Cole Hutson has regained a temporary injunction allowing him to pursue playing time for Texas this season, following a decision in Austin’s 53rd District Court by Judge Maria Cantu Hexel. The ruling removes the immediate eligibility barrier that had kept the veteran offensive lineman from playing.
Texas coach Steve Sarkisian said Sept. 7 that Hutson was unable to participate because of an NCAA-related matter separate from the ruling. Hutson had returned to the team during fall camp, but his eligibility status remained unresolved.
The timing of the court decision leaves Hutson’s availability for Texas’ SEC opener against Tennessee in Knoxville on Saturday uncertain. Sarkisian is scheduled to meet with local media on Thursday and could provide more information. It is also not yet clear when Hutson will first play.
Texas has received steady production at both guard positions even without Hutson. Oregon State transfer Dylan Sikorski has taken the starting left guard role, despite expectations during fall camp that Western Kentucky transfer Laurence Seymore would win the position.
Quarterback Arch Manning and guard Brandon Baker previously discussed Hutson’s return. Manning said he was surprised to see Hutson back and welcomed him with a hug, while Baker described Hutson as a strong presence in the locker room and a team leader who had looked good during camp.
