Defensive tackle Derek Johnson is a big dude. Can he play as good as he looks? (Image: MBTF)

After nearly two whole months without Texas football, Friday was finally the first day of Spring practice. No tidbits yet (practices are closed to the public) but the official site does have a short video to watch and a nice photo gallery as well.

Terrible luck for the kid and of course for the tight end depth chart. We wish him a full and speedy recovery.

Update: It’s official, he’s out for the year due to “damage to multiple ligaments in his left knee.” Quotes from Mack below:

“We’re disappointed for D.J.,” said Mack Brown. “He’s worked really hard and was ready to compete for playing time this season. We’ll miss having him out on the field but we will be there to support him throughout his rehab. Fortunately we’ll still have him around learning the position and helping the team at practices and meetings. He’s a great kid and we know he’ll get healthy, work hard in his rehabilitation and has a bright future.”

QB Colt McCoy passes to RB Fozzy Whittaker on the first day of practice. (Statesman.com)

Tell your family you love them and you’ll see them in January; Texas Longhorns football season is finally here. and the rest of his Longhorn teammates took to the practice field early this morning to officially kickoff the 2009 season.

The team split into to two groups allowing the coaches more time with the younger players only in the afternoon. Coach is a big fan of the split practices, “It was fun to watch the young guys live a dream of playing at Texas in their first practice tonight. I love the split practices. Everyone gets more reps and we’re only out there for an hour an 15 min. Got a great look at young ones tonight.” The team will do another split practice Monday before coming together as a full squad.

Check out photos and more links from the Horns’ first day of practice:

• Horns start preseason prep
• Muschamp revving up for Year 2
• Photos of move-in day
• Photos of first practice