Texas Longhorns Make Unexpected Spring Game Announcement

The Texas Longhorns are in the middle of their spring practice program as the team gets set for the 2026 season.

The multi-week program is set to end with the Orange-White Spring Game on Saturday, April 18, a notable event for fans considering that Texas chose not host the game last offseason. Texas athletic director Chris Del Conte had announced the news during the annual Texas Town Hall in January, giving fans something major to look forward to.

However, things appear to have changed. Texas football made a somewhat surprising announcement on Monday, indicating that the typical spring game format will not be taking place. Instead, the Longhorns have other plans to give fans a chance to see the 2026 squad in person for the first time.

Texas Football Announces Open Practice in Place of Spring Game

Texas Longhorns quarterback Arch Manning warms up before a game against the Texas A&M Aggies at Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium. | Scott Wachter-Imagn Images

Texas football announced that instead of a spring game on April 18, the team will hold an "open practice" at 11 a.m. CT at DKR.

This news is a bit dissapointing for Texas fans. Instead of getting to see the unofficial debut of new players like wide receiver Cam Coleman and linebacker Rasheem Biles in a game-like setting, practice reps will be all that fans will get to see, barring any other last-minute changes.

Fortunately, the entire event is free admission for all fans.

Here is what the new schedule looks like for Saturday, April 18:

9:30 a.m. - Football Fan Day Street Fest opens

10 a.m. - Gates open at DKR

11 a.m. - Open Practice

Post-practice - 1-hour autograph session begins

Post-practice - fans can take photos with Coach Sark, Texas Cheer, Texas Pom, and Hook'Em

Why Texas Longhorns Likely Chose to Hold Open Practice Instead

Texas Longhorns head coach Steve Sarkisian looks on during warm ups prior to the game against the Mississippi State Bulldogs at Davis Wade Stadium at Scott Field. | Petre Thomas-Imagn Images

The Longhorns have been dealing with some notable injuries during practice, including quarterback Arch Manning (foot) and offensive tackle Trevor Goosby (shoulder), who are both recovering from offseason surgery.

Texas also lost wide receiver Kaliq Lockett for the rest of spring practice due to injury. These are just a few of the injuries that the team is dealing with, so it's likely Steve Sarkisian and the coaching staff decided not to hold the typical spring game format in order to avoid any more ailments to the roster.

Though the open practice will still give fans a look at what the 2026 Longhorns look like, there won't be stats and a final score to look forward to.

Texas will open up the 2026 season against Texas State at home on Sept. 5.

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