The Texas Longhorns are looking to further strengthen an already talented roster as they prepare for the 2025 season. On Friday, they made a significant move in that direction by securing a commitment from Utah punter Jack Bouwmeester, one of the top 10 punters in the transfer portal. This marks the beginning of the Longhorns’ efforts to add impactful players who can help elevate the team even more in the coming seasons.
True freshman Michael Kern has served as Texas’ primary punter this season. While Kern has shown promise, it’s clear that head coach Steve Sarkisian and his staff are aiming to bolster the punting game with more experience and consistency. Bouwmeester, with his proven track record, offers exactly what the Longhorns need.
Bouwmeester has been a standout performer at Utah, earning First Team All-Pac-12 honors in 2023. This season, he was also named to the 2024 Big 12 Second Team, further cementing his reputation as one of the best at his position. A native of Bendigo, Australia, Bouwmeester’s journey to success has been anything but conventional.
He began his collegiate career at Michigan State in 2019 but saw limited action. However, after transferring to Utah, Bouwmeester flourished, becoming one of the premier punters in the country. Over the course of his three seasons with the Utes, he played in all 39 games and delivered 154 punts for 6,711 yards, with a long of 64 yards.
His consistency and precision were evident, as he registered just nine touchbacks and placed 60 punts inside the 20-yard line. Moreover, he has never had a punt blocked, a testament to his reliability and skill.
For Texas, the addition of Bouwmeester provides the team with a seasoned veteran who can contribute immediately, strengthening an area that is critical for field position. Although Kern has had a solid season, punting 31 times for 1,255 yards with a long of 52 yards, the Longhorns’ decision to pursue Bouwmeester reflects their commitment to ensuring every position is as strong as possible ahead of the 2025 season.
Looking ahead, Texas has a huge challenge in front of them as they prepare to face No. 12 Clemson in the College Football Playoff on Dec. 21. With a revamped roster and the addition of key players like Bouwmeester, the Longhorns are poised to make a deep run into the postseason, setting the stage for a promising future in 2025 and beyond.