Texas Recruiting Notes 2025: Duck Around and Find Out

Elmer_Fudd · February 26

Fat Ketch just forecasted Michael Fasusi, Kiotti Armstrong, Jordan Davison, Michael Riles, Riley Pettijohn, and Chad Woodfork all to Texas.

Also Andrew Marsh amd DJ Sanders to aggy.

SimkinsMan · February 26

16 minutes ago, Elmer_Fudd said:

Fat Ketch just forecasted Michael Fasusi, Kiotti Armstrong, Jordan Davison, Michael Riles, Riley Pettijohn, and Chad Woodfork all to Texas.

Also Andrew Marsh amd DJ Sanders to aggy.

Funk Doctor Spock · February 26

7 hours ago, Radical Larry said:

Gerry mentioned on coffee and football yesterday that he wasn't sure Texas would take an OOS WR

Getafix · February 26

The Stampede: Way-too-early 2025 class predictions
Another way-too-early prediction for the Longhorns recruiting haul in 2025.

HORNS247 STAFF

Spoiler

The Stampede: Way-too-early 2025 class predictions
Another way-too-early prediction for the Longhorns recruiting haul in 2025.

HORNS247 STAFF

Horns247 is back with another edition of The Stampede, Horns247’s weekly gathering of recruiting intel, and in this edition we're doing another way-too-early 2025 class prediction.

It's important to remember that we're still in the month of February and in todays age of College Football with NIL and the NCAA Transfer Portal, truly anything can happen between now and Early Signing Day.

That said, it's still way too early in the cycle for us to feel particularly amazing about every prospect on this list which brings up a great reminder that this series is more for fun than anything else at this point in time.

‌
For those curious, Hank was in charge of offense and Jordan was in charge of defense.

Without further ado, let's get into it.

QUARTERBACK

Saraland (Ala.) four-star KJ Lacey — Texas commit

Quarterback hasn’t been considered a position of need for Texas in quite a while. But with the expectation being Quinn Ewers will enter the NFL Draft next spring, that will leave just two scholarship quarterbacks on the roster in Arch Manning and Trey Owens. The Longhorns addressed this early, landing Lacey last summer. He’s been the foundation of the 2025 class thus far, Lacey’s reaffirmed his pledge to the Longhorns on numerous occasions, despite still taking visits to programs like Auburn, Alabama, and Ole Miss. Lacey is helping UT recruit and appears firm in his decision. He recently told Horns247’s Jordan Scruggs he’ll be in Austin twice this spring — once for the spring game and again prior to April 20. He also visited campus in January. So far, no other quarterbacks have emerged on the radar for Texas in 2025, which is another indicator as to how Texas views both Lacey as a prospect and his commitment status.

RUNNING BACK

Santa Ana (CA) Mater Dei four-star Jordon Davison

Tyler Chapel Hill three-star Rickey Stewart

Davison has been arguably running backs coach Tashard Choice’s top guy on the board since early in the process. That’s reflecting in his recruitment, too, as the elite ball carrier from the West Coast has trekked out to Austin a half dozen times, most recently with his family for Junior Day. With a national profile, programs like Alabama, Colorado, Ohio State, and others, are all in the picture. But sources close to the situation feel UT has set the pace in this one. There’s been debate in the past about who else could join the fold, particularly from within the state of Texas. Stewart has emerged as the most likely candidate to fill that void. Horns247’s Jordan Scruggs recently placed a Crystal Ball prediction in favor of the Longhorns. Stewart earned an offer from Texas at Junior Day, at the time committed to SMU. He’s since backed off that pledge to the Mustangs if that tells you anything.

WIDE RECEIVER

Duncanville five-star Dakorien Moore — LSU Commit

Santa Ana (CA) Mater Dei four-star Marcus Harris

Alamo Heights four-star Michael Terry III (ATH)

In wide receivers coach Chris Jackson’s first full cycle with the Longhorns, Texas landed undoubtedly the strongest wide receivers group in the country, factoring in both the high school and transfer ranks. Looking towards 2025, and the state of Texas is loaded at the position. And it could come down to first come, first serve with the amount of talent out there. The only exception to that is Moore, who’s currently committed to LSU. He’s obviously already made a decision, but the Longhorns are going to continue pressing to flip the Bayou Bengals pledge to the end. There’s been optimism at times as to Texas’ chances, speaking to sources. Texas has to keep getting him on campus and chipping away. Harris, like the aforementioned Davison, has been to Texas on a handful of occasions, and will return on April 18 as Horns247 reported over the weekend. A recruit with a national profile, plenty of programs across the country are in play for Harris, but Texas appears the best positioned, per sources. And we’ve felt that way really since last summer. We’ll continue to watch this one play out, but our pick is on the Longhorns. Last but not least, Terry earned an offer from Texas at Junior Day and the Longhorns immediately vaulted up his list. We’ll include him in the wide receiver group as an athlete. TCU and Texas A&M are also heavily in the picture, as is Nebraska where he recently set an official visit. We’re going with UT for now.

Footnotes: As noted, this wide receivers class could go in a few different directions, and could be dependent upon timing for some of these guys. Others like Andrew Marsh, Kaliq Lockett, Taz Williams Jr, Jaime Ffrench, etc., are all high on Texas’ radar and could find their way in this group in a later mock class edition based off when they make their decisions.

TIGHT END

Calhoun (GA) four-star Emaree Winston — Texas commit

Jasper four-star Kiotti Armstrong

Tight end is another spot Horns247 identified as a top five position of need. The Longhorns could be losing three scholarship tight ends next offseason and will need to bolster the group. Winston was an early commit to the Longhorns and a versatile prospect Texas identified and pressed for in the fall. He’s continuously reaffirmed his pledge to the Longhorns after choosing Texas over Ohio State and UCF. We went with Armstrong over Nick Townsend as the second tight end in the group, at least for now. The Jasper standout has connected with both Steve Sarkisian and Jeff Banks on visits and is feeling the press. This one could come down to Texas vs. Texas A&M. The Longhorns recently landed Armstrong’s teammate, via flip from the Aggies, in linebacker Tyanthony Smith.

OFFENSIVE LINE

Lewisville five-star tackle Michael Fasusi

Bridgeland four-star tackle lineman Jonte Newman

DeSoto three-star tackle Byron Washington

Port Neches-Groves three-star interior lineman Jackson Christian

Cedar Hill interior Jordan Coleman

Cedar Hill interior Devin Coleman

Texas only signed three offensive linemen in 2024, but still has quality depth at the position group overall. We believe 2025 will certainly yield more signees at the position. And doesn’t get much bigger than Fasusi. The Longhorns are battling with Oklahoma most notably for the state’s top lineman. Newman earned an offer from the Longhorns last summer and is high on the program, among others like Alabama, Oklahoma, and Texas A&M, makeup a part of his top eight. Washington is another prospect Texas has been moving up the list for since last summer. He fits the bill of what Kyle Flood recruits at the position at 6-foot-7.5, 380 pounds. Oregon and TCU are also heavily in the picture. Christian was a lineman Texas identified as its camp last summer and offered early, well before any other major schools. That could pay off in its race with Texas A&M for the in-state lineman. Last but not least, the Longhorns staff are impressed with OL brother duo Jordan and Devon Coleman. UT offered the latter recently, which leads us to believe Texas is in the driver’s seat for both at this juncture.

Footnotes: This doesn’t mean Texas isn’t in the race for other highly-coveted in-state linemen like Ty Haywood or Lamont Rogers — they are. We feel the makeup of this combination of recruits for now makes the most sense.

DEFENSIVE LINE

Texarkana (TX) Pleasant Grove four-star Lance Jackson — Texas commit

Melbourne (FL) Eau Gallie three-star Brandon Brown — Texas commit

Lufkin three-star Zion Williams

Spring three-star Floyd Guidry

Cy-Fair three-star Landon Rink

After only signing two defensive lineman in 2024 when the original hope was to sign four, it’s safe to say that Texas is going to need to sign a larger quantity of true defensive lineman in 2025. Lance Jackson is already committed and while he’s listed by 247Sports as a defensive line prospect, he has the frame, athleticism, and abilities to play either defensive line or edge at the next level. Brandon Brown is also obviously committed, but with his situation of committing to play for Bo Davis before ever visiting Texas once we’re treating him as a soft commit but will still be including him on this list. Jackson’s positional flexibility gives Texas a lot of options with how they decide to fill in the rest of the defensive line haul. As of now, Zion Williams, Floyd Guidry, and Landon Rink are the three who currently make the most sense to join Brown and Jackson in the Longhorns’ class. Some sources around Rink believe that Oklahoma and Texas A&M are currently better positioned than Texas is, but regardless of how true that is I’m still rocking with my Texas crystal ball for the time being. With the legacy factor being involved amongst other things this one just feels very similar to Colton Vasek’s recruitment and I ultimately like the Longhorns’ chances to eventually turn momentum around. To add sprinkles to the cake, Rink’s father and Vasek’s father happened to be gameday roommates during their time on the Forty Acres. Texas will have to battle TCU, Texas A&M, and LSU for Zion Williams but I’m going to gamble that Kenny Baker will be able to get it done. TCU’s defensive line coach Jamarkus McFarland has been family friends with Williams’ family since Williams was a toddler. The new Texas A&M staff is coming on strong, and Williams happened to be one of Bo Davis’ first offers once he got to LSU and the Bayou Bengals got him to campus for a visit rather quickly. Outside of LSU which is effectively an extension of East Texas being in Baton Rouge, it would be a big shock to just about everyone if Williams was to leave the state for college. Floyd Guidry’s recruitment might be the most cut and dry of the defensive line group as Guidry grew up pulling for the Longhorns telling Horns247 he has several burnt orange jerseys in his closet at home. Bo Davis and LSU are surging a little bit after offering, but ultimately this feels like Texas’ recruitment to lose regardless of who’s coaching the Longhorns’ defensive line.

Footnotes: A dream scenario for Texas would be to add Dilan Battle and/or DJ Sanders to this list as both of those guys present more of the gap plugging type that Zion Williams is rather than the gap shooting type that Guidry and Rink are. Battle seems too open at this time to make the call to include him on this list whereas Sanders really seems to be trending to A&M. While there’s plenty of things up in the air about Sanders’ recruitment, it’s starting to feel like it’s a universal understanding across the industry that Sanders will end up either in College Station or Austin.

EDGE

Dallas South Oak Cliff four-star Kamauryn Morgan

Humble Summer Creek four-star Chad Woodfork

There isn’t much new to report on with Kamauryn Morgan. Georgia, Oregon, Texas, Texas A&M, and SMU have been the schools with the most buzz for several months and that’s continued as we’ve gotten further into the offseason. Texas continues to be the school with the most buzz around them according to a source near Morgan and the same source takes the Longhorns vs the field each time the question is asked. Morgan is also in an almost identical boat to Lance Jackson to where he has the athleticism, frame, and abilities to be either a defensive lineman or true EDGE at the next level. That said, if Texas was to earn his commitment they’d have two guys who are 6-foot-5 defensive line chess pieces. That’d be a great class on its own, but we also think Texas will get one more potential EDGE prospect in Chad Woodfork. Woodfork’s recruitment has also remained largely the same for the most part with Georgia, Texas, Texas Tech, and USC continuing to be the schools with the most buzz around them. Of the major power five programs involved in the recruitment, Texas was the first to offer which has paid dividends for them as the recruitment has gone on. Woodfork also often speaks about being big on academics, and the Longhorns trump the rest of the field besides USC in that category as well. While Woodfork and Micah Hudson are very different kids, Woodfork is someone who I could see passing up the bigger offers to go to Texas Tech as it’s clear he has a few special relationships with that staff. That said, Woodfork also hasn’t taken any out-of-state visits so it’s crucial that Pete Kwiatkowski continues to chip away at the recruitment as Bo Davis was originally Woodfork’s primary recruiter before leaving for LSU due to Davis being the area recruiter for Summer Creek.

LINEBACKER

Shadow Creek three-star Anthony Williams — Texas commit

McKinney four-star Riley Pettijohn

Dallas Skyline four-star Elijah Barnes

Florida State, Ohio State, Texas A&M, and USC will be who Texas has to battle for Riley Pettijohn but we continue to like the Longhorns’ chances down the stretch as Hank South has already put in a crystal ball prediction in favor of Texas to land Pettijohn. Jeff Choate did a great job laying the groundwork in the recruitment and Johnny Nansen did a great job of making the transition as smooth as possible. Barnes on the other hand will be a battle between Florida State, LSU, Oklahoma, Oregon, Texas, and Texas A&M. While we don’t have any crystal ball predictions in for Barnes quite yet, we do think like Pettijohn that Barnes will eventually end up with the Longhorns. Former Texas linebacker Peter Jinkens is Barnes’ position coach at Skyline, Barnes likes the proximity to home Austin can offer, and the same things I said about Choate and Nansen’s recruitment of Pettijohn could be said for Barnes’ recruitment. While Pettijohn and Barnes often get the most attention when it comes to talking about linebackers in 2025, many forget how dynamic, versatile, and how high the ceiling of Anthony Williams is. The trio of Williams, Pettijohn, and Barnes would be a smaller quantity of backers than the often talked about 2023 linebacker haul, but in my opinion it’d be right up there with 2023 for the best group of linebackers Steve Sarkisian has signed since arriving in Austin in January of 2021.

DEFENSIVE BACK

Shadow Creek four-star Cobey Sellers

Fort Bend Hightower three-star Kade Phillips

Klein Oak’s Courtland Guillory

Even though there’s a crystal ball prediction in favor of Oklahoma for Cobey Sellers, his recruitment is far from over. At this point in the process I and just about everyone would be incredibly surprised if the decision doesn’t come down to the Red River Rivals. LSU and Georgia could make it interesting, but again the decision is expected to be between Texas and Oklahoma. Oregon and Texas A&M were included in Sellers’ top six but for now both are non-factors. Texas missed on Jaboree Antoine and won’t be able to afford not splitting the two of Sellers and Dorian Brew. Where things stand right now, I like Texas’ chances with Sellers more. Oklahoma built a lot of momentum with Sellers in the early spring, but with a decision expected to come late summer at the earliest I like the chances of Texas swinging things their way by the time official visit season has come and gone. For months Kade Phillips had been thought of as a Texas A&M lock behind the scenes but that went out the window when the Longhorns recently offered as a source told Horns247 the Texas offer was the offer Phillips had been wanting the most out of any other schools. Guillory on the other hand has tripped to Texas A&M and Oklahoma but a source close to him continues to mention Texas as the school being held in highest regard.

Footnotes: I could see us eventually including Dorian Brew on this list but the differing intel around him is making me play it safe and not include him for now. While some believe it’s Texas with the most buzz, others believe Ohio State never lost it. I think both Devin Williams and Major Preston could be possibilities but they have to make it to campus first for that to hold true. Caleb Chester is in the same tier as Phillips and Guillory in my opinion but he wouldn’t make as much sense as the other two and with Texas having signed five defensive backs in 2024 I wouldn’t expect a super large haul in 2025.

Bevo · February 26

49 minutes ago, Getafix said:

The Stampede: Way-too-early 2025 class predictions
Another way-too-early prediction for the Longhorns recruiting haul in 2025.

HORNS247 STAFF

Hide contents

The Stampede: Way-too-early 2025 class predictions
Another way-too-early prediction for the Longhorns recruiting haul in 2025.

HORNS247 STAFF

Horns247 is back with another edition of The Stampede, Horns247’s weekly gathering of recruiting intel, and in this edition we're doing another way-too-early 2025 class prediction.

It's important to remember that we're still in the month of February and in todays age of College Football with NIL and the NCAA Transfer Portal, truly anything can happen between now and Early Signing Day.

That said, it's still way too early in the cycle for us to feel particularly amazing about every prospect on this list which brings up a great reminder that this series is more for fun than anything else at this point in time.

‌
For those curious, Hank was in charge of offense and Jordan was in charge of defense.

Without further ado, let's get into it.

QUARTERBACK

Saraland (Ala.) four-star KJ Lacey — Texas commit

Quarterback hasn’t been considered a position of need for Texas in quite a while. But with the expectation being Quinn Ewers will enter the NFL Draft next spring, that will leave just two scholarship quarterbacks on the roster in Arch Manning and Trey Owens. The Longhorns addressed this early, landing Lacey last summer. He’s been the foundation of the 2025 class thus far, Lacey’s reaffirmed his pledge to the Longhorns on numerous occasions, despite still taking visits to programs like Auburn, Alabama, and Ole Miss. Lacey is helping UT recruit and appears firm in his decision. He recently told Horns247’s Jordan Scruggs he’ll be in Austin twice this spring — once for the spring game and again prior to April 20. He also visited campus in January. So far, no other quarterbacks have emerged on the radar for Texas in 2025, which is another indicator as to how Texas views both Lacey as a prospect and his commitment status.

RUNNING BACK

Santa Ana (CA) Mater Dei four-star Jordon Davison

Tyler Chapel Hill three-star Rickey Stewart

Davison has been arguably running backs coach Tashard Choice’s top guy on the board since early in the process. That’s reflecting in his recruitment, too, as the elite ball carrier from the West Coast has trekked out to Austin a half dozen times, most recently with his family for Junior Day. With a national profile, programs like Alabama, Colorado, Ohio State, and others, are all in the picture. But sources close to the situation feel UT has set the pace in this one. There’s been debate in the past about who else could join the fold, particularly from within the state of Texas. Stewart has emerged as the most likely candidate to fill that void. Horns247’s Jordan Scruggs recently placed a Crystal Ball prediction in favor of the Longhorns. Stewart earned an offer from Texas at Junior Day, at the time committed to SMU. He’s since backed off that pledge to the Mustangs if that tells you anything.

WIDE RECEIVER

Duncanville five-star Dakorien Moore — LSU Commit

Santa Ana (CA) Mater Dei four-star Marcus Harris

Alamo Heights four-star Michael Terry III (ATH)

In wide receivers coach Chris Jackson’s first full cycle with the Longhorns, Texas landed undoubtedly the strongest wide receivers group in the country, factoring in both the high school and transfer ranks. Looking towards 2025, and the state of Texas is loaded at the position. And it could come down to first come, first serve with the amount of talent out there. The only exception to that is Moore, who’s currently committed to LSU. He’s obviously already made a decision, but the Longhorns are going to continue pressing to flip the Bayou Bengals pledge to the end. There’s been optimism at times as to Texas’ chances, speaking to sources. Texas has to keep getting him on campus and chipping away. Harris, like the aforementioned Davison, has been to Texas on a handful of occasions, and will return on April 18 as Horns247 reported over the weekend. A recruit with a national profile, plenty of programs across the country are in play for Harris, but Texas appears the best positioned, per sources. And we’ve felt that way really since last summer. We’ll continue to watch this one play out, but our pick is on the Longhorns. Last but not least, Terry earned an offer from Texas at Junior Day and the Longhorns immediately vaulted up his list. We’ll include him in the wide receiver group as an athlete. TCU and Texas A&M are also heavily in the picture, as is Nebraska where he recently set an official visit. We’re going with UT for now.

Footnotes: As noted, this wide receivers class could go in a few different directions, and could be dependent upon timing for some of these guys. Others like Andrew Marsh, Kaliq Lockett, Taz Williams Jr, Jaime Ffrench, etc., are all high on Texas’ radar and could find their way in this group in a later mock class edition based off when they make their decisions.

TIGHT END

Calhoun (GA) four-star Emaree Winston — Texas commit

Jasper four-star Kiotti Armstrong

Tight end is another spot Horns247 identified as a top five position of need. The Longhorns could be losing three scholarship tight ends next offseason and will need to bolster the group. Winston was an early commit to the Longhorns and a versatile prospect Texas identified and pressed for in the fall. He’s continuously reaffirmed his pledge to the Longhorns after choosing Texas over Ohio State and UCF. We went with Armstrong over Nick Townsend as the second tight end in the group, at least for now. The Jasper standout has connected with both Steve Sarkisian and Jeff Banks on visits and is feeling the press. This one could come down to Texas vs. Texas A&M. The Longhorns recently landed Armstrong’s teammate, via flip from the Aggies, in linebacker Tyanthony Smith.

OFFENSIVE LINE

Lewisville five-star tackle Michael Fasusi

Bridgeland four-star tackle lineman Jonte Newman

DeSoto three-star tackle Byron Washington

Port Neches-Groves three-star interior lineman Jackson Christian

Cedar Hill interior Jordan Coleman

Cedar Hill interior Devin Coleman

Texas only signed three offensive linemen in 2024, but still has quality depth at the position group overall. We believe 2025 will certainly yield more signees at the position. And doesn’t get much bigger than Fasusi. The Longhorns are battling with Oklahoma most notably for the state’s top lineman. Newman earned an offer from the Longhorns last summer and is high on the program, among others like Alabama, Oklahoma, and Texas A&M, makeup a part of his top eight. Washington is another prospect Texas has been moving up the list for since last summer. He fits the bill of what Kyle Flood recruits at the position at 6-foot-7.5, 380 pounds. Oregon and TCU are also heavily in the picture. Christian was a lineman Texas identified as its camp last summer and offered early, well before any other major schools. That could pay off in its race with Texas A&M for the in-state lineman. Last but not least, the Longhorns staff are impressed with OL brother duo Jordan and Devon Coleman. UT offered the latter recently, which leads us to believe Texas is in the driver’s seat for both at this juncture.

Footnotes: This doesn’t mean Texas isn’t in the race for other highly-coveted in-state linemen like Ty Haywood or Lamont Rogers — they are. We feel the makeup of this combination of recruits for now makes the most sense.

DEFENSIVE LINE

Texarkana (TX) Pleasant Grove four-star Lance Jackson — Texas commit

Melbourne (FL) Eau Gallie three-star Brandon Brown — Texas commit

Lufkin three-star Zion Williams

Spring three-star Floyd Guidry

Cy-Fair three-star Landon Rink

After only signing two defensive lineman in 2024 when the original hope was to sign four, it’s safe to say that Texas is going to need to sign a larger quantity of true defensive lineman in 2025. Lance Jackson is already committed and while he’s listed by 247Sports as a defensive line prospect, he has the frame, athleticism, and abilities to play either defensive line or edge at the next level. Brandon Brown is also obviously committed, but with his situation of committing to play for Bo Davis before ever visiting Texas once we’re treating him as a soft commit but will still be including him on this list. Jackson’s positional flexibility gives Texas a lot of options with how they decide to fill in the rest of the defensive line haul. As of now, Zion Williams, Floyd Guidry, and Landon Rink are the three who currently make the most sense to join Brown and Jackson in the Longhorns’ class. Some sources around Rink believe that Oklahoma and Texas A&M are currently better positioned than Texas is, but regardless of how true that is I’m still rocking with my Texas crystal ball for the time being. With the legacy factor being involved amongst other things this one just feels very similar to Colton Vasek’s recruitment and I ultimately like the Longhorns’ chances to eventually turn momentum around. To add sprinkles to the cake, Rink’s father and Vasek’s father happened to be gameday roommates during their time on the Forty Acres. Texas will have to battle TCU, Texas A&M, and LSU for Zion Williams but I’m going to gamble that Kenny Baker will be able to get it done. TCU’s defensive line coach Jamarkus McFarland has been family friends with Williams’ family since Williams was a toddler. The new Texas A&M staff is coming on strong, and Williams happened to be one of Bo Davis’ first offers once he got to LSU and the Bayou Bengals got him to campus for a visit rather quickly. Outside of LSU which is effectively an extension of East Texas being in Baton Rouge, it would be a big shock to just about everyone if Williams was to leave the state for college. Floyd Guidry’s recruitment might be the most cut and dry of the defensive line group as Guidry grew up pulling for the Longhorns telling Horns247 he has several burnt orange jerseys in his closet at home. Bo Davis and LSU are surging a little bit after offering, but ultimately this feels like Texas’ recruitment to lose regardless of who’s coaching the Longhorns’ defensive line.

Footnotes: A dream scenario for Texas would be to add Dilan Battle and/or DJ Sanders to this list as both of those guys present more of the gap plugging type that Zion Williams is rather than the gap shooting type that Guidry and Rink are. Battle seems too open at this time to make the call to include him on this list whereas Sanders really seems to be trending to A&M. While there’s plenty of things up in the air about Sanders’ recruitment, it’s starting to feel like it’s a universal understanding across the industry that Sanders will end up either in College Station or Austin.

EDGE

Dallas South Oak Cliff four-star Kamauryn Morgan

Humble Summer Creek four-star Chad Woodfork

There isn’t much new to report on with Kamauryn Morgan. Georgia, Oregon, Texas, Texas A&M, and SMU have been the schools with the most buzz for several months and that’s continued as we’ve gotten further into the offseason. Texas continues to be the school with the most buzz around them according to a source near Morgan and the same source takes the Longhorns vs the field each time the question is asked. Morgan is also in an almost identical boat to Lance Jackson to where he has the athleticism, frame, and abilities to be either a defensive lineman or true EDGE at the next level. That said, if Texas was to earn his commitment they’d have two guys who are 6-foot-5 defensive line chess pieces. That’d be a great class on its own, but we also think Texas will get one more potential EDGE prospect in Chad Woodfork. Woodfork’s recruitment has also remained largely the same for the most part with Georgia, Texas, Texas Tech, and USC continuing to be the schools with the most buzz around them. Of the major power five programs involved in the recruitment, Texas was the first to offer which has paid dividends for them as the recruitment has gone on. Woodfork also often speaks about being big on academics, and the Longhorns trump the rest of the field besides USC in that category as well. While Woodfork and Micah Hudson are very different kids, Woodfork is someone who I could see passing up the bigger offers to go to Texas Tech as it’s clear he has a few special relationships with that staff. That said, Woodfork also hasn’t taken any out-of-state visits so it’s crucial that Pete Kwiatkowski continues to chip away at the recruitment as Bo Davis was originally Woodfork’s primary recruiter before leaving for LSU due to Davis being the area recruiter for Summer Creek.

LINEBACKER

Shadow Creek three-star Anthony Williams — Texas commit

McKinney four-star Riley Pettijohn

Dallas Skyline four-star Elijah Barnes

Florida State, Ohio State, Texas A&M, and USC will be who Texas has to battle for Riley Pettijohn but we continue to like the Longhorns’ chances down the stretch as Hank South has already put in a crystal ball prediction in favor of Texas to land Pettijohn. Jeff Choate did a great job laying the groundwork in the recruitment and Johnny Nansen did a great job of making the transition as smooth as possible. Barnes on the other hand will be a battle between Florida State, LSU, Oklahoma, Oregon, Texas, and Texas A&M. While we don’t have any crystal ball predictions in for Barnes quite yet, we do think like Pettijohn that Barnes will eventually end up with the Longhorns. Former Texas linebacker Peter Jinkens is Barnes’ position coach at Skyline, Barnes likes the proximity to home Austin can offer, and the same things I said about Choate and Nansen’s recruitment of Pettijohn could be said for Barnes’ recruitment. While Pettijohn and Barnes often get the most attention when it comes to talking about linebackers in 2025, many forget how dynamic, versatile, and how high the ceiling of Anthony Williams is. The trio of Williams, Pettijohn, and Barnes would be a smaller quantity of backers than the often talked about 2023 linebacker haul, but in my opinion it’d be right up there with 2023 for the best group of linebackers Steve Sarkisian has signed since arriving in Austin in January of 2021.

DEFENSIVE BACK

Shadow Creek four-star Cobey Sellers

Fort Bend Hightower three-star Kade Phillips

Klein Oak’s Courtland Guillory

Even though there’s a crystal ball prediction in favor of Oklahoma for Cobey Sellers, his recruitment is far from over. At this point in the process I and just about everyone would be incredibly surprised if the decision doesn’t come down to the Red River Rivals. LSU and Georgia could make it interesting, but again the decision is expected to be between Texas and Oklahoma. Oregon and Texas A&M were included in Sellers’ top six but for now both are non-factors. Texas missed on Jaboree Antoine and won’t be able to afford not splitting the two of Sellers and Dorian Brew. Where things stand right now, I like Texas’ chances with Sellers more. Oklahoma built a lot of momentum with Sellers in the early spring, but with a decision expected to come late summer at the earliest I like the chances of Texas swinging things their way by the time official visit season has come and gone. For months Kade Phillips had been thought of as a Texas A&M lock behind the scenes but that went out the window when the Longhorns recently offered as a source told Horns247 the Texas offer was the offer Phillips had been wanting the most out of any other schools. Guillory on the other hand has tripped to Texas A&M and Oklahoma but a source close to him continues to mention Texas as the school being held in highest regard.

Footnotes: I could see us eventually including Dorian Brew on this list but the differing intel around him is making me play it safe and not include him for now. While some believe it’s Texas with the most buzz, others believe Ohio State never lost it. I think both Devin Williams and Major Preston could be possibilities but they have to make it to campus first for that to hold true. Caleb Chester is in the same tier as Phillips and Guillory in my opinion but he wouldn’t make as much sense as the other two and with Texas having signed five defensive backs in 2024 I wouldn’t expect a super large haul in 2025.

I think Texas will end up having a more highly ranked class than what they are projecting. Some of those guys listed above will commit to us by early spring and then like last year, we will go national for all the big names heading into the fall.

Thiefery · February 26

39 minutes ago, Bevo said:

I think Texas will end up having a more highly ranked class than what they are projecting. Some of those guys listed above will commit to us by early spring and then like last year, we will go national for all the big names heading into the fall.

there's too much smoke for the WR out of Hitchcock to think he's not going to be included in this class. I also think Harris if he wants, will get a spot in this class too. Sark seems to want to keep that relationship going out in CA

so what's the opinion of DJ Sanders?? Ketch (I know) is really high on him, while listening to Bobby/Gerry.. they feel he's more of a project despite him being ranked so high early.

Bevo · February 26

13 minutes ago, Thiefery said:

there's too much smoke for the WR out of Hitchcock to think he's not going to be included in this class. I also think Harris if he wants, will get a spot in this class too. Sark seems to want to keep that relationship going out in CA

so what's the opinion of DJ Sanders?? Ketch (I know) is really high on him, while listening to Bobby/Gerry.. they feel he's more of a project despite him being ranked so high early.

He is big and is a space eater but isn't very fast or quick. So he fits what we are looking for but he won't do great at camps. He plays outside in high school but he won't be doing that in college, ever. So, I'm not sure if it matters that much if his technique is pretty lame. He wouldn't play as a freshman either way.

MuellerHorn · February 26

Monday morning recruiting updates from OTF (Gerry)

https://ontexasfootball.com/news/monday-morning-smorgasbord-of-recruiting-nuggets-718-am-cst-r292/

(text spoiled below):

Spoiler

Monday morning smorgasbord of recruiting nuggets (7:18 a.m. CST)

By Gerry Hamilton

3 hours ago

Monday morning smorgasbord of recruiting nuggets

It's time to start the week off with a Chick-fil-a 30 count of nuggets with extra BBQ sauce and a large sweet tea with free refills.

Andrew Marsh locks in Texas visit

OnTexasFootball 4-star wide receiver Andrew Marsh (Katy, Texas) Jordan told OTF Sunday that he has a visit set to Texas March 25. Marsh, 6-1 and 175 pounds, has remained in constant contact with Chris Jackson since last summer. He was on campus during the 2023 season for the Wyoming game. Texas head coach Steve Sarkisian stopped by Jordan High in January. He made a Junior day visit to Texas A&M in January. Nebraska and Kentucky are in full pursuit.

Jeff Banks working to get TE on campus

Spring (Texas) Dekaney 2025 TE Nick Townsend is a strong possibility to be in Austin April 6. Banks and Townsend spoke two days ago. Banks' message was clear that the Longhorns want the 6-4, 220 pounder to visit April 6. And that Texas is recruiting Townsend at tight end.

"I'm liking them so far. When I went up there for Junior day (January 20), it felt like home," Townsend told OnTexasFootball Saturday. "That was the best campus I have been on so far."

That comment includes a Junior day visit to Texas A&m in January.

Townsend Texas A&M March 22, USC and California March during spring break and Arizona State official visit in April. He will make that April official visit to Arizona State with fellow OnTexasFootball 4-star and Dekaney teammate Tanook Hines. Hines told OTF Saturday that he also remains in contact with Texas, and a spring visit is possible.

Sunshine Star 4-star to visit Texas in April

Sunshine State speedster and OnTexasFootball 4-star wide receiver Winston Watkins Jr. (Naples, Fla./First Baptist Academy) confirmed with OTF that he is scheduled to visit Texas April 18. This will be a first visit to Texas for the 5-10, 175 pounder with 4.45 speed. Watkins, a one-time pledge to both Texas A&M and Colorado early in the process, is in contact with Texas wide receivers coach Chris Jackson. April 18 will be the first time on campus in Austin.

Watkins has a spring full of unofficial visits:
Florida March 7
Clemson March 11
Pittsburgh March 21
Syracuse March 27
Indiana April 2
Ohio State April 9
Tennessee April 13
Florida State April 16
Texas April 18
Oregon April 25

Zion Williams and Texas

OnTexasFootball would rank the contenders for Lufkin (Texas) High's 2025 DL Zion Williams in this order:
LSU 1A
Texas 1B
Texas A&M 3rd
TCU 4th

Williams, 6-4.5 and 320 pounds, spoke with Kenny Baker last week. The Longhorns will get Williams on campus this spring (likely April 20 spring game), and in June for an official visit. He will make a visit to LSU March 9, and Texas A&M is likely near the end of March. TCU is locked in for an official visit 3-5.

Offensive line recruiting

OnTexasFootball broke the news Sunday that Port Neches-Groves IOL Jackson Christian and Cypress (Texas) Bridgeland High's Jonte Newman have scheduled June official visits to Texas.

Christian, 6-5 and 313 pounds, is trending to a Texas A&M vs. Texas battle. He will make official visits to Texas A&M June 14-16 and Texas June 21-23. He will also make April visits to Texas A&M on the 6th, and Texas the 13th.

Newman is more wide open with his recruitment, but Texas has a legit shot. Newman is looking at a spring unofficial visit prior to the June 21-23 official visit. Oregon will get a visit. Oklahoma will likely get a visit. He will be back on campus at Texas A&M, and Alabama is a school of serious interest. Newman, 6-4 and 280 pounds, moved to the Houston area from Lexington, Miss. If Lexington, Miss. sounds a little familiar, that is where Texas 2024 DL target Terrance Hibbler is from. Hibbler attended Holmes County High, where Newman would have attended if he hadn't moved to Texas.

Sunshine State corner Chris Ewald Jr.

Texas defensive backs coach Terry Joseph is in contact with Chris Ewald Jr. (Hollywood, Fla./Chaminade-Madonna). Ewald, 6-0 and 160, is a one-time Michigan verbal with more than 30 offers. The offer list includes 12 SEC programs, including the Longhorns. Texas offered the Broward County cover corner in October of 2023.

Ewald has a busy spring visit scheduled with Miami March 8, LSU March 9, Auburn March 19, Texas A&M March 23 and Tennessee April 6. A visit to Texas is a possibility.

Defensive line recruiting nuggets

Texas defensive line coach Kenny Baker spoke with OnTexasFootball 4-star defensive tackle prospect Myron Charles (Port Charlotte, Fla./High) last week. Baker is working to get Charles on campus this spring. Charles, 6-4 and 280, doesn't have a date locked in yet. OTF considers Florida State the team to beat for the Sunshine State 4-star headed into the spring.

Kenny Baker also reached out to Mansfield (Texas) Timberview High's Dilan Battle in recent days. Baker's message to Battle was working to get him on campus this spring. Battle is scheduled to be at LSU March 9 for the Tigers huge recruiting weekend. He's also scheduled to see Texas A&M later in March. A return trip to Florida is also possible. A TCU official visit in May is a possibility as well. Michigan also remains in the picture.

More notes:

A Sunday prediction in the recruiting world has Texas being in position to beat out USC, LSU and Ohio State for Kaliq Lockett (Sachse, Texas/High). Lockett, 6-1 and 175 pounds, is scheduled to visit Texas April 6 for the Longhorns big weekend of targets on offense.

Texas remains in contact with Terrell (Texas) High 2025 TE/EDGE Keiundre Johnson. Johnson, 6-3.5 and 220 pounds, plans to visit Texas, Texas A&M, USC, SMU and maybe Arkansas this spring. Texas' Jeff Banks has mentioned April 6 and April 20 Spring Game as possible visit dates. Texas A&M and USC are recruiting Johnson as an EDGE prospect.

Richmond (Texas) Randle 2025 DL Chace Sims (6-3, 285) told OTF that he is expecting communication with defensive line coach Kenny Baker to pick up soon. LSU's Bo Davis offered last week, and the Tigers will receive a visit this spring. Texas A&M and TCU are also on the spring visit list. Texas Tech possibly as well.

OnTexasFootball 4-star CB Cobey Sellers (Pearland, Texas/Shadow Creek) said Sunday that he doesn't have any locked in spring visit dates. Oklahoma and Texas are expecting the 6-0, 165 pound cornerback on campus this spring, however. The Sooners enter the spring in the lead spot, but there remains confidence in Austin the Longhorns could win out.

Getafix · February 26

FYI, in his OTF video stream, Gerry said a recruiting contact of his predicted Kaliq Lockett to Texas.

(He refers to it in the smorgasboard above - not sure where official Gerry/OTF predictions will be logged moving forward ... ).

Bevo · February 26

Lance Jackson looks like a very good athlete. He could be a good defensive end but seems like he is awfully big already. I think he would be best at TE. He was recruited by PK, though, I believe.

Thiefery · February 26

28 minutes ago, Bevo said:

Lance Jackson looks like a very good athlete. He could be a good defensive end but seems like he is awfully big already. I think he would be best at TE. He was recruited by PK, though, I believe.

there was an interview with his high school coach and he was saying the focus this season was to get him the ball as a TE.. kid is a freak.. I think if he blows up his Sr season at TE.. staff has some decisions to make

randygilman · February 26

Lance is a DE.

It helps the future team and the whole idea of "hey three high school tight ends... come be a part of the same class" be at least a bit realistic.

texifornia · February 26

https://www.on3.com/db/isaiah-gibson-177044/

texifornia · February 26

https://www.on3.com/db/taz-williams-jr-157688/

NoName · February 26

16 hours ago, MisterP said:

What if I said I wanted to take a shit in his home?

Wrong coach, you fucking moron.

Bozo_Casanova · February 26

On 2/19/2024 at 1:58 PM, closetojumping said:

Good for that player. As always, I hope Texas never recruits another Lake Travis player ever into the eternity of the future. Hopefully the trend sticks here and he can allegedly go get involved with doing shitty things to teammates at OU or Baylor or something. Meanwhile, his mom can sit comfortably above it all in her helicopter, making sure no one is a meanie to her son.

To wit; Ole Miss just offered.

MisterP · February 26

2 hours ago, NoName said:

Wrong coach, you fucking moron.

Woof. All I said was what if, not that I said Warehime was Joe Wickline.

bwub60 · February 26

5 hours ago, Bevo said:

Lance Jackson looks like a very good athlete. He could be a good defensive end but seems like he is awfully big already. I think he would be best at TE. He was recruited by PK, though, I believe.

Stick to your day job

Elmer_Fudd · February 26

6 hours ago, Thiefery said:

there's too much smoke for the WR out of Hitchcock to think he's not going to be included in this class. I also think Harris if he wants, will get a spot in this class too. Sark seems to want to keep that relationship going out in CA

so what's the opinion of DJ Sanders?? Ketch (I know) is really high on him, while listening to Bobby/Gerry.. they feel he's more of a project despite him being ranked so high early.

I think the Hitchcock WR, Lockett, and Moore would be the ideal WR haul. They may not turn down Harris though.

Gerry thinks Sanders may be a better OL prospect than DL, and he likes Zion, Battle, and Guidry more. He's the highest ranked of them all, but is propped up by Rivals being #39 nationally. You can expect some Looch/texags boasting when he commits to them.

I think we should do whatever it takes to get Zion, but he likes Bo and visited them instead of us on Jr Day and is heading back next month. Fuck LSU to.

Elmer_Fudd · February 26

5 hours ago, Bevo said:

Lance Jackson looks like a very good athlete. He could be a good defensive end but seems like he is awfully big already. I think he would be best at TE. He was recruited by PK, though, I believe.

May end up at DT. Which wouldn't be the worst thing honestly. IDK if we can pull three TE's in one class, but Winston, Armstrong, and Townsend are all better than what we've signed the last few classes.

BurntOrange&White · February 26

2 minutes ago, Elmer_Fudd said:

May end up at DT. Which wouldn't be the worst thing honestly. IDK if we can pull three TE's in one class, but Winston, Armstrong, and Townsend are all better than what we've signed the last few classes.

We want basically a strongside DE that is about 265-280

Atticus · February 26

I would take Kelshaun Johnson, Kaliq Lockett, Emmanuel Choice, and maybe even Tanook Hines before Marcus Harris.

But I get the Mater Dei connection.

Elmer_Fudd · February 26

On3 updated its rankings. They have some recent offers super high (Orogbo #26 nationally and Phillips #82 nationally) and then guys like Zion Williams and Townsend as 3*'s and dropped Battle out of the top 300.

https://www.on3.com/db/rankings/player/football/2025/?state=tx

Edited February 26 by Elmer_Fudd

Vertigo · February 26

43 minutes ago, Elmer_Fudd said:

On3 updated its rankings. They have some recent offers super high (Orogbo #26 nationally and Phillips #82 nationally) and then guys like Zion Williams and Townsend as 3*'s and dropped Battle out of the top 300.

https://www.on3.com/db/rankings/player/football/2025/?state=tx

Surprising on Williams considering the hype he has gotten, but if I am looking at his hudl with fresh eyes there is nothing that is jumping out at me as being elite.

Elmer_Fudd · February 26

Also, Ty Haywood is now #11 nationally on On3 and #15 nationally on Rivals.

mr. sunshine · February 26

Woodfork also often speaks about being big on academics, and the Longhorns trump the rest of the field besides USC in that category as well.

Hookem2147 · February 27

1 hour ago, Elmer_Fudd said:

On3 updated its rankings. They have some recent offers super high (Orogbo #26 nationally and Phillips #82 nationally) and then guys like Zion Williams and Townsend as 3*'s and dropped Battle out of the top 300.

https://www.on3.com/db/rankings/player/football/2025/?state=tx

I saw Battle play live this year and it was a bunch of meh, which if you are a top 300 player in the country feels like shouldn't be the case.

He also did not look close to 6'3 like he is listed on On3.

Edited February 27 by Hookem2147

Bevo · February 27

1 hour ago, BurntOrange&White said:

We want basically a strongside DE that is about 265-280

His brother is 280 but Lance seems thicker (but a little shorter) as a high school junior. He will do well on the run stuffing side of things - but how well he can get to the QB will determine his positional success at Texas. I think Landon had 6.5 sacks as a junior at Arky but I didn't watch him play this year.

mr. sunshine · February 27

1 hour ago, mr. sunshine said:

Woodfork also often speaks about being big on academics, and the Longhorns trump the rest of the field besides USC in that category as well.

Don't like to quote myself but is the University of Spoiled Children really respected that much academically?

onsager · February 27

50 minutes ago, mr. sunshine said:

Don't like to quote myself but is the University of Spoiled Children really respected that much academically?

It's pretty good. They've made a huge effort to improve their image academically, and I think it's working. I'd still place it a tier (or more) below a school like UT Austin though.

Edited February 27 by onsager

Enchubben · February 27

33 minutes ago, onsager said:

It's pretty good. They've made a huge effort to improve their image academically, and I think it's working. I'd still place it a tier (or more) below a school like UT Austin though.

They’re also wrong, since he has visited USC (out of state) and will visit LSU and likely one or two others before it’s all said and done. I may like Texas odds over all others, but I’d probably take the field over Texas at this point in time.

Bevo · February 27

4 hours ago, Elmer_Fudd said:

On3 updated its rankings. They have some recent offers super high (Orogbo #26 nationally and Phillips #82 nationally) and then guys like Zion Williams and Townsend as 3*'s and dropped Battle out of the top 300.

https://www.on3.com/db/rankings/player/football/2025/?state=tx

What does commit status mean? Based on that, we will get shut out of all the offensive linemen in the Top 49 and OU will get 3. It also shows that we will get shut out at CB and DL, albeit they only have one DL in the Top 50 players in the state.

Bevo · February 27

@RGBIII Motherfucker, I was just with a patient who played with RG3 and I called him RGBIII. The guy was like "Who?" I blame you.

Hookem2147 · February 27

IT: Power rankings: Where Texas sits with each position within the 2025 cycle

Spoiler

Quarterback

As far as I can tell KJ Lacey was Texas’ top uncommitted quarterback prospect. Landing him early and holding on to him despite spirited pushes from Auburn, Alabama, and Ole Miss has been one of the quieter plusses of the young cycle.

Running Back

Tashard Choice shuffled his big board last year to pursue Christian Clark in addition to his original No. 1 Jerrick Gibson. He’s done the same this cycle to go after Chapel Hill runner Rickey Stewart.

Choice is in great shape in this cycle and already in great shape in 2026.

Linebacker

Johnny Nansen inherited upside athlete Anthony Williams in the class in addition to having good timing with in-state talent. Texas is in very good position to land both Elijah Barnes and Riley Pettijohn from DFW. There are also a handful of solid secondary options in the state, including Jonathan Cunningham and Javar Thomas.

Where it could get interesting is with out-of-state recruiting. There are a lot of options from California to Florida to explore. It’s a good cycle in general at linebacker.

Edge

Having Lance Jackson in the class has positive effects beyond the obvious. It allows Pete Kwiatkowski to remain patient and recruit nationally. That means new names will pop up, like Damien Shanklin from Indianapolis. Shanklin will take an official visit in June. Another new name, Isaiah Gibson from Georgia, popped up yesterday for Texas. It doesn’t matter all that much that Shanklin will probably end up at Notre Dame and Gibson at Georgia because PK is playing with house money at this time.

PK and Nansen have a shot to land Marco Jones from the Bay Area.

Inside Texas does not expect Kamauryn Morgan to end up in the Texas class, at least not at this time. That one turned on a dime.

It’s pretty interesting that Smith Orogbo isn’t hearing much from Texas. Chad Woodfork, who is sort of similar to Orogbo, is down to Texas and Texas Tech and could decide in March.

Wide Receiver

Chris Jackson and Steve Sarkisian have pretty clear tiers they’re working on. How soon will they push all in for a Tier 2 receiver? That will be something to watch for in June.

For now, the staff is content to recruit elite prospects like Dakorien Moore, Andrew Marsh, Marcus Harris, Caleb Cunningham, Jaime Ffrench, and Quincey Porter.

If they land any two from Tier 1 the class is a success. With most of these guys visiting this Spring the staff should get some clarity on where it stands with each.

(It’s also possible they have more players in Tier 1 than what’s listed)

Tight End

Emaree Winston is already committed and IT believes UT is the favorite for Nick Townsend. Of the players Texas is in good shape for, Kiotti Armstrong should be the biggest dogfight due to Texas A&M.

Defensive Back

IT believes Texas will win out for Cobey Sellers and remain in it for Dorian Brew until the end. Sellers remains a Red River Shootout while Brew will likely end up at Texas, LSU, Ohio State, or maybe USC. Another corner to watch is Caleb Chester who may profile pretty well to Texas.

I see Courtland Guillory as more of a safety prospect longterm, but that’s not a bad thing. Texas is in good shape there but OU is pushing as well.

I’m a big fan of the Kade Phillips offer that went out last week. Texas almost overplayed its hand by waiting but the offer didn’t happen too late. Despite having a brother at A&M, Texas is in good shape, assuming Blake Gideon‘s foot is on the gas from here on out. Given his recent track exploits, a sub-21.88 200 meters and an over 24-7 long jump, that should be a safe assumption.

Defensive Tackle

There’s definitely some consternation in the fan base at defensive tackle but Kenny Baker caught a similar break to Nansen with there being plenty of quality instate options. I think he also caught a break with Zion Williams seeming to profile to UT. I remain baffled by Williams’ low ranking but that’s the guy I want most and I believe Texas feels the same given Baker’s level of contact.

Texas is also in good shape for Dilan Battle and Floyd Guidry.

In the coming weeks we should learn whether or not the staff can hold on to Brandon Brown‘s commitment. This will be a crucial stretch in that regard.

I think Baker and Texas are in fine shape at the position but the amount of competition for big players is fierce and Baker’s mettle is going to be tested this cycle. I think he will benefit from the logo and all that comes with it. Though, we’re probably do a reminder that it’s difficult to come into a cycle “late” and pick up where the last guy left off, especially when the last guy went to a regional recruiting rival.

I’m not worried. I think Texas understands it has to treat defensive tackles like they’re portal players because it’s very difficult to supplement your roster with DT talent through the portal. The time to get them is now, it’s not later. You have to nail your evaluations then land them at all costs.

Offensive Line

Kyle Flood has a very healthy big board, however, his positioning with the OT’s is a bit precarious at this time. Texas needs to separate from OU and Missouri for Michael Fasusi and OU and A&M for Jonte Newman (and possibly Ole Miss). Jackson Christian is another battle with A&M.

Official visits will tell a lot of the story. Newman and Christian have officials to Texas already set up. That’s a decently positive sign.

I do like where Flood is at for John Mills from San Francisco and Tyler Thomas from the other Bay Area.

The recent Devin Coleman offer caught my attention. He, of course, is the brother of massive Jordan Coleman who was offered last Fall. If Texas pushes for both then numbers at O-line get a lot easier.

Park Gothic · February 27

13 minutes ago, Hookem2147 said:

I think he also caught a break with Zion Williams seeming to profile to UT. I remain baffled by Williams’ low ranking but that’s the guy I want most and I believe Texas feels the same given Baker’s level of contact.

Fucking 6'4, 295 lbs from Lufkin? With an Old Testament name? Hell yeah brother, lock that kid down.

https://247sports.com/player/zion-williams-46138858/

Bevo · February 27

56 minutes ago, Hookem2147 said:

IT: Power rankings: Where Texas sits with each position within the 2025 cycle

Hide contents

Quarterback

As far as I can tell KJ Lacey was Texas’ top uncommitted quarterback prospect. Landing him early and holding on to him despite spirited pushes from Auburn, Alabama, and Ole Miss has been one of the quieter plusses of the young cycle.

Running Back

Tashard Choice shuffled his big board last year to pursue Christian Clark in addition to his original No. 1 Jerrick Gibson. He’s done the same this cycle to go after Chapel Hill runner Rickey Stewart.

Choice is in great shape in this cycle and already in great shape in 2026.

Linebacker

Johnny Nansen inherited upside athlete Anthony Williams in the class in addition to having good timing with in-state talent. Texas is in very good position to land both Elijah Barnes and Riley Pettijohn from DFW. There are also a handful of solid secondary options in the state, including Jonathan Cunningham and Javar Thomas.

Where it could get interesting is with out-of-state recruiting. There are a lot of options from California to Florida to explore. It’s a good cycle in general at linebacker.

Edge

Having Lance Jackson in the class has positive effects beyond the obvious. It allows Pete Kwiatkowski to remain patient and recruit nationally. That means new names will pop up, like Damien Shanklin from Indianapolis. Shanklin will take an official visit in June. Another new name, Isaiah Gibson from Georgia, popped up yesterday for Texas. It doesn’t matter all that much that Shanklin will probably end up at Notre Dame and Gibson at Georgia because PK is playing with house money at this time.

PK and Nansen have a shot to land Marco Jones from the Bay Area.

Inside Texas does not expect Kamauryn Morgan to end up in the Texas class, at least not at this time. That one turned on a dime.

It’s pretty interesting that Smith Orogbo isn’t hearing much from Texas. Chad Woodfork, who is sort of similar to Orogbo, is down to Texas and Texas Tech and could decide in March.

Wide Receiver

Chris Jackson and Steve Sarkisian have pretty clear tiers they’re working on. How soon will they push all in for a Tier 2 receiver? That will be something to watch for in June.

For now, the staff is content to recruit elite prospects like Dakorien Moore, Andrew Marsh, Marcus Harris, Caleb Cunningham, Jaime Ffrench, and Quincey Porter.

If they land any two from Tier 1 the class is a success. With most of these guys visiting this Spring the staff should get some clarity on where it stands with each.

(It’s also possible they have more players in Tier 1 than what’s listed)

Tight End

Emaree Winston is already committed and IT believes UT is the favorite for Nick Townsend. Of the players Texas is in good shape for, Kiotti Armstrong should be the biggest dogfight due to Texas A&M.

Defensive Back

IT believes Texas will win out for Cobey Sellers and remain in it for Dorian Brew until the end. Sellers remains a Red River Shootout while Brew will likely end up at Texas, LSU, Ohio State, or maybe USC. Another corner to watch is Caleb Chester who may profile pretty well to Texas.

I see Courtland Guillory as more of a safety prospect longterm, but that’s not a bad thing. Texas is in good shape there but OU is pushing as well.

I’m a big fan of the Kade Phillips offer that went out last week. Texas almost overplayed its hand by waiting but the offer didn’t happen too late. Despite having a brother at A&M, Texas is in good shape, assuming Blake Gideon‘s foot is on the gas from here on out. Given his recent track exploits, a sub-21.88 200 meters and an over 24-7 long jump, that should be a safe assumption.

Defensive Tackle

There’s definitely some consternation in the fan base at defensive tackle but Kenny Baker caught a similar break to Nansen with there being plenty of quality instate options. I think he also caught a break with Zion Williams seeming to profile to UT. I remain baffled by Williams’ low ranking but that’s the guy I want most and I believe Texas feels the same given Baker’s level of contact.

Texas is also in good shape for Dilan Battle and Floyd Guidry.

In the coming weeks we should learn whether or not the staff can hold on to Brandon Brown‘s commitment. This will be a crucial stretch in that regard.

I think Baker and Texas are in fine shape at the position but the amount of competition for big players is fierce and Baker’s mettle is going to be tested this cycle. I think he will benefit from the logo and all that comes with it. Though, we’re probably do a reminder that it’s difficult to come into a cycle “late” and pick up where the last guy left off, especially when the last guy went to a regional recruiting rival.

I’m not worried. I think Texas understands it has to treat defensive tackles like they’re portal players because it’s very difficult to supplement your roster with DT talent through the portal. The time to get them is now, it’s not later. You have to nail your evaluations then land them at all costs.

Offensive Line

Kyle Flood has a very healthy big board, however, his positioning with the OT’s is a bit precarious at this time. Texas needs to separate from OU and Missouri for Michael Fasusi and OU and A&M for Jonte Newman (and possibly Ole Miss). Jackson Christian is another battle with A&M.

Official visits will tell a lot of the story. Newman and Christian have officials to Texas already set up. That’s a decently positive sign.

I do like where Flood is at for John Mills from San Francisco and Tyler Thomas from the other Bay Area.

The recent Devin Coleman offer caught my attention. He, of course, is the brother of massive Jordan Coleman who was offered last Fall. If Texas pushes for both then numbers at O-line get a lot easier.

I like that update a lot better than the on3 one.

RockyMountainHighHorn · February 27

1 hour ago, Bevo said:

I like that update a lot better than the on3 one.

On3 had us getting around 15 3 stars….i just don’t see us battling Toledo in the rankings

Foosters · February 27

4 minutes ago, RockyMountainHighHorn said:

On3 had us getting around 15 3 stars….i just don’t see us battling Toledo in the rankings

We probably will get 15 3-stars on On3 after they drop them once they commit. Remember, you can only get an accurate assessment of our 2025 class if you take into account the development of blue chips under Charlie Strong in 2015.

Bevo · February 27

2 minutes ago, RockyMountainHighHorn said:

On3 had us getting around 15 3 stars….i just don’t see us battling Toledo in the rankings

Yeah, unwittingly they have it as being the worst recruiting class since Sark has been here. That is highly, highly unlikely.

closetojumping · February 27

On3 at the national level is as worthless as tits on a boar hog without Bobby and Gerry's input. Just completely ignorable when it comes to Texas.

Bevo · February 27

3 minutes ago, closetojumping said:

On3 at the national level is as worthless as tits on a boar hog without Bobby and Gerry's input. Just completely ignorable when it comes to Texas.

Even if the On3 national guys are special needs, it is hard to imagine them creating a Texas class that far behind A&M and OU. We have a few dollars to spend on NIL, we were just in the playoffs, we have a returning team that will be in the playoffs, we have an elite offensive coordinator, we have solid team chemistry and we are about to put a lot of players on both offense and defense into the league. That is a lot of momentum for them to ignore.

closetojumping · February 27

19 minutes ago, Bevo said:

Even if the On3 national guys are special needs, it is hard to imagine them creating a Texas class that far behind A&M and OU. We have a few dollars to spend on NIL, we were just in the playoffs, we have a returning team that will be in the playoffs, we have an elite offensive coordinator, we have solid team chemistry and we are about to put a lot of players on both offense and defense into the league. That is a lot of momentum for them to ignore.

Whatever is going on there, someone is grinding a bizarre axe. There's not a rational explanation for the way in which they're tracking Texas.

RGBIII · February 27

3 hours ago, Bevo said:

@RGBIII Motherfucker, I was just with a patient who played with RG3 and I called him RGBIII. The guy was like "Who?" I blame you.

I would much rather be confused with RG3 than Tom Herman so I consider this a win

Red Five · February 27

Link to said On3 dumbassery?

IDIOTsavant · February 27

6 minutes ago, Red Five said:

Link to said On3 dumbassery?

Grab your ankles and pull as hard as you can? Still don’t think you’ll be able to get your head up there though.

Edited February 27 by IDIOTsavant

BornAndRaised · February 27

https://247sports.com/player/kiotti-armstrong-46136337/

Bevo14 · February 27

1 hour ago, RGBIII said:

I would much rather be confused with RG3 than Tom Herman so I consider this a win

Bevo · February 27

1 hour ago, Red Five said:

Link to said On3 dumbassery?

I think our class would look something like:

Ranking in Texas

4   Kaliq Lockett       WR
5   Michael Terry       WR
9   Lance Jackson       DE
11   Riley Pettijohn       LB
30   Elijah Barnes       LB
32   Rickey Stewart Jr.       RB
39   Kelshaun Johnson       WR
50   Jonte Newman       DT
59   Taz Williams Jr.       WR
63   Zion Williams       DT
69   Jackson Christian       OG
72   Anthony Williams       LB
82   Tanook Hines       WR
93   Landon Rink       DT
OOS   Marcus Harris       WR


I assume all the additional signees will come from outside the Texas 100.
   Floyd Guidry              DL
   Jordan Coleman       OL
   Byron Washington   OL   (man that guy's film is terrible)

Red Five · February 27

So, no Lacey. Or any other QB. Or Jordan Davison.

Bevo · February 27

6 minutes ago, Red Five said:

So, no Lacey. Or any other QB. Or Jordan Davison.

I probably missed those - their system is kind of messed up. We'll get 6 WR, though - 2 in-state highly ranked guys if Michael Terry is a WR instead of RB. Unfortunately, no DBs or TEs unless the Georgia guy sticks. and 1 OL in the Top 50 in the state (at #50).

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