Lubbock, Texas, January 5, 2026
Texas Tech University enhances its football program by securing Austin Romaine, a former Kansas State linebacker, as their first commitment from the transfer portal for the upcoming season. Romaine, who stands at 6-foot-2 and weighs 245 pounds, brings impressive stats, including 184 total tackles and 17.5 tackles for loss. His experience aims to fill the gap left by Dick Butkus Award winner Jacob Rodriguez, as the Red Raiders look to bolster their linebacker corps ahead of the new season.
Texas Tech Football Strengthens Defense with Austin Romaine
Former Kansas State Linebacker Joins Red Raiders for 2026 Season
Lubbock, Texas – Texas Tech University has taken a significant step in enhancing its football program by securing its first commitment from the transfer portal for the 2026 season. Former Kansas State linebacker Austin Romaine, a promising player standing at 6-foot-2 and weighing 245 pounds, officially announced his decision to join the Red Raiders on January 4, 2026.
Romaine hails from Hillsboro, Missouri, and has made a substantial impact during his time at Kansas State, accumulating impressive statistics that include 184 total tackles, 17.5 tackles for loss, and 3.5 sacks over 34 games. His last season saw him leading his team with 66 tackles before suffering a season-ending injury in Week 10 against Texas Tech. With this addition, Texas Tech aims to bolster its already formidable defense and fill the critical void left by Dick Butkus Award winner Jacob Rodriguez.
Strengthening the Linebacker Corps
The transfer portal has emerged as a vital resource for collegiate football teams to refine their rosters, and Romaine’s commitment is a testament to Texas Tech’s determination to strengthen its defensive lineup. As the Red Raiders prepare for the upcoming season, they will look to maximize their defensive strategies by integrating Romaine into a linebacker group that also includes seasoned players Ben Roberts and John Curry.
Romaine’s Impact on Texas Tech
Adding Romaine to the roster not only addresses the vacancy left by Rodriguez but also enhances the team’s overall defensive capabilities. His track record showcases resilience and performance level academic institutions seek in athletes. Having a player of his caliber helps ensure that Texas Tech remains competitive within the Big 12 Conference, where strong defensive play is crucial.
What the Future Holds
As Texas Tech gears up for the 2026 season, fans and analysts alike are optimistic about the integration of Romaine into their defensive schemes. Transitioning into a new school can often present challenges for athletes, but Romaine’s experience and performance history suggest a beneficial adjustment period ahead, potentially translating into immediate impacts on the field.
FAQs on Austin Romaine’s Transfer
Who is Austin Romaine?
Austin Romaine is a 6-foot-2, 245-pound linebacker from Hillsboro, Missouri, who played three seasons at Kansas State University before transferring to Texas Tech University in January 2026.
What were Romaine’s statistics at Kansas State?
Over 34 games at Kansas State, Romaine recorded 184 total tackles, 17.5 tackles for loss, 3.5 sacks, one interception, four passes defended, a fumble recovery, and three forced fumbles. In the 2025 season, he led the team with 66 tackles before a season-ending injury in Week 10 against Texas Tech.
Why is Romaine’s transfer significant for Texas Tech?
Romaine’s transfer is significant for Texas Tech as it fills the void left by the departure of Dick Butkus Award winner Jacob Rodriguez. His addition strengthens the Red Raiders’ linebacker corps, pairing him with Ben Roberts and John Curry to form a formidable trio in the upcoming season.
Key Features of Austin Romaine’s Transfer
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Player | Austin Romaine |
| Position | Linebacker |
| Height | 6 feet 2 inches |
| Weight | 245 pounds |
| Previous School | Kansas State University |
| New School | Texas Tech University |
| Commitment Date | January 4, 2026 |
| Career Stats at Kansas State | 184 total tackles, 17.5 tackles for loss, 3.5 sacks, 1 interception, 4 passes defended, 1 fumble recovery, 3 forced fumbles |
| 2025 Season Stats | 66 tackles before season-ending injury in Week 10 against Texas Tech |
| Impact on Texas Tech | Strengthens linebacker corps alongside Ben Roberts and John Curry, filling the void left by Jacob Rodriguez |
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