The Longhorns’ new pass rusher could be on the verge of a breakout season.
Texas’ loss to Washington drew criticism for the Longhorns’ failure to get to Michael Penix Jr. from the edge spots. But Texas could be better in those areas by 2024, thanks in large part to a transfer portal coup that brought in UTSA’s Trey Moore.
Moore isn’t the only experienced edge player joining the Longhorns, who also have a number of outstanding incoming freshmen. Moore, on the other hand, appears to be the most likely upgrade due to his established collegiate experience.
“The transfer I would plant my flag on moving up from G5 to P5 and having the most success is edge (#1) Trey Moore without a doubt,” wrote Clint Brewster, a 247Sports prospect analyst.
Moore is the No. 4 edge player and No. 20 in the transfer portal. It’s a ranking he achieved after two outstanding seasons at UTSA. In 2022, he recorded 59 tackles, 18.0 tackles for loss, and 8.0 sacks, which led the Conference USA. Moore played in two less games this year, but he recorded 45 tackles, 17.5 tackles for loss, and 14.0 sacks, as well as a pass interception. Moore led the AAC* in tackles for loss and sacks, and he was named the conference’s defensive player of the year.
*UTSA switched from Conference USA to the AAC over the offseason.
“Easily one of the most explosive edge players in the portal,” Brewster stated in a statement. “On tape, he consistently beats blocks to the spot and closes up on the ball carrier. Ball awareness and recognizing where plays are going is exceptional. He can handle off-ball duties in space, drop into coverage, or come off the edge; he had 13 sacks last season. He’s been one of my favorite players to watch in the transfer portal because of his ability to influence the game and dominate. A truly dynamic player, with instincts, strength, and ball acceleration. Moore is not the biggest or tallest defender, but he uses his low center of gravity to get leverage and shift direction. “I believe he will make a significant impact in the SEC next season.”
Moore is one of eight signees in Texas’ transfer class, which ranks ninth nationally despite being much smaller than other transfer classes.
These transfers are divided into two groups: four on offense, where Texas is trying to replace numerous wideouts and tight end Ja’Tavion Sanders, and four on defense. Moore and defensive lineman Tiaoalii Savea are on the line, Kendrick Blackshire has joined the linebackers, and Andrew Mukuba is working to improve the safety position.