Steve Sarkisian Breaks Down Texas Longhorns’ New Transfer Additions

As the college football landscape continues to evolve with the rise of the transfer portal, few coaches have navigated this new era as effectively as Texas Longhorns head coach Steve Sarkisian. With the program aiming to remain a national contender heading into the SEC, Sarkisian has strategically targeted players who not only fill immediate roster needs but also align with the culture and competitiveness he’s instilling in Austin.

Let’s break down each of the key additions Sarkisian and his staff brought in through the portal, and how he envisions them impacting the team.

1. Cole Brevard (Defensive Tackle – Purdue)

Sarkisian has been vocal about beefing up the interior of the defensive line, especially with the departure of key veterans.

“Cole brings something we’ve been looking for—size, experience, and leadership in the trenches,” Sarkisian said. “He’s 6’3, 330-plus and he’s battle-tested in the Big Ten.”

Brevard’s ability to occupy double teams and plug gaps should free up linebackers behind him, while his leadership has already shown through during spring practices. Sarkisian emphasized how Brevard’s maturity helps set the tone for the younger linemen in the room.

2. Brad Spence (Linebacker – Arkansas)

Spence, a Houston native, was a high-profile target in the portal. His versatility was a selling point for Sarkisian, who needs linebackers capable of playing in space and contributing on blitzes.

“Brad’s got a nose for the football. You watch the tape—he can drop back, he can hit the edge, and he plays sideline to sideline,” Sarkisian noted. “He’s what we call a three-down linebacker.”

With 54 tackles, 6 TFLs, and 4.5 sacks last season, Spence is expected to slide into a rotational or even starting role depending on how fall camp shakes out. Sarkisian also pointed out his special teams prowess, something often overlooked in transfer evaluations.

3. Jack Bouwmeester (Punter – Utah)

A less flashy but critical pickup was punter Jack Bouwmeester. Coming from Utah, the Australian-born punter brings consistency and technique to a role Sarkisian views as key in the SEC.

“People might not talk about punters a lot, but field position changes games—especially in tight SEC matchups. Jack gives us the edge there,” said Sarkisian.

Bouwmeester averaged 45 yards per punt and was known for his hang time, directional kicking, and pinning opponents inside the 10-yard line. He’s expected to be the full-time starter.

4. Matthew Golden (Wide Receiver – Houston)

With Xavier Worthy and Jordan Whittington moving on, the receiver room needed instant contributors. Enter Matthew Golden, a polished route runner with strong hands and YAC potential.

“Matthew’s got SEC-level toughness, plain and simple,” Sarkisian said. “He reminds me a lot of the guys we had at Alabama—just a natural separator who competes for every ball.”

Golden put up nearly 1,000 yards and 13 touchdowns over two years at Houston. Sarkisian envisions Golden thriving in motion and slot roles within his spread offense, adding: “We want to get him the ball early and often.”

5. Andrew Mukuba (Safety – Clemson)

Safety was another area of concern for Texas, and Sarkisian made a splash with Andrew Mukuba, a former Freshman All-American at Clemson.

“Andrew gives us range on the backend, and he plays with that edge you want from a DB,” said Sarkisian. “He’s got that mix of physicality and IQ we’ve needed in our secondary.”

Mukuba, who played in over 30 games at Clemson, is expected to be a starter from day one. Sark mentioned his ability to play both deep safety and in the box, which adds versatility to the Longhorns’ defensive packages.

6. Trey Moore (Edge – UTSA)

If there was a marquee name from the portal class, it’s Trey Moore. The 2023 AAC Defensive Player of the Year is coming off a monster season: 14 sacks and 17.5 tackles for loss at UTSA.

“Trey’s one of those guys that just has a knack for the quarterback,” said Sarkisian. “He’s quick, he bends, and he’s violent with his hands.”

Sarkisian praised Moore’s ability to win one-on-one pass rushes and disrupt rhythm. With the SEC’s loaded offensive lines, having a true edge rusher was a must.

“He’s a guy we’re building a scheme around,” Sark said flatly.

7. Velton Gardner (Running Back – SMU)

Depth at running back became a concern after a series of injuries last year. Gardner, a sixth-year senior, joins the Longhorns after productive stints at Kansas and SMU.

“Velton is a pro. He knows how to take care of his body, he’s seen it all, and he brings a calming presence to that room,” Sarkisian said.

Gardner isn’t expected to be the lead back, but he’s a reliable third-down option with strong pass protection skills and good vision. He’ll serve as a stabilizing force behind younger backs.

Sarkisian’s Transfer Portal Philosophy

When asked about his approach to the transfer portal, Sarkisian was clear: it’s about fit, not flash.

“We’re not going in there chasing stars or headlines,” he said. “We’re identifying guys who can help us win games—who understand the standard here and are ready to buy into the culture.”

That culture, as Sarkisian continues to define it, is built around toughness, accountability, and high football IQ. Several transfers were vetted not just for their play, but their personality and locker room impact.

“We spend more time on character than highlight reels,” he noted.

Managing Departures: “Once You’re Out, You’re Out”

While Texas was aggressive in adding talent, Sarkisian was equally clear about players who chose to leave.

“We respect the portal. But we’ve got a rule—once you’re in it, we’re moving on,” he said.

One high-profile example was wide receiver Johntay Cook, a former five-star recruit who entered the portal. Sarkisian didn’t waver.

“It’s not a threat; it’s just the way we operate. This is about the team. If you’re not all in, you’re out.”

This hardline approach has earned Sark respect among coaches and alumni alike, sending a clear message about expectations in the locker room.

Building Toward the SEC Transition

With Texas officially joining the SEC, the urgency to upgrade the roster has never been greater. Sarkisian believes this transfer class positions the Longhorns for immediate competitiveness in what will be a brutal new conference gauntlet.

“Every player we brought in—every single one—can play SEC ball,” he stated. “That’s the bar now. We’re not just trying to compete; we’re trying to win titles.”

The 2025 schedule features heavy hitters like Alabama, Georgia, and Texas A&M. With the mix of experienced transfers and returning talent, Texas has the depth and leadership to make a push.

“This is a grown man’s league. You need grown men in your locker room. And we got ‘em.”

Final Thoughts

Steve Sarkisian’s handling of the transfer portal in 2024-2025 is a case study in modern roster management. Every addition served a strategic purpose—bolstering a weakness, injecting leadership, or raising the athletic ceiling at a key position.

With spring practice wrapped and fall camp looming, the message is clear: Texas isn’t just adapting to college football’s new era—they’re using it to their advantage.

And according to Sarkisian, they’re just getting started.