So glad we didn’t trade Michael Mayer, these 2 TE sets are gonna go crazy with Geno Smith at QB.
In a surprising but increasingly familiar move in today’s college football landscape, redshirt freshman offensive guard Marcus Taylor has officially announced his departure from the University of Texas football program—despite never taking a snap in a Longhorns uniform. Taylor, a former four-star recruit from Houston, made the announcement Monday via social media, citing “a need for a fresh start” and thanking the Texas coaching staff for the opportunity.
Highly Touted Arrival
Taylor arrived on the Forty Acres in the summer of 2023 as part of a top-5 nationally ranked recruiting class. At 6-foot-5 and 315 pounds, he was considered one of the most physically gifted interior linemen in the state of Texas, drawing comparisons to former All-American Connor Williams. A product of North Shore High School—a perennial powerhouse—Taylor was expected to contend for playing time early in his career.
However, Taylor redshirted his freshman year, as the Longhorns returned several experienced linemen and brought in transfers who helped fortify the offensive front. Though he saw action in spring practices and fall camp, he struggled with consistency and conditioning, which reportedly kept him from climbing the depth chart.
A Sudden Goodbye
The timing of Taylor’s departure has raised eyebrows. The announcement comes just days before the conclusion of spring practice, and insiders say Taylor had been absent from team activities over the past week. While there is no indication of disciplinary issues, sources close to the program suggest Taylor may have become disillusioned with his role and his path to playing time in a crowded offensive line room.
Taylor’s message on social media was respectful and appreciative: