Texas football is heading into year two of the Charlie Strong era, which means increased expectations and a fan base hungry for a return to the top of the college football mountain. That will take some time, but a few players have produced breakout performances in camp and should make an impact on the field this season. Here are three guys that really impressed the coaching staff during fall camp:
TE DeAndre McNeal
McNeal has gotten a lot of work with the first team since Blake Whiteley went down with an injury, and he has played his way into have a role with the offense in Week 1. Strong is very excited about how he can use the freshman:
"We just know this, that he can create a mismatch problem for a lot of [defenses] because you can take him—he's a big receiver is what he is and you can take him and move him outside and he can be a guy that can float for you. The thing about it is a lot of times when you move a guy at a position, a lot of them don't want to accept that move. But he came to me, he said, "Hey, Coach, I've gained a lot of weight. I don't know if I can go outside and play but I know I can be a move guy for you."
WR Daje Johnson
Johnson had a promising freshman season in 2012, but he hasn't scored a touchdown since the first game of 2013. However, Johnson has shown that explosiveness in camp, both on deep routes and on reverses. Now a senior, Johnson knows the time is now to make an impact:
"I feel like there's a lot of people pulling for me, I just want to prove them right," he said. "I don't want to be going out trying to be all 'What if?,' 'He could've done this.' I ain't trying to do all that. I'm trying to be remembered. I am worth the investment."
RB Chris Warren
Texas' running game will be this team's strength behind the legs of starting running back Johnathan Gray and quarterback Tyrone Swoopes, but Warren has taken advantage of all his opportunities. He'll probably still be used as the third running back behind D'Onta Foreman, but the 6'2", 232 lbs. freshman is definitely going to get some carries.
Follow our Texas Longhorns team page for all the latest Texas football news and rumors!
Back to the Texas Longhorns Newsfeed