Texas Longhorns Enter May Transition Period After Spring Practice
With spring practice and the academic semester wrapped up, the Texas Longhorns have entered a transitional phase in May—the longest downtime players get all year. While athletes rest and regroup, the coaching staff, led by Steve Sarkisian, is out on the recruiting trail visiting high schools and building relationships, particularly with prospects in the 2027 class.
“This month is unique,” Sarkisian said during an appearance at the Houston Touchdown Club. “Our coaches are on the road recruiting, players are finishing finals, and they get a bit of a break before returning in June.”
Recruiting timelines have shifted dramatically in recent years. What once spanned several seasons now unfolds much faster, with early Signing Day in December pushing visits and evaluations into the spring. According to Sarkisian, assistants are essentially conducting in-home visits during this period—something that used to happen much later.
Despite a later end to Texas’ spring practice, coaches are working quickly to catch up, especially in-state. Sarkisian emphasized the need to be adaptable and organized with recruiting efforts.
Alongside 2027 offers, Texas has its eye on 2025 running back Carsyn Baker—a top-200 prospect with blazing speed who has visits lined up with major programs like Clemson and Florida State.
The Longhorns also secured a commitment from top long snapper Trott O’Neal following a visit from special teams coordinator Jeff Banks.
Back in Austin, facilities remain open for voluntary workouts, but Sarkisian is urging players to take a mental and physical breather. “This is a year-round commitment, so a little time off is good,” he said, noting players naturally return early anyway.
However, the break hasn’t been perfect. Early enrollee Nick Brooks was arrested for DWI, highlighting the importance of maturity during this unstructured time.
As summer approaches, Texas will welcome three more high school signees and six spring transfer additions. Sarkisian is confident that the core of the team—now familiar with the program’s expectations—will be ready to “hit the ground running” come June.
Summer workouts begin in early June with heavy lifting, conditioning, and skill development. The lead-up to the Aug. 30 season opener against Ohio State will also include Culture Wednesdays—mental preparation sessions that are key to building team chemistry.
“This next stretch is about getting into the mindset that the season could go through January,” Sarkisian said. “So now’s the time for players to recharge and be ready.”
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