Breaking News: Texas Longhorns Player Suspended for 2025 Season
In a significant development for the Texas Longhorns football program, defensive lineman Vernon Broughton has been suspended for the first half of the upcoming 2025 season opener. This suspension follows a targeting penalty incurred during the latter part of the 2024 season.
The incident occurred in a game against the Vanderbilt Commodores on October 28, 2024, where Broughton was ejected after a late, high hit on quarterback Diego Pavia. This action nullified a potential game-sealing interception return by teammate Kobe Black. As a result, Broughton was mandated to sit out the first half of the subsequent game, which, due to scheduling, is the season opener for 2025.
Throughout the 2024 season, Broughton was a pivotal component of the Longhorns’ defensive lineup, recording 16 total tackles, one sack, a forced fumble, a fumble recovery, and a pass deflection over seven games. His absence in the initial half of the season opener presents a challenge for the Longhorns’ defense as they commence their 2025 campaign.
The Texas Longhorns are set to begin their 2025 season with a home game against the Florida Gators on November 9. The coaching staff is anticipated to adjust their defensive strategies to compensate for Broughton’s temporary absence, ensuring the team remains competitive during this period.
This suspension underscores the ongoing emphasis on player safety within college football, particularly concerning targeting penalties. The Longhorns will need to adapt swiftly to maintain their defensive strength in the forthcoming season.