AUSTIN, Texas — Ranking the top 22 players on a talented 2024 Texas roster can be like parents having to pick their favorite child. 

These rankings are based on the talent, play-making and leadership qualities of the player at his position as well as the player’s importance to the team based on if there are others on the roster who can do what they do at the level they do it.

We started the countdown at No. 22 and are working all the way to No. 1.

So, let’s continue our look at Texas’ Top 22 as the Longhorns prepare to play their first season in the SEC with a non-conference game on Sept. 7 at defending national champion Michigan.

No. 17 – S Derek Williams, 6-2, 193, sophomore