Graceson Littleton: A Rising Star in Texas Football
Graceson Littleton, a standout freshman on the Texas football team, faced some of the toughest competition in college football last year, squaring off against powerhouses like Ohio State, Oklahoma, and Georgia. Now, as a rising sophomore, Littleton is gearing up for another season with the Longhorns, and he recently shared his thoughts with the media after Texas wrapped up their second spring practice.
Reflecting on his first year, Littleton described it as a valuable learning experience. "Last year showed me the areas I need to work on," he admitted. "I have a lot to improve."
When pressed on specifics, Littleton was candid. "Honestly, everything," he said.
"I'm not perfect in anything. I'm good, but there's always room to grow."
Immediate Impact and Impressive Stats
Littleton, recruited from Tampa, Florida, but raised in Kansas, made waves as soon as he arrived in Austin. A four-star recruit from the 2025 class, he was an early enrollee who quickly impressed during spring and preseason practices. By the season opener against Ohio State, Littleton had earned playing time, and by the second game, he was a starter.
His freshman year stats speak volumes: 47 tackles, six pass breakups, two interceptions, and two forced fumbles. Littleton started eight games for a Texas team that finished 10-3, capping the season with a victory over Michigan in the Citrus Bowl.
Former UT edge rusher Ethan Burke praised Littleton's mindset during the 2025 season. "Grayson has a really good mentality. He's confident, knows his job, and believes in himself," Burke said.
Versatility in the Secondary
Standing at 6-foot and 185 pounds, Littleton primarily played nickelback last year, with 495 of his 616 defensive snaps in the slot, according to Pro Football Focus. However, this could change under new defensive coordinator Will Muschamp, who values versatility.
Texas coach Steve Sarkisian explained that Muschamp's approach at Georgia often involved players like Malaki Starks, who now plays for the Ravens, shifting between safety and nickelback depending on the down. "You're going to see Grayson do both," Sarkisian said. "The more our guys can do, the better it will be for us long-term."
Littleton is open to playing both cornerback and nickelback, and he's eager to learn from new cornerbacks coach Mark Orphey, who originally recruited him at Rutgers.
As Littleton prepares for the upcoming season, expectations are high. His adaptability and determination suggest he's ready to take on whatever challenges come his way, solidifying his role as a key player in Texas' secondary.