The Texas Longhorns have seen more action in the transfer portal this offseason than they’re used to-and not in the way they’d prefer. A number of players have opted to take their talents elsewhere, but for at least a few of them, the grass may not end up being greener. Let’s break down three notable departures and why their decisions might come with some second thoughts down the line.
LB Elijah “Bo” Barnes - A Missed Opportunity in the Middle
Elijah Barnes wasn’t just another name on the roster-he was one of the top linebacker recruits in the 2025 class and had all the tools to step into a major role in 2026. With Anthony Hill Jr. and Liona Lefau both moving on, the door was wide open for Barnes to take over at MIKE linebacker, a role tailor-made for his physical, downhill style that fits Will Muschamp’s defensive philosophy to a tee.
Barnes had the look of a natural fit alongside Rasheem Biles and Ty’Anthony Smith in what could’ve been one of the most athletic linebacker groups in the Big 12. Instead, he chose to follow running back C.J.
Baxter to Kentucky. It’s a move that raises eyebrows-not because Barnes lacks talent, but because the opportunity he left behind in Austin may have been his clearest path to early stardom.
OG Nate Kibble - A Starting Spot That Slipped Away
Nate Kibble’s transfer flew a bit more under the radar, but make no mistake-this one could sting down the road. The interior of Texas' offensive line is in transition, and Kibble was well-positioned to push for the starting job at left guard. The coaching staff had been high on his development, and with Dylan Sikorski likely leading the race, Kibble would’ve been his top competition heading into spring ball.
Instead, Baylor swooped in quickly after Kibble hit the portal on January 3rd, adding a promising piece to their own O-line room. For Texas, it’s a depth hit. For Kibble, it might be a case of leaving just as the door was about to open.
WR Parker Livingstone - A Head-Scratcher at Wideout
Of all the portal departures, Parker Livingstone’s exit might be the most surprising. He was set to return as Texas’ starting “X” receiver-a position that’s poised to thrive in Steve Sarkisian’s retooled, vertical-heavy passing attack. With Arch Manning entrenched as the starter and deep threats like Ryan Wingo and Cam Coleman flanking him, Livingstone was in prime position to build on a breakout 2025 campaign.
The reasons behind his departure remain unclear, but the timing is puzzling. Whether it was a financial decision or a shift in the coaching staff’s long-term vision, it’s hard to ignore what Livingstone is leaving behind: a starting role in one of the most dynamic offenses in the country, with a quarterback who already trusts him.
Final Thoughts
Texas still boasts a loaded roster and a coaching staff that knows how to reload, not just rebuild. But these three departures, while not devastating, represent missed opportunities-for both the players and the program.
Barnes, Kibble, and Livingstone were all in line for meaningful roles in 2026. Now, they’ll be chasing those same opportunities elsewhere, and only time will tell if those decisions pay off.
For Texas, the message is clear: the portal era brings constant change, but also constant competition. And for those who stay, the chance to shine is very much alive.