The post-spring round of attrition continues, as another former DeSoto Eagle has opted to leave the Texas program:
UT announces DB A.J. White will transfer.White played in 17 games during his two seasons with the Longhorns, recording nine tackles.
— Mike Berman (@MikeBermanYNN) April 27, 2012
White's departure comes 10 days after former high school teammate Darius Terrell, a sophomore H-back, also announced his transfer, along with another Metroplex product, defensive back Eryon Barnett.
Though the loss of Terrell put a serious dent in depth at his position, losing White will have little, if any, impact on the depth chart at defensive back, other than perhaps giving 2012 signee Bryson Echols a few more reps when fall practice rolls around.
White received the kiss of death for a veteran player when he was passed on the depth chart last fall by players like Josh Turner and Quandre Diggs. As such, his departure has been likely for more than a year and was virtually set in stone this spring when early enrollee Duke Thomas received more buzz.
An Under Armour All-American who was the top target at his position in the 2010 class, White always had the physical tools to succeed, but notably struggled against Mike Davis in high school, getting torched two straight seasons, and was never able to translate that potential into production on the field.
White represents yet another bust in a 2010 class that was billed as potentially one of the best in the history of the program. Even at the time, it was clear that the group would have to achieve success on the field in order to eventually receive that lofty billing, defined by winning a national championship or two.
If the 'Horns do indeed win a title while members of that class are still on campus, it won't have as much to do with those players as appeared likely just two short years ago.
How quickly the narrative changes.
Here's the statement from White, released through the school:
I decided to transfer because I felt like I needed toget a new start. I want to give thanks to Coach (Duane) Akina and Coach (Mack) Brown for everything they've done for me here. Texas is a great school and a great program, and I appreciate everyone in the program and the time I've had here, but I just felt like I needed a change and a fresh start.
Best of luck to White in the future.