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Steve Sarkisian, who has mentored NFL-caliber wide receivers like Jerry Jeudy and DeVonta Smith, has placed his trust in a 19-year-old newcomer, Cam Coleman, who is already stealing attention from star quarterback Arch Manning.
Coleman, a $3 million transfer, impressed on the first day of spring practice on March 9 and the Texas Longhorns boss did not hold back, telling reporters immediately that Coleman's work ethic, demeanor, and coachability set him apart from the rest of the roster.
"I think the skill set kind of speaks for itself," Sarkisian said. "But I think it's the work ethic, the demeanor, his willingness to be coachable, the effort he exudes."
Coleman drew attention not only for talent but also for his dedication and focus on the field as a clip shared by Evan Vieth on X captured Sarkisian personally working with the youngster, running him through a route out of the slot, demonstrating the hands-on attention the coach is giving.
Coleman also finished near the front of the pack during half gassers the Friday before spring practice, according to the Austin American-Statesman. His conditioning and speed suggest that he is ready to contribute immediately, sending a message to the team about effort and preparation.
"When your best players are your best practice players, they send a great message to the rest of the team," Sarkisian said. "I think Cam has done that." His ability to consistently excel in practice shows why Coleman is turning heads early this offseason.
Texas' passing offense dropped from 14th nationally in 2024 to 44th last season, leaving Sarkisian eager to find the missing piece. Coleman appears to be that addition, someone who can elevate the downfield passing game and provide a spark for the Longhorns' aerial attack.
"There's something to be said about the ability to adjust to the ball," Sarkisian said. "It's almost like rebounding a basketball, and he has a natural ability to do that." Coleman's route running and hands have already drawn praise from the coaching staff.
Coleman has not yet taken an official snap for Texas, but his performance in drills and gassers suggests he is already leading by example.
Manning sidelined through injury: What do we know?
Arch Manning sat out Monday's open portion of practice while recovering from January foot surgery. Despite Manning's absence, Coleman caught every pass thrown his way by backup quarterbacks KJ Lacey and Dia Bell, demonstrating poise and consistency under pressure
Texas announced that Manning's January foot surgery was minor and preventative. "Arch Manning underwent minor foot surgery this week as a preventative measure to address a previous injury," the school said. "He will be limited during off-season workouts but is expected back during spring football."
Manning, who entered 2024 as a Heisman favorite, struggled early but rebounded in the second half, finishing with 62.3% completions for 1,714 yards, 14 touchdowns, two interceptions, and 206 rushing yards with five touchdowns, setting high expectations for 2026.
Texas now has the third-best odds to win the national championship (+700), tied with Indiana, and Manning (+800) is tied atop the Heisman odds with Notre Dame's C.J. Carr. Coleman's emergence adds intrigue, as fans and analysts wonder how he will impact the passing game.
Several other Texas players have had offseason surgeries but are expected to return, including Xavier Filsaime, Trevor Goosby, Emmett Mosley V, Ty'Anthony Smith, and Ryan Wingo.
Coleman's rise gives the Longhorns a new weapon alongside these returning stars whilst his work ethic, skill, and immediate impact on spring practice suggest he could redefine Texas' offense.