In a significant development on the college football recruiting front, the Texas Longhorns have extended a scholarship offer to Cooper Witten, the son of Dallas Cowboys legend Jason Witten. This move underscores the Longhorns’ commitment to securing top-tier talent and maintaining strong ties within the state of Texas.
Cooper Witten, a standout linebacker at Liberty Christian School in Argyle, Texas, has been making waves in the high school football scene. Standing at 6-foot-1 and weighing 210 pounds, he has demonstrated exceptional athleticism and football IQ, attributes likely influenced by his father’s illustrious NFL career. As a rising junior, Cooper has already amassed impressive statistics, including 127 tackles, 98 of which were solo, along with seven interceptions and 14 pass deflections over two varsity seasons.
The offer from Texas adds to a growing list of prestigious programs vying for Cooper’s commitment. Notably, he holds offers from LSU, Ohio State, and Oregon, among others . His recruitment is gaining momentum, with 247Sports ranking him as the No. 1 linebacker and the No. 25 overall player in the 2027 class.
Jason Witten, now serving as the head coach at Liberty Christian, has been instrumental in his son’s development. Under his guidance, the team secured back-to-back TAPPS Division II state championships, with the 2023 season marking the school’s first unbeaten run . Jason’s experience and mentorship have undoubtedly played a role in shaping Cooper’s approach to the game.
The Witten family’s connection to Texas football runs deep. Jason Witten’s 17-season tenure with the Dallas Cowboys solidified his status as one of the greatest tight ends in NFL history. His accolades include 11 Pro Bowl selections and numerous franchise records . This legacy adds a layer of significance to Cooper’s recruitment, especially by in-state programs like Texas.
The Longhorns’ offer to Cooper is part of a broader strategy to secure elite talent early in the recruiting cycle. Head coach Steve Sarkisian and his staff are proactive in identifying and courting top prospects, aiming to build a formidable roster for future seasons. By targeting players like Cooper, Texas demonstrates its commitment to maintaining a competitive edge both regionally and nationally.
Cooper’s recruitment journey is still unfolding, with official visits and evaluations on the horizon. He is scheduled to attend a Texas Longhorns camp on June 1, providing an opportunity to engage directly with the coaching staff and experience the program’s environment firsthand . Such interactions are crucial in shaping a recruit’s decision-making process.
The Witten family’s presence in Texas, coupled with Jason’s coaching role at Liberty Christian, positions the Longhorns favorably in Cooper’s recruitment. The proximity allows for continued familial support and eases the transition to collegiate athletics. Moreover, the prospect of following in his father’s footsteps within the state’s football landscape may hold sentimental value.
As Cooper evaluates his options, factors such as program fit, development opportunities, and academic offerings will play pivotal roles. Texas’s emphasis on player development, evidenced by its track record of producing NFL talent, aligns with the aspirations of elite recruits. Additionally, the university’s resources and support systems cater to the holistic growth of student-athletes.
The recruitment of Cooper Witten is emblematic of the evolving dynamics in college football, where legacy, talent, and strategic planning intersect. For the Longhorns, securing his commitment would not only bolster their defensive prospects but also reinforce their standing as a premier destination for top-tier athletes. As the process unfolds, all eyes will be on Cooper’s decision, which holds implications for both his future and the trajectory of Texas football.
