Texas’ Colin Simmons holds nothing back about Will Muschamp difference in 2026

Texas junior edge rusher Colin Simmons believes the biggest strength of the Longhorns defense heading into the 2026 season is not its talent or depth. For the 20-year-old, the difference starts with defensive coordinator Will Muschamp and the standard he has set during fall camp.

“Defensive coordinator,” said Simmons when asked about Texas’ calling card.

Simmons described Muschamp as someone who consistently sets the tone in meetings and practices, bringing an aggressive approach that has stood out compared with what Simmons experienced previously.

“I feel like the coaches set the tone, and I feel like Muschamp comes in each and every day and sets the tone,” said Simmons. “He does a great job doing that.”

“This is my first year seeing this type of tone. Aggressive. You’re going to be one your feet. You’re going to be ten toes down, on your feet. Muschamp is going to make sure you know what you got before you leave that meeting,” he continued.

That preparation has changed how Simmons studies opposing offenses. He said Muschamp has pushed him to understand formations, coverages, defensive fronts, blitz decisions and how down-and-distance situations influence those calls. The goal is not simply knowing where to line up, but understanding why the Longhorns are making each defensive decision.

The change could also have a huge impact on Simmons statistically. He has already logged 91 tackles, six forced fumbles and 21 sacks during his first two seasons at Texas. Last season, he led the SEC with 12 sacks.

Simmons needs 14 sacks in 2026 to surpass Will Anderson Jr.’s SEC career record of 34.5 sacks. Anderson last reached at least 14 sacks in a season when he recorded 17.5 in 2021.

Simmons previously played under Pete Kwiatkoski, whose more cautious defensive approach allowed opponents easier access to quick throws. Muschamp’s system is built around more aggressive coverages that can take away those easier options for quarterbacks.

Muschamp also has a history of generating pressure in Austin. During his first run with the Longhorns from 2008-2010, Brian Orakpo and Sergio Kindle accumulated 11 and 10 sacks, respectively, in 2008.

For Simmons, Muschamp’s influence is already extending beyond individual pass-rushing numbers. He believes the coordinator has given Texas’ defense a clear identity built around preparation, aggression, physicality and understanding the purpose behind every call.

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