Latest Texas Football Update: Intense Competition for Starting Right Tackle Spot Shows No Signs of Slowing

The University of Texas football team continues its preparation for the upcoming season, and one of the most closely watched position battles in fall camp remains the fight for the starting right tackle spot. As head coach Steve Sarkisian and his staff work to finalize the Longhorns’ starting lineup, the right tackle competition has emerged as one of the most heated and uncertain on the roster. With multiple talented linemen in contention, the decision will likely come down to the wire before Texas kicks off its season.

A Critical Position in Texas’ Offensive Strategy

The right tackle role is particularly significant for the Longhorns heading into the 2025 season. Texas is looking to establish a balanced and explosive offense, one that relies on protecting the quarterback while also creating lanes for a talented stable of running backs. A strong right tackle can anchor the line, handle dominant edge rushers, and give the offense the consistency it needs to execute Sarkisian’s playbook efficiently.

Offensive line coach Kyle Flood has emphasized that this position is as much about technique and mental sharpness as it is about size and strength. “The guy who wins this job is going to be the one who’s not only physically ready but can process the game at a high level,” Flood said during a recent media session. “Our offense needs a right tackle who can play with confidence and make quick adjustments.”

The Contenders for the Job

1. Kelvin Banks Jr. – While Banks has been a staple at left tackle, there have been whispers that his versatility could allow him to shift to the right side if needed. His experience as a freshman All-American makes him an intriguing option, though the coaching staff seems intent on keeping him anchored to the blind side.

2. Cameron Williams – At 6-foot-7 and 360 pounds, Williams is a physical force and has taken the bulk of the first-team reps at right tackle in practice. His sheer size and raw power make him a nightmare for defensive linemen, but the staff is pushing him to become more technically sound to consistently handle quicker edge rushers.

3. DJ Campbell – Originally recruited as a guard, Campbell has been tested at tackle in practice due to his athleticism and ability to move in space. While still somewhat unpolished at the position, his versatility and willingness to adapt make him a potential dark-horse candidate.

4. True Freshmen and Developing Depth – Texas also has several young linemen who are making a case for future playing time. While it’s unlikely that a first-year player will win the job outright, the depth they provide adds pressure to the more experienced contenders to perform at a high level.

Coaching Staff’s Approach to the Battle

Sarkisian and Flood have both stressed that the starting right tackle will not be decided by reputation or recruiting stars but by consistent performance in practice and scrimmages. They are prioritizing game-ready execution, meaning the winner will be the player who can deliver under pressure against the caliber of defensive lines Texas will face in the Big 12 and in non-conference matchups.

“We’re going to play the guy who earns it,” Sarkisian stated last week. “This isn’t about potential—it’s about who can protect our quarterback and open up holes on day one of the season. We have a lot of confidence in our room, but someone needs to take that next step.”

The staff has also rotated players extensively to simulate in-game scenarios and gauge how each lineman responds to facing different defensive looks. Scrimmages have provided valuable insight, but coaches believe the final two weeks of camp will be crucial in determining who takes the field first.

Implications for the Offense

The outcome of the right tackle battle carries significant implications for the Longhorns’ offensive identity. Texas is expected to field one of the most explosive passing attacks in the country, but that potential hinges on the offensive line’s ability to keep the pocket clean. A right tackle who struggles could lead to hurried throws, stalled drives, and unnecessary turnovers.

Conversely, a solid performer at the position could give the Longhorns the freedom to lean on play-action and deep passing concepts while also reinforcing a physical running game. With a schedule that features multiple high-stakes matchups, including early-season tests that could set the tone for a College Football Playoff push, the margin for error up front is slim.

As the Longhorns progress through the remainder of fall camp, the right tackle competition remains the most intriguing storyline. Fans and analysts alike are eager to see which player will separate himself and lock down the job. While the coaching staff could potentially rotate players in the early weeks, the preference is to have a definitive starter to build continuity along the offensive line.

Texas enters the season with high expectations, and the right tackle battle will play a pivotal role in whether those hopes are realized. If the eventual starter can meet the challenge, the Longhorns’ offense will have the foundation to compete at the highest level. Until then, the battle rages on, and every rep in practice could make the difference between starting under the lights or watching from the sidelines.