Texas’ loss to Washington came with some criticism about the Longhorns’ inability to get home on Michael Penix Jr. from the edge spots. But Texas could be better at those spots in 2024, thanks in large part to a transfer portal coup in bringing in UTSA’s Trey Moore.

Moore isn’t the only edge player the Longhorns are adding to a group that has some experience, including multiple talented incoming freshman. But with his proven experience at the college level, Moore represents the most likely upgrade.

“The transfer I would plant my flag on moving up from G5 to P5 and having the most success is edge (#1) Trey Moore without a doubt,” posted Clint Brewster, 247Sports prospect evaluator.

Moore ranks as the No. 4 edge player and No. 20 in the transfer portal. It’s a ranking he earned with two huge seasons at UTSA. In 2022, he broke out with 59 tackles, a Conference USA-leading 18.0 tackles for loss and 8.0 sacks. Moore played in two games fewer this year, but had 45 tackles, 17.5 tackles for loss and 14.0 sacks, even picking off a pass. Moore’s tackles for loss and sacks both led the AAC*, with Moore earning AAC Defensive Player of the Year honors.

*UTSA moved from Conference USA to the AAC in the offseason.

“Easily one of the most explosive edge players in the portal,” Brewster said. “Play after play on tape he’s able to beat blockers to the spot and close on the ball carrier. Ball awareness and knowing where plays are going is top notch. He can handle off-ball duties in space and drop into coverage or come off the edge with 13 sacks last season. He’s been one of my favorite players to watch in the transfer portal with the way he can effect the game and dominate. Absolutely dynamic player, with instincts, strength, and acceleration to the ball. Moore isn’t the biggest or rangiest defender but he uses low of center of gravity to gain leverage and change direction. I think he makes a huge impact next season in the SEC.”

Moore is one of eight signees in Texas’ transfer class, one that ranks seventh nationally, despite not being nearly as big as other transfer classes.

Those transfers are split in half, with four of those transfers coming in on offense, where Texas is looking to replace several wideouts and tight end Ja’Tavion Sanders, and four on defense. Those defensive players are spread over the different levels, with Moore and defensive lineman Tiaoalii Savea on the line, Kendrick Blackshire joining the linebackers and Andrew Mukuba helping to upgrade the safety spot.

Wide receiver Isaiah Bond, Moore and Mukuba all rank among the top 26 transfer prospects in the class.