The Texas Longhorns are not waiting for uncertainty to define the next phase of Arch Manning‘s career, quietly fortifying the offensive line with a proven transfer who could play a central role in the program’s push toward national relevance.
Texas confirmed the addition of Wake Forest transfer Melvin Siani, a move that immediately strengthens a position group that showed vulnerability during stretches of last season.
The timing raised eyebrows around the sport, as Siani entered the transfer portal and finalized his commitment within hours, signaling how aggressively head coach Steve Sarkisian and his staff targeted the veteran tackle.
Siani arrives with an impressive résumé. He started all 13 games at left tackle for Wake Forest and surrendered zero sacks while logging nearly 900 snaps, according to team tracking data.
The 6 foot 6 lineman began his career at Temple before transferring to the ACC, where he quickly established himself as one of the Demon Deacons‘ most reliable blockers.
His blend of size, footwork, and consistency fits seamlessly into Texas‘ desire to stabilize protection for Manning while maintaining flexibility along the front.
The addition comes as the Longhorns continue reshaping their roster through the portal, adding skill players, defensive depth, and special teams contributors in a deliberate effort to accelerate competitiveness rather than rebuild patiently.
How the move reshapes Texas’ offensive outlook
Last season exposed how thin the margin can be when injuries and inconsistency strike the offensive line. Texas struggled at times to sustain rhythm, forcing adjustments that limited the offense’s ceiling.
Siani offers immediate insurance and legitimate starting potential, giving Sarkisian and offensive line coach Kyle Flood options they simply did not have a year ago.
There is also a longer view. Several veterans along the line could be NFL bound within the next two seasons, making continuity a looming challenge.
Siani‘s experience and durability allow Texas to bridge that gap without sacrificing performance, while younger linemen continue to develop behind him.
The move does not signal the end of Texas‘ portal ambitions up front. Colorado transfer Jordan Seaton remains the most coveted lineman available, and the Longhorns are scheduled to host him on a visit.
Oregon is also firmly in the mix, setting up a high stakes recruiting battle that could further elevate Texas‘ trench depth. Even without Seaton, the Longhorns have quietly assembled a deeper, more versatile unit with Siani and other recent additions.
Texas‘ aggressive approach also reflects the modern NIL environment, where top programs are increasingly willing to invest heavily in immediate upgrades.
The Longhorns now sit near the top of combined recruiting and transfer rankings, a position that reinforces their intent to compete not only in the SEC but on the national stage.
With upgraded blocking, a refreshed skill group, and continuity within the coaching staff, Texas enters the upcoming season positioned to convert potential into production.
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