Texas could be getting an unexpected offensive-line boost just days before preseason camp, but the Longhorns still have to wait on the courtroom before making real plans.
Former Texas interior lineman Cole Hutson has already secured a temporary restraining order allowing him to resume football activity while he challenges the NCAA’s age-based eligibility rules. The next major step arrives Monday, August 3, when a judge is scheduled to consider his request for a preliminary injunction that could clear the way for a 2026 season.
What’s known: Hutson played 48 games and made 23 starts at center and guard during his Texas career. He went undrafted, attended rookie minicamps with NFL teams, and remains connected to the Longhorns while pursuing another season of eligibility.
What’s reported: Texas is monitoring the situation, and Steve Sarkisian has acknowledged that Hutson’s return would be valuable. The interior line already has projected starters, but Hutson’s experience could create immediate competition, emergency depth, and another veteran option for a team with serious playoff ambitions.
The speculation is where it gets spicy. If the injunction is granted, Hutson could walk into camp as a surprise addition and potentially push for snaps at guard or center. He has missed spring and much of the offseason buildup, so starting immediately is far from guaranteed. Still, one favorable ruling could turn Texas’ offensive-line outlook from settled to wide open overnight.