Texas Longhorns Special Teams: A Crucial Offseason Battle
As the Texas Longhorns evaluate their 2025 roster, special teams remain a key area of concern following a steep drop in efficiency last season. After ranking No. 17 in special teams SP+ in 2023, Texas plummeted to No. 117 in 2024, largely due to struggles in the punt game and place-kicking inconsistency. With several veterans returning and a key addition at punter, the Longhorns are hoping competition will restore their special teams to a position of strength.
The Kicker Duel: Auburn vs. Stone
Bert Auburn (Senior, K) has experienced both highs and lows during his Texas career. In 2023, he was rock-solid, hitting 29-of-35 field goals, including a perfect 10-for-10 from 30-39 yards and 2-for-4 from 50+. However, 2024 was a struggle, as he finished 16-of-25, going just 6-for-14 from 40+ yards. His late-season woes, particularly a 1-for-3 performance against Arizona State, led to Will Stone (Senior, K) taking over the starting role in the Ohio State game.
Stone, who has primarily served as Texas’ kickoff specialist since 2022, didn’t have much opportunity as a placekicker but will now battle Auburn for the job throughout the spring, summer, and fall. The fact that special teams coordinator Jeff Banks chose not to bring in a transfer kicker signals confidence that one of these two veterans can solidify the role.
Punter Upgrade: Bouwmeester Arrives
While Texas held steady at kicker, they actively sought an upgrade at punter, bringing in Jack Bouwmeester (Senior, P) from Utah. The Aussie-born punter was an All-Pac 12 first-team selection in 2023 and an All-Big 12 second-team honoree last season. In 2024, he averaged 44.7 yards per punt across 62 kicks, with 23 landing inside the 20 and 13 traveling 50+ yards. His ability to control field position will be a major asset for the Longhorns.
Michael Kern (Sophomore, P) struggled in his freshman season, averaging 41.6 yards per punt with just four punts of 50+ yards. His directional kicking was inconsistent, and some believe his holding issues may have contributed to Auburn’s accuracy struggles. However, Texas remains committed to his development and sees Bouwmeester as a mentor who can help refine his technique.
Deep Snappers Hold Steady
Lance St. Louis (Senior, DS) and Tate Haver (Junior, DS) remain in their roles, ensuring Texas has stability at long snapper.
The Path Forward
With competition at kicker, a significant upgrade at punter, and renewed emphasis on hidden yardage, Texas is hoping for a bounce-back year on special teams. If Bouwmeester can elevate the punting game and the kicker battle produces a reliable starter, the Longhorns could regain their edge in close games where special teams make the difference.
