The Texas Longhorns are reaching into their past to shape their future-and they might’ve just made their most important move yet in the Steve Sarkisian era.
Will Muschamp is coming back to Austin.
The former Longhorns defensive coordinator, who made his mark on the Forty Acres from 2008 to 2010, is returning to lead the defense once again, this time after a strong run as co-defensive coordinator at Georgia. For a program that’s been knocking on the door of elite status, this hire feels less like a reunion and more like a statement of intent.
Let’s be clear: Texas didn’t have a bad defense in 2025. But for a team with national title aspirations, “good” isn’t good enough.
The Longhorns finished the season ranked 36th nationally and ninth in the SEC-numbers that don’t quite match the talent they’ve been stacking on the recruiting trail. Meanwhile, Muschamp’s Georgia unit finished the regular season ranked 13th in the country and fourth in the SEC, continuing the Bulldogs’ tradition of defensive dominance.
That kind of performance speaks volumes.
It’s no wonder the buzz in Austin is real.
Emmanuel Acho, a former Texas linebacker who knows Muschamp’s coaching style firsthand, didn’t mince words when reacting to the news. In a video posted to social media, Acho called it “the greatest news in the last three, four years” for the Longhorns. That’s high praise from someone who’s been in the trenches-and it wasn’t just hyperbole.
“Signing Will Muschamp is better than any recruit,” Acho said. “Because Will Muschamp can turn any three-star recruit into an NFL Draft pick. Will Muschamp can turn a five-star recruit into a top-10 pick.”
That’s the kind of impact Texas is banking on.
Muschamp has always been known for his intense, detail-oriented approach. He’s not just a coach-he’s a teacher, and one of the best defensive minds in college football.
His players don’t just learn schemes; they learn how to play fast, physical, and smart. That’s exactly what the Longhorns need as they continue their transition into the SEC, where the margin for error is razor-thin and the competition is relentless.
But this hire isn’t just about fixing the defense. It’s about gaining an edge across the board.
Muschamp’s time at Georgia gives Texas a unique window into the inner workings of one of college football’s powerhouse programs. Whether it’s scheme tendencies, player development strategies, or simply understanding the SEC grind, Muschamp brings a wealth of insider knowledge that could benefit the Longhorns far beyond the defensive meeting room.
The full impact of this move won’t be felt until the 2026 season kicks off, but the tone has already shifted. This isn’t just about bringing back a familiar face. It’s about importing a mindset-a relentless, no-nonsense approach to defense that could finally bridge the gap between Texas being a contender and becoming a champion.
If Muschamp delivers the way many expect, the Longhorns won’t just be tougher on defense. They’ll be dangerous.