Breaking News: Texas Longhorns Defensive Tackle, Enters Transfer Portal
Texas Longhorns defensive tackle Sydir Mitchell has entered the NCAA Transfer Portal for the second time this offseason, according to reports from On3’s Pete Nakos. This marks a significant development in Mitchell’s career, following a rollercoaster series of decisions about his future with the Longhorns.
Initially, after Texas’ SEC Championship loss to Georgia, Mitchell had expressed his intent to enter the transfer portal. However, just a few days later, news broke from Horns247 that Mitchell had reversed his decision and opted to remain with the program. Despite this apparent change of heart, Mitchell’s situation has once again shifted, and he has now officially decided to seek new opportunities elsewhere. At 6-foot-5 and weighing 335 pounds, Mitchell’s decision to enter the portal leaves Texas with one fewer option on its defensive line.
Mitchell’s move to the transfer portal makes him the ninth player from the Longhorns to do so this offseason. He is also the fourth defensive lineman to enter the portal, joining Tia Savea, Jaray Bledsoe, and Aaron Bryant. The high turnover on the defensive line highlights the changing dynamics for Texas as the team prepares for future seasons.
Mitchell’s path to Texas was marked by high expectations, as he was a consensus four-star recruit before committing to the Longhorns in July 2022. He received offers from notable programs such as Michigan, Ole Miss, and Tennessee, but ultimately chose to play for Texas. In his first season, Mitchell redshirted, appearing in just four games: the season opener against Rice, Wyoming, Kansas, and the Big 12 Championship game against Oklahoma State. During those appearances, he recorded three tackles in 17 snaps. In his second season, as a redshirt freshman in 2024, Mitchell played 36 snaps, recording two tackles and two defensive stops.
Mitchell’s time at Texas was also marked by a sideline accident during the Louisiana-Monroe game, followed by an incident after the Texas A&M game in which he distanced himself from the team while celebrating. Despite the setbacks, Mitchell’s decision to enter the portal again signals his search for a fresh start at a new program.