Texas Secondary ranked No. 1 by PFF heading into 2025
The Texas Longhorns’ secondary has garnered significant attention and acclaim heading into the 2025 college football season, with Pro Football Focus (PFF) ranking it as the No. 1 secondary in the nation. This distinction highlights the exceptional talent and cohesion within the unit, which has been a cornerstone of Texas’s defensive prowess.
Jahdae Barron has been a standout performer for the Longhorns, earning recognition as PFF’s highest-graded cornerback in college football. In the 2024 season, Barron achieved a remarkable 90.9 overall grade, surrendering a minuscule 27.8 passer rating into his coverage. His performance was instrumental in Texas’s success, culminating in an SEC Championship and a College Football Playoff appearance. Barron’s versatility and playmaking ability have solidified his reputation as one of the premier defensive backs in the nation.
Safety Michael Taaffe has been another pivotal figure in Texas’s secondary. Despite being overlooked for All-SEC honors, Taaffe’s performance did not go unnoticed by PFF, which named him to its All-America team. He led all safeties with a 91.3 coverage grade and surrendered only 12 completions, showcasing his exceptional ball skills and coverage ability. Taaffe’s contributions have been vital to the Longhorns’ defensive success.
Joining Taaffe in the safety positions is Andrew Mukuba, who has been a dynamic force in the secondary. Mukuba’s aggressive playstyle and ability to disrupt the passing game have been assets to Texas’s defense. His performance, including multiple interceptions and pass breakups, has been instrumental in the team’s defensive schemes. Mukuba’s presence in the secondary adds depth and versatility to the Longhorns’ defense.
Beyond the standout performances of Barron, Taaffe, and Mukuba, Texas’s secondary boasts depth and versatility that contribute to its top ranking. Sophomore Malik Muhammad has emerged as a reliable boundary corner, earning high marks for his coverage skills. Transfer additions like Jay’Vion Cole and Gavin Holmes have bolstered the cornerback positions, providing experience and competition. At safety, Derek Williams and Jelani McDonald offer additional talent and depth, ensuring that the secondary remains formidable throughout the season.
The cohesion and talent within Texas’s secondary are reflective of the overall strength of the team’s defense. With a formidable defensive line and linebacker corps complementing the secondary, the Longhorns are positioned to be a dominant defensive force in college football. The recognition from PFF underscores the collective effort and individual excellence that define Texas’s defensive unit as the best in the nation.
As the 2025 season progresses, the Longhorns’ secondary will continue to be a focal point of their defensive strategy, with expectations high for sustained success and potential championship aspirations.
