AUSTIN — In the era of the transfer portal, keeping players on the roster has become just as crucial as recruiting new talent. The Texas Longhorns defense serves as a prime example of how this strategy can make a significant difference.

The transfer portal closed for new entries on Friday, and what initially appeared to be a mass exodus of defensive backs turned into a more favorable outcome. Players like Kobe Black, Warren Roberson, and Derek Williams Jr. entered the portal but later withdrew after securing revenue sharing or NIL agreements with the program.

Here’s a breakdown of the defensive side of the team, highlighting who Texas lost and gained during this cycle.

Defensive Line

Texas has built a reputation for targeting defensive linemen in the transfer portal, and it’s been an effective approach for adding depth. This cycle, however, wasn’t as aggressive, which is fine given the current circumstances.

Two players left the program: Melvin Hills III and Lavon Johnson. Both were seldom-used rotational players and may benefit from finding more playing time elsewhere.

Ian Geffrard, who previously played for Arkansas, is now making his way to Austin. He started all 12 games for the Razorbacks and recorded 25 tackles last season. With two years of eligibility remaining, he could contribute significantly beyond 2026.

Zion Williams, a nose tackle who played in five games for Louisiana State during his freshman year, has tremendous upside. Texas had targeted him in 2025 before he signed with LSU. The program is hoping to develop his potential, and he could become a multi-year player for the Longhorns.

In
– Ian Geffrard, DL (Arkansas)
– Zion Williams, DL (LSU)

Out
– Melvin Hills III, DL (UConn)
– Lavon Johnson, DL (Maryland)

Linebackers

Liona Lefau’s departure for Colorado was one of the biggest surprises of the transfer cycle. It seemed he would be the heir apparent in the middle after Anthony Hill Jr. declared for the NFL draft, but he chose to join Deion Sanders and the Buffaloes in Boulder.

Bo Barnes, who showed promise in the Cheez-It Citrus Bowl, decided to leave for Kentucky. Running back CJ Baxter also ended up at Kentucky.

Texas managed to sign Rasheem Biles from Pitt, one of the top linebackers in the portal. Biles had two interception returns for touchdowns in 2025, an impressive feat for a linebacker. He can step in alongside Ty’Anthony Smith and Brad Spence to make a big impact in 2026.

Justin Cryer from Florida State is also joining the program. With eight starts as a junior for the Seminoles, he will serve as a valuable depth piece and should see plenty of playing time.

In
– Rasheem Biles, LB (Pitt)
– Justin Cryer, LB (Florida State)

Out
– Bo Barnes, LB (Kentucky)
– Liona Lefau, LB (Colorado)

Secondary

The secondary situation could have been much worse for the Longhorns, but with key players like Black, Roberson, and Williams staying, it’s a relief for the entire program. Blake Gideon, who returned as the defensive pass game coordinator and secondary coach, likely played a role in their decision to stay.

Three defensive backs left the program, but they weren’t major contributors. Texas added Bo Mascoe from Rutgers, an honorable mention All-Big 10 selection. He started all 12 games at corner for the Scarlet Knights and recorded 53 tackles with an interception.

In
– Bo Mascoe, DB (Rutgers)

Out
– Caleb Chester, DB (Arizona State)
– Graham Gillespie, DB (North Texas)
– Santana Wilson, DB (Louisville)