In 2021, Steve Sarkisian helped a wide receiver win the Heisman Trophy for the first time since 1991. Now, as the head coach of the Texas Longhorns, he may have found a clone of that Heisman winner in rising junior Xavier Worthy.
Former NFL GM Rick Spielman has compared Worthy to Philadelphia Eagles receiver DeVonta Smith, who won the prestigious award during his time at Alabama. Both receivers share comparable traits, such as their slim frames and impeccable hands.
Although Worthy is slightly bigger, standing at 6-1 and weighing 171 pounds, he is known for his physicality when working upfield in run-blocking sets. On the other hand, Smith, who stands at 6 feet and weighs 170 pounds, is renowned for his exceptional route-running abilities in the NFL.
When Sarkisian took over as Alabama's offensive coordinator, he prioritized building a consistent passing game. With Tua Tagovailoa departing for the pros, the Crimson Tide relied heavily on their aerial attack rather than deep shots down the sidelines.
Smith initially played second fiddle to Jaylen Waddle but emerged as a star when Waddle suffered a season-ending ankle injury. In the latter half of the season, Smith put up remarkable numbers, recording seven 100-plus yard performances and double-digit touchdowns in seven games.
Worthy, too, has shown flashes of brilliance. In his freshman year, he broke Roy Williams' touchdown record and won the Big 12 Newcomer of the Year award. Although his sophomore season was a bit regressive due to a lack of chemistry with quarterback Quinn Ewers and a hand injury, Worthy still showcased his potential.
With the buzz surrounding Worthy growing, it's no surprise that Texas, the preseason favorite to win the conference, is pinning their hopes on him. If Worthy can live up to his potential, he could become one of college football's most dynamic players.
According to Spielman, Worthy has the talent to be a first-round pick in the NFL draft next April, alongside other standout receivers like Ohio State's Emeka Egbuka, Marvin Harrison Jr., and Florida State's Johnny Wilson.
Despite the hype, Worthy remains focused on the present. While the NFL draft may be on the horizon, he is determined to make his future brighter by making an impact for the Longhorns this season.
