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Underrated Longhorn Starters: Baker, Shannon, Spence and Williams Jr.

February 12, 2026 · Yahoo Sport

As spring camp approaches, it’s time to start breaking down the Longhorns team and the players that deserve watching. Today, it’s about the four starting players that Longhorn fans should be focusing on more. This group of players aren’t the flashiest on the team, but could be equally as important to a possible Longhorns National Championship run. 

1. Brandon Baker 

Brandon Baker finds himself in a unique position this season. He is the sole projected starter on the OL that will be forced to change positions this offseason, likely moving from RT to RG in 2026. Melvin Siani is expected to be the starter at RT, moving Baker to the inside which was the major area of issue in 2025. In my opinion, Baker improved as much as any Longhorn OL last season and likely fits better as a guard moving forward. I believe Baker is going to put together a very strong season, starting with becoming a true leader this spring. 

2. Spencer Shannon 

Shannon might be the most important, yet least talked about player the Longhorns have. The amount Texas runs outside zone and stretch run plays, the need for a true in-line blocking TE is massive. Shannon fills that void incredibly well. He’s quickly become one of better blocking TEs in the SEC and as Texas moves in 2026, I expect him to play a huge role. I'm not sure he'll rack up receiving yards but he will lead the way in the run game and open opportunities for the other TEs. That's not to say he won't get his own as well but I expect him to do the "dirty work." Shannon is not a flashy player but will play a major role in the Longhorns 2026 and will likely play on Sundays for a decade.

3. Brad Spence

This is someone that has gotten lost in the shuffle but could be as important as any defensive player. Spence is so dynamic and finished the 2025 season incredibly strong. He’s likely to play LB given the questions of depth at that position but I expect him to play multiple positions in 2026. He can be the chess piece of this defense in my opinion. He will allow guys like Colin Simmons, Lance Jackson and the other pass rushers to get freed up because of his versatility. I expect a massive season from Spence and his transfer to really pay off in 2026. 

4. Derek Williams Jr. 

It felt like Derek Williams Jr. was never fully healthy this year. I think he was healthy enough to play, but not to move freely and confidently throughout the game. With another year of recovery, he should be able to do just that. Not to mention, Blake Gideon returning should bring Williams back to his freshman form. He can be a difference maker and is going to surprise some Longhorn fans in 2026. Given the ability next to him in Jelani McDonald and Muschamp’s approach defensively, I believe Willliams will be freed up to play downhill and confidently this season.

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This article originally appeared on Longhorns Wire: Shannon and Spence highlight starters due for strong 2026 campaigns

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