98 Days Until Kickoff: Who’s your favorite and who was the best No. 98?

[Blake Munroe]

As we continue the countdown to the 2026 Texas football season, today’s spotlight falls on one of the premier defensive line numbers in Longhorn history: No. 98.

1. Brian Orakpo (2005-08)

Few defensive players in Texas history can match what Brian Orakpo accomplished in burnt orange.

The Houston native capped his career with one of the greatest individual seasons ever by a Longhorn defender in 2008, earning unanimous All-American honors while sweeping some of college football’s most prestigious awards. Orakpo won the Nagurski Trophy, Lombardi Award and Ted Hendricks Award while also being named Big 12 Defensive Player of the Year.

He finished his Texas career with 132 tackles, 38 tackles for loss and 22 sacks and was a member of the 2005 national championship team.

When discussing the greatest defensive ends in school history, Orakpo’s name is always near the top of the list.

2. Tony Brackens (1992-95)

Before Orakpo, there was Tony Brackens.

One of the most dominant defensive players of the Southwest Conference era, Brackens earned Consensus All-American honors in 1995 and was a three-time First-Team All-SWC selection.

Brackens finished his Texas career with 24 sacks and played a major role in the Longhorns’ final Southwest Conference championship. His combination of power, athleticism and production helped launch a lengthy NFL career with the Jacksonville Jaguars, where he became one of the franchise’s all-time great defenders.

He remains one of the most underrated stars in Texas football history.

3. Moro Ojomo (2018-22)

Moro Ojomo may not have the trophy case of Orakpo or Brackens, but he did have an impact  

A five-year Longhorn who appeared in 50 career games, Ojomo became a key leader during Texas’ climb back into national contention under Steve Sarkisian. His leadership, toughness and steady play helped lay the foundation for the program’s resurgence.

Ojomo was a multi-year starter, helped Texas win the 2022 Alamo Bowl and was part of the roster that launched the Longhorns back into the College Football Playoff era before moving on to the NFL.

 

No. 98 has been home to some outstanding defensive linemen over the years.

Now it’s your turn: Who is the greatest Longhorn to ever wear No. 98? Who is your favorite?

[Blake Munroe]

 

[Blake Munroe]

 

[Joe Zura]

Another great graphic by Matthew 

[Hank South]

Brian Orakpo will always be my favorite No. 98. 

 

[Quinncent McManning, Jr.]

Brackens was great, though Osackpo was the best 

[PaulieD]

17 minutes ago, Blake Munroe said:

 

This hit (although it would probably be flagged today) was the devastating tackle that I've seen.  Absolutely crushed the guy, and that poor kicker didn't know what county he was in.