Arch Manning, Trevor Goosby, Anthony Hill and Michael Taffee have established themselves as leaders of the 2025 season”
As the 2025 college football season looms large, the University of Texas Longhorns find themselves at the precipice of a new era—one where a crop of emerging stars has established itself as the backbone of the program. Leading the charge for the Longhorns are four key players who have proven not only their individual talent but also their ability to lead, inspire, and elevate the program to new heights. Arch Manning, Trevor Goosby, Anthony Hill, and Michael Taffee are no longer just promising young players—they have firmly cemented their places as leaders of the Texas football team in the 2025 season.
This group, each with their own unique skill set, represents the future of Longhorn football, and the expectations surrounding them are enormous. While the 2024 season brought moments of brilliance and growing pains, the 2025 campaign promises to be different. With the leadership and talent of Manning, Goosby, Hill, and Taffee, the Longhorns are poised to make a significant jump in both performance and national standing. But leadership is not just about talent—it’s about setting the tone, rallying teammates, and rising to the occasion in high-pressure moments. These four players embody those qualities, and they’re ready to take the Texas Longhorns to new heights.
When Arch Manning—arguably the most highly anticipated quarterback in the history of college football—committed to Texas, the expectations surrounding him were astronomical. Manning, the nephew of NFL legends Peyton and Eli Manning, entered the Texas program with the weight of his family name on his shoulders. But he quickly proved that he was more than just a legacy recruit. By the time the 2025 season rolled around, Arch Manning was no longer just the heir to a football dynasty; he was the leader of the Longhorns offense.
Manning’s leadership was evident from the moment he stepped onto the field for his first game as a Longhorn. His poise, maturity, and football IQ were beyond his years, and it became clear that he wasn’t just another highly touted prospect—he was the real deal. Despite the pressure and expectations that followed him, Manning remained calm, collected, and focused. He showed an uncanny ability to read defenses, make quick decisions, and lead the team with a steady hand. His arm strength and accuracy made him one of the most dangerous quarterbacks in the country, but it was his leadership off the field that truly set him apart.
As the 2025 season approaches, Manning has fully embraced the role of team leader. He’s a player who not only excels on the field but also motivates his teammates in practice, in the locker room, and during games. His work ethic and attention to detail set a tone for the entire program. Manning’s ability to rally the offense, keep his teammates focused, and execute under pressure is what makes him one of the most valuable players in college football. He’s no longer just a talented young quarterback—he’s the heart and soul of the Longhorns.
Manning’s leadership extends beyond his play on the field. His natural charisma and ability to connect with teammates have helped him build strong relationships with those around him. He’s a vocal leader, but he also leads by example. His relentless drive to improve, his unwavering commitment to the team, and his ability to rise to the occasion in big moments have earned him the respect of his coaches, teammates, and fans alike. As the Longhorns enter the 2025 season with championship aspirations, Arch Manning will undoubtedly be the centerpiece of the offense, and his leadership will be crucial to Texas’ success.
While quarterbacks often get the spotlight, no team can succeed without a solid offensive line to protect its signal-caller. Enter Trevor Goosby, one of the most dominant and underrated players on the Longhorns roster. As the anchor of the offensive line, Goosby has established himself as one of the best offensive linemen in the country, and his leadership on the field is undeniable.
Goosby’s leadership doesn’t just come from his skill set, although he is an exceptional athlete in his own right. Standing 6’5” and weighing 320 pounds, Goosby combines size, strength, and agility to control the line of scrimmage and protect Manning from opposing defenders. He’s a wall of muscle and determination, but what truly sets him apart is his ability to bring his teammates together and elevate their play.
As the leader of the offensive line, Goosby has taken it upon himself to ensure that the unit operates as a cohesive, well-oiled machine. He’s constantly working with his fellow linemen, helping them improve their technique, and instilling a sense of pride in their work. His leadership extends to the younger players on the team, and he is known for mentoring the next generation of offensive linemen. He’s the type of player who holds himself accountable first and encourages his teammates to do the same.
Goosby’s experience and maturity have made him a key figure in the Longhorns’ offensive scheme. He’s a vocal leader in the locker room and on the practice field, constantly pushing himself and his teammates to be better. His leadership qualities have become a cornerstone of the offensive line’s success, and as the 2025 season kicks off, Goosby will be at the center of the Longhorns’ offensive efforts.
In addition to his on-field play, Goosby’s leadership off the field has been crucial in shaping the culture of the Texas football program. His calm demeanor, work ethic, and dedication to his craft serve as a model for younger players to follow. If the Longhorns are going to make a run at a national championship in 2025, Goosby will be one of the key figures who makes it all happen. His leadership, both on and off the field, will play a pivotal role in Texas’ success.
When it comes to defensive leadership, few players possess the raw talent and impact of linebacker Anthony Hill. A true force on the field, Hill has quickly become the leader of the Texas defense, a unit that has been steadily improving under head coach Steve Sarkisian’s leadership. Hill’s ability to take control of the defense, communicate effectively, and make game-changing plays makes him one of the most feared linebackers in college football.
Standing 6’2” and weighing 230 pounds, Hill has the perfect combination of size, speed, and instincts to be a dominant force in the middle of the field. He’s known for his ability to read plays, diagnose offensive schemes, and make plays in the backfield. Whether it’s rushing the passer, stuffing the run, or covering receivers in pass coverage, Hill does it all. His physicality and high football IQ make him a game-changer, and his leadership on the field is evident with every snap.
Hill’s presence on the field is felt by his teammates, and his leadership extends far beyond his playmaking ability. He’s an intense competitor, always focused on improving himself and pushing his teammates to do the same. He’s the type of player who leads by example, and his work ethic and relentless attitude have earned him the respect of the entire defense. Hill is also a vocal leader, constantly directing traffic, motivating his teammates, and ensuring that everyone is in the right position.
As the 2025 season progresses, Hill will continue to be the emotional and physical leader of the Texas defense. His ability to take charge, make plays, and lead the defense with unwavering confidence will be crucial for the Longhorns as they seek to make a run at the Big 12 title and beyond. If the defense is going to take the next step and become one of the best units in college football, Anthony Hill will be at the forefront of that effort.
While much of the focus in college football is placed on the offense and defense, special teams can often be the difference between victory and defeat. That’s where Michael Taffee comes in. A standout special teams player, Taffee has become a leader on the Texas squad through his consistency, versatility, and leadership on special teams.
Taffee’s impact on special teams cannot be overstated. He has been a key contributor in both the return game and coverage units, making explosive plays and providing a spark for the Longhorns when they need it most. His ability to turn the field position battle in Texas’ favor has been invaluable, and his leadership on special teams has helped elevate the entire unit.
What sets Taffee apart is his understanding of the game and his ability to execute under pressure. Whether it’s making a crucial tackle on a punt return or breaking a long kick return, Taffee has a knack for delivering in the most critical moments. His leadership extends beyond his individual performance, as he constantly encourages his teammates to give their best on every play. Taffee’s work ethic, professionalism, and passion for the game make him a natural leader in every phase of special teams.
As the 2025 season progresses, Taffee’s leadership on special teams will continue to be a vital part of Texas’ overall success. His ability to flip field position, make game-changing plays, and lead the special teams unit will be key to the Longhorns’ aspirations for a championship.
With Arch Manning, Trevor Goosby, Anthony Hill, and Michael Taffee leading the way, the Texas Longhorns have established themselves as a program poised for greatness in 2025. Each of these players has shown the ability to lead by example, inspire their teammates, and rise to the occasion in critical moments. Their combined talent, leadership, and determination will be essential as Texas looks to return to the pinnacle of college football.
The future of the Texas football program is bright, and the
2025 season will be a defining moment for these players and for the Longhorns as a whole. With their leadership, the Longhorns are ready to take the next step and contend for championships on the national stage. As the season unfolds, all eyes will be on Manning, Goosby, Hill, and Taffee to see if they can live up to the enormous expectations and lead Texas back to glory.
