The Longhorns are just less than two weeks from facing off against Michigan in Orlando, and many players have decided to opt-out of the game in favor of the NFL Draft. One that seemed to be trending that way was Jack Endries, prior to today when he announced he will play in the bowl game for the Longhorns. After, he will evaluate his NFL prospects and make a decision on his future.
I wrote a piece last week about the players Sarkisian and company have to try to hold onto and Endries was on that list. This is a massive step in that direction, but there is obviously still work to be done. Keeping Endries in the TE room in 2026 not only gives Texas a veteran presence, but frees up the portal budget for more offensive linemen. Not to mention, I believe one more year for Endries would be beneficial for the Longhorns and his NFL prospects.
This season did not go as expected for the Cal transfer, but there was a clear uptick late in the season, shining in the Texas A&M game. I believe Endries has the ability to take a sizable leap in 2026 and reach Gunnar Helm levels of production. When you add Nick Townsend and Emaree Winston, the TE room at Texas could be a true strength if #88 returns to Austin.
This is a decision that, no matter what, is recoverable from. If Endries decides to test his chances in the draft, there will be TEs in the portal that can fill that void, especially with the young talent in that room. That being said, if Endries returns, I believe it makes the portal much easier to navigate and he can reach the heights Longhorns fans hoped he would this season.
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Have to imagine Sarkisian feels the same and I’d bet it leads to a game plan designed to get the ball to Endries early and often, then you wait with batted breath on his decision.
This article originally appeared on Longhorns Wire: Texas TE Endries delays NFL decision, to play in Cheez-It Citrus Bowl
