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AUSTIN, Texas -- Before Texas can go about adding new names to the roster Wednesday, the Longhorns had to scrub one of the existing names off.

Calvin Howell, a sophomore defensive tackle, has decided to transfer, a source within the program told HornsNation. Howell was projected to contend for a starting spot in 2012 along with Ashton Dorsey, Chris Whaley, Brandon Moore and Desmond Jackson.

Howell started seven games in 2011 and played in all 13 games. The 6-4, 290-pound sophomore had 16 tackles, one tackle for loss, one sack, one caused fumble, one fumble recovery and three pressures.

It is not yet known where Howell will transfer. He joins a long list of players who have left the program since August including Garrett Gilbert, Connor Wood, Darius White, Traylon Shead and Chris Jones.

But Howell's situation is slightly different. While all of the other players left due to playing time, Howell was playing, a lot. He played in 27 games at Texas, starting the aforementioned seven.

Texas is in a position to absorb the loss of Howell because defensive tackle might be the deepest position on the field.

Texas brought in Brandon Moore from junior college to fill the tackle spot left open by the departure of Kheeston Randall.

Whaley, who has moved from running back to end to tackle since he signed in 2009, is expected to be a force at defensive tackle. Dorsey started four games in 2011. Jackson is the strongest of the bunch and played in every game as a true freshman.

Then there is incoming recruit Malcom Brown (Brenham, Texas/Brenham). Brown is rated the No. 2 tackle in the country by ESPNU. He is expected to come in and contend for playing time as a true freshman.

William Wilkerson covers University of Texas football and recruiting for HornsNation.
Follow HornsNation's coverage on Twitter: @ESPNHornsNation

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William Wilkerson | email

Reporter, HornsNation

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• Reporter for HornsNation
• Covers Texas Longhorns sports and recruiting
• Joined ESPN in 2011