Texas has made a significant move to bolster its defensive lineup for the 2025 season by signing former Big Ten defensive lineman Cole Brevard. The news was first reported by On3’s Pete Nakos, and it marks an exciting addition for the Longhorns as they look to enhance their defensive prowess.
Texas adds Cole Brevard from the transfer portal
Brevard’s journey through college football has been quite the ride. Originally a member of the 2020 recruiting class, he was highly regarded as a four-star recruit and ranked as the No. 30 defensive lineman in the nation according to the On3 Industry Rankings. However, his early years at Penn State were challenging; he did not see any game action in 2020 and opted to redshirt in 2021.
After his time at Penn State, Brevard transferred to Purdue ahead of the 2022 season. This move proved fruitful as he played in all 14 games, contributing 10 tackles during a season that culminated in the Boilermakers reaching the Big Ten Championship Game. His performance showcased his potential, setting the stage for his subsequent seasons.
Brevard’s impressive stats at Purdue
During the 2023 season, Brevard continued to build on his success, appearing and starting in all 12 games for Purdue. He recorded 9 tackles, including 2.5 tackles for loss, solidifying his reputation as a formidable defensive presence. With a total of 19 tackles, 5.5 tackles for loss, and 1.5 sacks during his time with the Boilermakers, it’s clear that Brevard has the skills to make an impact in the Big 12.
What does this mean for Texas? With Brevard on board, the Longhorns are not just adding depth to their defensive line but also a player who has proven he can perform at a high level in a competitive conference. His experience and on-field performance will be invaluable as Texas aims for a stronger defensive showing in the upcoming seasons.
Justice Finkley’s departure opens up opportunities
Interestingly, Brevard’s signing comes on the heels of another significant development for Texas. Defensive end Justice Finkley recently announced his intention to enter the NCAA Transfer Portal. This decision opens up opportunities for new talent to step in and make their mark on the Longhorns’ defense.
Finkley shared his plans with On3’s Hayes Fawcett, indicating that he will be leaving Texas with one year of collegiate eligibility remaining. Having spent the last three seasons with the Longhorns, Finkley has played in over 30 games, accumulating 26 tackles, 2.5 sacks, and a forced fumble. His departure could create a gap that Brevard is well-positioned to fill.
Finkley’s journey at Texas
Finkley’s journey at Texas has been noteworthy. Most of his contributions came during his sophomore year, where he recorded 14 tackles, two sacks, and a forced fumble. However, his production dipped in his junior season, where he managed just five tackles over six games. A native of Trussville, Alabama, Finkley was a highly touted recruit, ranked as the No. 126 overall player in the 2022 cycle and one of the top edge prospects in his class. His decision to transfer reflects the competitive nature of college football and the constant evolution of rosters.
As Finkley prepares for his next chapter, Texas is poised to welcome Brevard, who brings a wealth of experience and talent to the table. The Longhorns are clearly focused on building a robust defense, and Brevard’s addition is a testament to that commitment.
What’s next for Texas football?
As Texas continues to navigate the transfer portal, fans are left wondering what other moves might be on the horizon. The addition of Brevard is just one piece of the puzzle, but it’s a significant one. With the Longhorns aiming for a return to prominence in college football, each signing will be crucial in shaping the team’s future.
For those eager to stay updated on the latest player movements, the On3 Transfer Portal wire is an excellent resource. Social media platforms like Instagram and Twitter are also buzzing with the latest news, making it easier than ever for fans to follow their favorite teams and players.
In summary, the addition of Cole Brevard to the Texas Longhorns is an exciting development for the program. With his proven track record and the recent departure of Justice Finkley, Texas is clearly making strategic moves to strengthen its defense. As the 2025 season approaches, all eyes will be on how these changes will impact the Longhorns’ performance on the field. The future looks bright for Texas football, and fans can’t wait to see what’s next!
