Brad Spence, a transfer linebacker from the Arkansas Razorbacks, has made a significant announcement that has college football fans buzzing. He’s set to bring his skills to Texas, joining head coach Steve Sarkisian and the Longhorns via the NCAA Transfer Portal. This move not only highlights Spence’s ambition but also adds depth to Texas’s already competitive roster.
Brad Spence Joins the Longhorns
During his time at Arkansas, Spence showcased his talent on the field, recording an impressive 54 tackles, including 6.0 tackles for loss and 4.5 sacks, along with one pass breakup in the 2024 season. His performance has set high expectations as he transitions to Austin, where he aims to replicate that same level of tenacity and skill. Fans are eager to see how he will fit into the Longhorns’ defensive scheme and contribute to their pursuit of excellence in the upcoming season.
Finkley Enters the Portal
As Spence arrives, the Texas Longhorns are also witnessing some departures. Defensive end Justice Finkley has announced his decision to enter the NCAA Transfer Portal, adding another layer of intrigue to the Longhorns’ roster changes. Finkley shared his intentions with On3’s Hayes Fawcett, marking the end of his journey at Texas after three seasons.
Finkley leaves with one year of collegiate eligibility remaining, having played in over 30 games during his time on The 40 Acres. His stats include 26 tackles, 2.5 sacks, and a forced fumble, showcasing his potential as a valuable asset for any program looking to bolster its defensive line. Most notably, during his sophomore season, Finkley made a significant impact with 14 tackles, two sacks, and a forced fumble, proving he can perform at a high level when given the opportunity.
Finkley’s High School Credentials
Finkley, a native of Trussville, Alabama, was a standout player at Hewitt-Trussville High School, where he earned recognition as a four-star prospect. He was ranked as the No. 126 overall player in the 2022 recruiting cycle, according to the On3 Industry Ranking. His impressive credentials included being rated as a Top-15 edge rusher in his class and the No. 6 player from Alabama. This pedigree made him one of the highest-rated signees for Texas in a recruiting class that finished fifth in the On3’s 2022 Industry Team Recruiting Rankings.
Keeping Up with the Transfer Portal
As the landscape of college football continues to evolve, staying informed about player movements is crucial. For fans eager to keep up with the latest transfers, resources like On3’s Transfer Portal wire are invaluable. These platforms provide real-time updates on players entering and exiting programs, ensuring that fans are always in the loop.
Additionally, the On3 Transfer Portal Instagram account and Twitter account serve as excellent resources for those looking to track the latest developments in college football. With the transfer portal becoming a pivotal aspect of team building, these channels offer insights and updates that are essential for avid followers of the sport.
Spence’s High School Background
Before making his mark at Arkansas, Spence played high school football at Klein Forest in Texas. As a three-star prospect, he was ranked as the No. 847 overall recruit in the 2023 cycle, according to the On3 Industry Ranking. His journey from high school to the collegiate level exemplifies the dedication and hard work that players put into their craft, and now he’s poised to take the next step in his football career with the Longhorns.
The Future for Texas
With the addition of Spence and the departure of Finkley, the Texas Longhorns are in a state of transition. This shifting dynamic within the team presents both challenges and opportunities. As Spence integrates into the program, his experience and skills will be crucial in fortifying the Longhorns’ defense. Meanwhile, Finkley’s exit opens the door for new talent to emerge and make their mark on the field.
As the 2024 season approaches, fans will be watching closely to see how these changes impact the Longhorns’ performance. Will Spence’s contributions help elevate Texas to new heights? Can the coaching staff effectively manage the roster changes to maintain competitiveness? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain: the excitement surrounding Texas football is palpable.
As we look forward to the upcoming season, the college football landscape continues to evolve, with players like Brad Spence and Justice Finkley making headlines. The transfer portal has become a vital part of team strategies, and the Longhorns are gearing up for what promises to be an exciting season ahead.
