The Texas Longhorns Provide Dallas Cowboys legend’s son, the top-ranked linebacker in the 2027 class

The Texas Longhorns continue to solidify their dominance on the recruiting trail, this time by landing one of the most buzzworthy prospects in the country. In a move that sent ripples across the national recruiting landscape, the Longhorns have secured a commitment from the No. 1-ranked linebacker in the 2027 class—who just so happens to be the son of Dallas Cowboys legend DeMarcus Ware.

This commitment is not just a major win for head coach Steve Sarkisian and his staff; it’s also a symbolic victory in Texas football lore. The Longhorns are bringing home royalty—football pedigree, athletic excellence, and a player whose last name already carries weight across the state and the NFL.

Let’s break down what this means for Texas, for the Ware family, and for the college football world at large.

To understand the magnitude of this commitment, one must appreciate the legacy of DeMarcus Ware. A Pro Football Hall of Famer and Super Bowl champion, Ware is one of the most iconic defensive players in Cowboys history. With 138.5 career sacks and nine Pro Bowl selections, Ware set a standard for excellence as an edge rusher and team leader.

While his NFL exploits are well documented, his influence clearly extends beyond the professional level. His son—DeMarcus Ware Jr., or “DJ” as he’s often called—has been turning heads since middle school, and his rise up the recruiting charts has only validated the buzz.

Now, with DJ choosing to wear burnt orange, the Longhorns have locked in a future star whose commitment brings both elite talent and a family name that resonates with fans and recruits alike.

At 6-foot-3, 225 pounds, DJ Ware already boasts the size and physicality of a college linebacker—despite being just a high school sophomore. Rated as the No. 1 linebacker in the 2027 class by multiple outlets including 247Sports and On3, Ware has been described as a “violent, instinctive, and versatile defender with sky-high upside.”

Scouts rave about his ability to read and react, his lateral speed, and his football IQ—traits that seem innate, no doubt influenced by a childhood spent watching and learning from one of the NFL’s all-time greats. He’s equally comfortable blitzing off the edge, dropping back into zone coverage, or tracking down ball-carriers from sideline to sideline.

“What makes DJ different is that he already plays with the mindset of a pro,” said one national recruiting analyst. “He doesn’t just fly to the ball—he knows exactly where the ball is going to be.”

His sophomore film features a reel of devastating tackles, coverage plays against tight ends and running backs, and even a few interceptions. DJ Ware isn’t just the son of a football legend—he’s writing his own story, and he’s doing it with authority.

Landing the top linebacker in a class three years out is no small feat, but for Texas, it reflects a larger trend. Since joining the SEC—or at least gearing up for the transition—the Longhorns have been on a recruiting tear. Sarkisian and his staff have turned Austin into a destination for elite defenders, quarterbacks, and skill-position players alike.

DJ Ware becomes the latest blue-chip talent to buy into Sark’s vision. His commitment joins a growing list that includes top-five classes in both 2024 and 2025, and now a 2027 cycle that could be shaping up to be historic. Even more importantly, Ware’s pledge sends a message to other elite prospects: Texas is serious about defense.

“Ware’s commitment gives Texas a face of their 2027 class,” said a Rivals analyst. “He’s a guy other recruits will want to play with, not just because of his name, but because of the standard he sets on the field.”

The Longhorns have always made it a point of pride to lock down in-state talent, and this commitment underscores that mission. Ware attends Southlake Carroll High School—an elite Texas football powerhouse. The program has consistently produced D1 and NFL talent, including names like Greg McElroy, Garrett Wilson, and Mason Holmes.

Keeping a Southlake Carroll star home is another checkmark for Texas’ in-state dominance. With other top programs—including Alabama, Georgia, and LSU—circling around Ware early in the process, it speaks volumes that Texas was able to close the deal this soon.

DJ Ware could’ve followed his father’s path to the SEC or considered schools with more recent playoff success, but instead, he chose to build his own legacy in Austin.

There’s no doubt that Steve Sarkisian’s ability to connect with players and families has transformed the perception of Texas football. While Sark’s offensive genius has attracted quarterbacks and receivers in droves, his recent emphasis on defense—especially hiring coaches with NFL pedigrees—has created a more balanced and appealing program.

Linebackers coach Johnny Nansen played a huge role in Ware’s recruitment. Ware Jr. praised Nansen’s energy and emphasis on both player development and personal growth. Ware’s father, DeMarcus, also reportedly appreciated the way the Texas staff laid out a long-term vision—not just for DJ’s playing career, but for his life beyond football.

That family-first mentality helped separate Texas from the pack.

This isn’t just a football decision—it’s a cultural moment for Texas fans. Having the son of a Dallas Cowboys legend donning burnt orange is a dream come true for many in the fan base. It’s the merging of two iconic football brands: Texas Longhorns and Dallas Cowboys.

From a marketing standpoint, it’s a huge win. Expect Ware jerseys to be among the top sellers when his NIL opportunities expand. The storyline practically writes itself: son of a Hall of Famer, born and raised in Texas, staying home to carry on the family legacy while building one of his own.

In an era where recruiting is as much about brand-building and culture as it is about Xs and Os, DJ Ware’s commitment is a perfect storm.

Another key factor in Ware’s decision was Texas’ growing pipeline to the NFL. With players like Bijan Robinson, Xavier Worthy, and T’Vondre Sweat recently drafted, the Longhorns are shedding the perception that they can’t develop talent for the next level.

Add in the fact that Sarkisian and his staff maintain close relationships with NFL personnel and Ware’s decision starts to look even more pragmatic. He’s betting on Texas to not only win, but to prepare him for Sundays—and with his pedigree, he already has the blueprint for how to make it happen.

Though DJ Ware’s commitment is verbal and non-binding—he can’t sign until December 2026—it’s a strong signal of intent. And based on his family’s reputation, Ware doesn’t strike many as a prospect likely to flip on a whim. Still, in the modern recruiting landscape, Texas will have to keep recruiting him like he’s uncommitted.

The Longhorns will look to build the 2027 class around him, using Ware as a vocal recruiter and program ambassador. He’s already developed friendships with several other elite prospects in Texas and nationally, and there’s buzz that some could soon follow his lead.

With Ware now on board, expect the Longhorns to make even more aggressive moves in the coming months.

In the high-stakes world of college football recruiting, not all commitments are created equal. DJ Ware’s decision to commit to Texas is a win on multiple levels—strategically, symbolically, and athletically.

It’s a statement that Texas can still land the biggest names.

It’s proof that Sarkisian’s staff is connecting with families and earning trust.

And perhaps most importantly, it’s a reminder that some legacies are meant to be continued, but in new colors and on new stages.

For DJ Ware, the path to greatness begins in Austin—not just in honor of his father’s legacy, but in pursuit of his own.

And for the Texas Longhorns, this may be the commitment that defines an era.