The hiring of Chad Scott as the new running backs coach at Texas has sparked speculation about the possible involvement of his long-time collaborator, Neal Brown. The two have a history that spans multiple institutions and decades, starting from their playing days at Kentucky under Hal Mumme in 2000. Their professional relationship continued through various stops, including Troy, Texas Tech, and most recently West Virginia, where they worked closely together until Brown's departure after the 2024 season. Now, with Scott on board, reports suggest that Brown could be joining the Longhorns in an analyst role.

Brown's extensive experience as both a head coach and offensive coordinator makes him a valuable asset to any program. His ability to oversee and strategize can significantly benefit Texas, especially in areas like player development and game planning. While head coaches may not always succeed in their top roles, their insights into program management are often invaluable. Eric Nahlin, for instance, highlighted how Brown’s expertise in oversight could enhance Texas' operations. Similar to Nick Saban's approach at Alabama, leveraging experienced analysts can provide fresh perspectives and cultivate future talent within the program.

Brown's coaching philosophy emphasizes a balanced approach, focusing on strong running games and solid defensive play. Despite being associated with the Air Raid offense, his teams consistently excelled in ground attacks and defense. At West Virginia, he recruited effectively, particularly along the defensive line and offensive line, developing players with discipline and toughness. This skill set would be highly beneficial to Texas, especially in recruiting linemen from the South, where the Longhorns aim to find promising three-star prospects. Moreover, Brown’s experience could help identify potential transfers who could strengthen the roster during the spring portal window.

Adding Neal Brown to the Texas staff would subtly yet significantly bolster the team's capabilities. His proven track record as a head coach and his strategic acumen make him an ideal candidate to offer valuable insights and support. Even if his contributions remain behind the scenes, his presence could enhance Texas' overall performance and readiness for the challenges ahead. Ultimately, this addition underscores a commitment to building a well-rounded and competitive program, positioning Texas for success in the coming seasons.