The Texas Longhorns have secured a significant addition to their special teams with the commitment of Mason Shipley, a standout kicker transferring from Texas State. Shipley, who has one season of eligibility remaining, joins the Longhorns as a proven performer with a strong resume in the Sun Belt Conference.
Shipley’s decision to transfer comes after a remarkable 2024 campaign where he went 15-for-19 on field goals, including a record-breaking 60-yard field goal against Sam Houston State. This impressive kick set both a Texas State and Sun Belt Conference record for the longest successful field goal in a game. Known for his consistency and powerful leg, Shipley’s skill set makes him a valuable asset for Texas heading into the 2025 season.
Starting his collegiate career at Oklahoma State in 2020, Shipley found his stride at Texas State. During the 2023 season, he was named to the All-Sun Belt First Team and became a semifinalist for the prestigious Lou Groza Award, recognizing the nation’s top kicker. That year, he completed all 15 of his field goal attempts and missed only one of 59 PATs, solidifying his reputation as one of the most reliable kickers in college football.
The Longhorns prioritized Shipley after their three-year starting kicker, Bert Auburn, entered the transfer portal. Texas head coach Steve Sarkisian and special teams coordinator Jeff Banks identified Shipley as the ideal candidate to fill this critical position. His ability to deliver under pressure, combined with his exceptional range, will enhance Texas’s ability to capitalize on scoring opportunities in high-stakes situations.
For Shipley, the transition to Texas represents an opportunity to contribute to a program with national championship aspirations. The Longhorns are coming off a 13-3 season in which they reached the College Football Playoff semifinals. With Shipley’s talent, Texas’s special teams unit gains a reliable weapon capable of changing the momentum of games.
Meanwhile, Texas State bids farewell to one of its brightest stars. Under head coach G.J. Kinne, the Bobcats have achieved consecutive 8-5 seasons and back-to-back First Responder Bowl victories. Shipley’s departure marks the end of an era for the program, but his contributions have left a lasting legacy.
As Shipley dons the burnt orange and white, Texas fans can look forward to seeing his record-setting leg in action. “Welcome to Texas, Mason! Here’s to many sweet victories ahead—one kick at a time!”
