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Longhorns add Ty Knutson, bolstering quarterback depth behind Arch Manning

Texas adds QB Ty Knutson as the Longhorns strengthen their future behind Arch Manning and reload for SEC contention.

Texas continues shaping its championship path with the addition of QB...
Texas continues shaping its championship path with the addition of QB Ty Knutson to an already promising roster.AP Photo/Jeffrey McWhorterLAPRESSE

The Texas Longhorns continue to move the pieces on the board in their pursuit of a championship next season, and on a Saturday when all eyes are on the Super Bowl, the program announced the arrival of a new quarterback: Ty Knutson, who will now be under the direction of Steve Sarkisian.

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Knutson had become the team's top priority in order to change its trajectory after several elite prospects chose to join LSU and Texas Tech last November.

Quarterbacks coach AJ Milwee was responsible for validating on the field what reports had already suggested: a powerful arm and a natural leadership ability that fits perfectly within the offensive system of the "Horns."

Knutson's arrival adds to the atmosphere of optimism surrounding the Longhorns following the announcement of Arch Manning's return for the 2026 season. Manning, the current centerpiece of the program, will have Knutson as a potential successor who can develop without the immediate pressure of being the starter, especially after the recent signing of top-10 prospect Dia Bell.

Who is Ty Knutson and what does he bring to the Longhorns?

A native of Smithson Valley, Ty Knutson is a three-star prospect who stands out for his imposing physical frame. Although the 247Sports Composite ranking places him as the No. 51 quarterback in the nation, it was his developmental upside that truly attracted Sarkisian, as he is a signal-caller with refined throwing mechanics and mobility that allows him to extend plays when the pocket collapses.

His rise on the radar of major college programs was meteoric. After his visit to Junior Day at the Forty Acres, Knutson went from being a local option to receiving offers from programs such as Oklahoma State, Texas A&M, TCU, and South Carolina.

On the technical side, the defense is also receiving premium reinforcements. Under the guidance of Will Muschamp, Texas has added Garrett Cox as a senior defensive analyst. Cox, recruited directly from the Georgia Bulldogs, brings two decades of tactical experience that will be key in polishing a defensive unit aiming to dominate the SEC. With these moves, Texas is not only managing the departure of players like CJ Baxter, but also ensuring that its transition toward the absolute elite of college football is solid and competitive.

The team appears to have the tools to remain in contention not only with the Manning name, but also with its new addition, which promises more years of battles at the top.

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