As some of the highest spenders in college football, the Texas Longhorns consistently have taken advantage of the NIL era over the last few years with top-tier rosters and notable retention of key players. Despite head coach Steve Sarkisian's comments regarding the NIL era and its cost to the game of college football, the Longhorns still prioritize staying ahead of the curve when it comes to using NIL to their advantage. Here are three ways that NIL is affecting the Texas football program in 2026. 1. Pulling In An Immediate Impact Transfer Portal Class Auburn Tigers wide receiver Cam Coleman (8) catches a pass as Auburn Tigers take on Alabama Crimson Tide in the Iron Bowl at Jordan-Hare Stadium in Auburn, Ala. on Saturday, Nov. 29, 2025. Alabama Crimson Tide defeated Auburn Tigers 27-20.…