Texas begins rebuilding project in private

AUSTIN, Texas (AP) - Texas coach Mack Brown is keeping his rebuilding project private - for now.

The Longhorns began spring practice Thursday with five new assistant coaches after last season's disastrous 5-7 finish. Brown is keeping all of spring drills closed to the public and media until the annual team scrimmage on April 3.

Brown has closed most of his team practices for several years, but said he decided to close them all this year because he doesn't want any distractions for himself, his players and his staff.

Brown has said all positions are open after Texas had its first losing record in 13 years.

Texas has cleared senior tight end Blaine Irby to practice. Irby missed most of the last three seasons with a severe knee injury.