Texas makes late addition, welcomes back veteran offensive lineman
Published:
Offensive lineman Cole Hutson is back with Texas football as the Longhorns prepare for the 2026 season, according to ESPN.
Hutson was a 2022 high school recruit who has already played 4 seasons of college football, but was granted an extra year of eligibility — along with others from his class — for the 2026 season as college football moves to a 5-in-5 model.
Hutson’s move back to Austin comes after he participated in minicamps with the Cleveland Browns and Dallas Cowboys. He also previously filed a lawsuit in Texas seeking an additional year of college eligibility.
Like our coverage? Make SDS a preferred source in your searches!
Hutson played 645 snaps for the Longhorns last season. He split time between left guard and center and finished 4th among all Texas offensive linemen in total snaps.
Hutson excelled as a run blocker, earning a 71.6 grade from Pro Football Focus. He allowed just 2 sacks all season, per PFF.
It remains to be seen what kind of a role Hutson will have with the Longhorns in 2026, but at minimum he would presumably be useful as an experienced reserve. Texas did add several transfers at offensive line this past offseason, including Laurence Seymore at left guard.
In any case, Hutson strengthens a Texas offense that will face huge expectations this fall. The Longhorns are entering the year as one of the top favorites to win the SEC and have significant College Football Playoff aspirations.
Spenser is a news editor for Saturday Down South and covers college football across all Saturday Football brands.
