Texas Longhorns release linebacker Ty’Anthony Smith ahead of 2026 season
The roster move follows the appointment of Will Muschamp as defensive coordinator and the signing of four transfer linebackers.
The University of Texas football program has parted ways with linebacker Ty’Anthony Smith, who was entering his junior season. The news was first reported by Anwar Richardson of Orangebloods, indicating a significant shift in the personnel strategy for the upcoming campaign.
Smith, a three-star recruit from the 2024 class, played in 28 games over his first two seasons with the Longhorns. As a true freshman in 2024, he appeared in all 16 games, recording 16 tackles, 1.5 tackles for loss, one interception, and a pass breakup. His production increased in 2025, where he made one start and finished the year with 60 tackles, 5.5 tackles for loss, 2.0 sacks, two interceptions, three pass breakups, and two forced fumbles.
The decision to release Smith comes as the Longhorns overhaul their defensive scheme under new defensive coordinator Will Muschamp. Muschamp is seeking different attributes at the linebacker position, which has placed Smith in a competitive battle for playing time. To bolster the unit, Texas added four transfer linebackers during the offseason: Rasheem Biles from Pittsburgh, Justin Cryer from Florida State, Markus Boswell from Akron, and Darius Snow from Michigan State.
Despite the reported dismissal, sources noted that Smith’s practice participation had been fluid over the previous weeks, leaving open the possibility of another change in direction. The specific reason for the release was attributed to the battle for playing time under the new defensive scheme, although no official statement from the university was cited in the initial reporting.
The Longhorns are scheduled to open the 2026 season against the Texas State Bobcats on Saturday, 5 September. The match is set to begin at 2:30 p.m. Central Time and will be broadcast on ESPN.
