Three Longhorns selected to Walter Camp Preseason All-America Teams
Although the college football season hasn't started, a trio of Longhorns are already making headlines. On Tuesday, linebacker Anthony Hill Jr., EDGE Colin Simmons, and defensive back Michael Taaffe were named to Walter Camp's Preseason All-America Teams. Hill and Simmons each landed on the First Team, while Taaffe was on the Second Team.
For the Longhorns stars, their latest honor comes as no surprise. All three served as vital pieces to the Longhorns' success last year. With another year of experience under their belts, they will once again be relied on to help Texas ends it's title drought.
This is the second straight year Hill has received Walter Camp's Preseason All-American honors. During the 2024 campaign, he led the team in tackles with 104. He also forced four fumbles and finished third on the team in sacks with eight. As the Texas native frustrated offensive coordinators, he added multiple Player of the Week honors to his trophy case.
While Hill was a reliable veteran presence, he got help from Simmons, who was a human highlight reel. The talented EDGE led the team in sacks with nine and ranked second in quarterback hurries with 14. He also led all freshmen in total sacks. Due to his play, Simmons won the Shaun Alexander National Freshman of the Year Award.
It's just down right fun watching Michael Taaffe communicate and move people into the right position.If you weren't told, you probably would assume he was recruited on a scholarship. pic.twitter.com/9DkPAZGzPQ
Rounding out the list is a player Texas fans have become familiar with in Taaffe. The former walk-on started every game last season and recorded 78 tackles. He also added two interceptions and ten pass break-ups to his resume. During his Longhorns career, Taaffe has appeared in 43 games and made 26 starts.
The Walter Camp teams are revealed in December and chosen by FBS head coaches and sports information directors.
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