bouwmeester handling punts, Texas can better control field position in 2025 while allowing freshman Michael Kern another year to develop.


Cole Brevard, DT (Transfer from Purdue) – Grade: A

Texas needed an experienced and dominant interior lineman, and they got one in former Purdue star Cole Brevard. At 6-foot-3, 320 pounds, Brevard is a disruptive force who can plug up the middle and collapse the pocket.

Defensive line coach Kenny Baker praised Brevard’s work ethic, saying:
“Cole Brevard, he brings a workman’s mentality. He’s been at Penn State and Purdue, and he knows what it’s supposed to look like as far as coming in with the right mindset and mentality every day.”

With his ability to stop the run and pressure the quarterback, Brevard is a perfect fit for the Texas defense.


Travis Shaw, DT (Transfer from North Carolina) – Grade: A

If you’re looking for pure upside, Travis Shaw is the name to watch. The former UNC standout is a massive presence at 6-foot-3, 330 pounds and has the size, strength, and athleticism to dominate in the trenches.

With Texas losing Alfred Collins to the NFL Draft, Shaw has the chance to step in and be a game-changer on the defensive line. If he reaches his full potential, he could be one of the best transfers in the entire SEC.


Hero Kanu, DT (Transfer from Ohio State) – Grade: B+

The latest addition to the Longhorns’ transfer haul, Hero Kanu, brings raw power and size to Texas’ defensive line. While he’s still developing as a pass rusher, Kanu has the quickness and strength to make an impact against the run.

With Texas loading up on defensive linemen, Kanu adds even more depth to a revamped front seven that should be one of the SEC’s toughest in 2025.


Final Thoughts

Texas has nailed this transfer cycle so far, loading up on impact players across the defensive line and special teams. With more moves likely coming in the spring, the Longhorns are building a roster capable of competing for an SEC title.

Keep an eye on Steve Sarkisian and company—they aren’t done making noise just yet.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *