In preparation for their upcoming match against the Washington Huskies in the Sugar Bowl, the Texas Longhorns have been hit with the departure of five players entering the NCAA transfer portal. These changes have prompted a reevaluation of the team's scholarship board.

As the December transfer window opened on Monday, head coach Steve Sarkisian's program has experienced its fair share of players entering the NCAA transfer portal. The current roster matrix has undergone significant changes as a result.

Among the departures is redshirt freshman edge Kris Ross, who left the program in late October but has yet to enter the transfer portal.

Four super seniors on the Texas roster have reached the end of their eligibility. Junior defensive tackle Byron Murphy has received an invitation to the Senior Bowl, indicating his intention to enter the 2024 NFL Draft. Other draftable players who still have a COVID year of eligibility remaining include senior wide receiver Jordan Whittington, senior defensive tackle Alfred Collins, senior linebacker Jaylan Ford, senior nickel back Jahdae Barron, and senior cornerback Ryan Watts. With the exception of Collins, who faces a decision on whether to return to school or enter the draft, the rest of the players are expected to declare for the NFL Draft.

Redshirt junior Jake Majors, a December graduate, is yet to decide on his future. However, it is anticipated that he will choose to return to the Longhorns for another season.

Several other players on the roster also have a COVID year available to them. This group includes senior running back Keilan Robinson, senior wide receiver Isaiah Neyor, senior defensive tackle Trill Carter, senior linebacker David Gbenda, senior safety Jerrin Thompson, and senior safety Kitan Crawford.

Draft-eligible players who may declare for the NFL Draft include redshirt sophomore quarterback Quinn Ewers, junior wide receiver Xavier Worthy, junior wide receiver AD Mitchell, and junior tight end Ja'Tavion Sanders. Retaining any of these players for another season would be a significant boost for the Texas program.

Despite the developments in the transfer portal and potential departures, the Longhorns currently hold 20 commitments in the No. 10-ranked recruiting class. Additionally, they remain focused on securing a few more targets, such as defensive back Kobe Black, safety Xavier Filsaime, athlete Hunter Andrews, and several defensive linemen.

As Texas evaluates their needs in the transfer portal, the number of potential recruits is projected to be between five and seven. The team is already identifying targets to address these needs and strengthen their roster.

With a mix of departures, potential draft declarations, and recruiting commitments, the Texas Longhorns are navigating a transformative period as they prepare for their Sugar Bowl matchup and plan for the future.