Texas OG Tope Imade reportedly transitioning to DT

Following a redshirt freshman season in 2016, Texas Longhorns offensive guard Tope Imade will be making the transition from the offensive line to defensive tackle for the 2017 season, according to multiple reports.

A former three-star offensive tackle prospect, Imade previously transitioned one spot inside from tackle to guard, but the ‘Horns appear to be set there with Patrick Vahe and Jake McMillion, while also having depth in the form of Patrick Hudson, Elijah Rodriguez and Alex Anderson.

The defensive line, on the other hand, doesn’t enjoy the same luxury after the offseason departures of Jordan Elliott and Marcel Southall.

This attrition, along with a two-deep already in place on the offensive line, opened the door for Imade to make the transition to the other side of the ball.

Rather than likely spending his second season on the Forty Acres as a spectator, Imade will be adding depth and size to a position of need, largely made possible by an improved physique, per Horns247.

“The source who confirmed the move to Horns247 said Imade is down to 23 percent body fat and tips the scales right at 300 pounds.”

Imade arrived on the Forty Acres as a 2016 signee at 327 pounds.

Now on the defensive line, Imade will compete with Poona Ford, D’Andre Christmas-Giles, Chris Daniels and Gerald Wilbon for reps in the trenches.