Texas Longhorns Continue Building Strong Summer Recruiting Momentum with Key Commitments and Strategic Targets Across 2025 and 2026 Classes
The Texas Longhorns are surging with momentum on the recruiting trail this summer, capitalizing on the program’s growing national relevance and the brand power that accompanies their move to the Southeastern Conference. While the 2024 season is still weeks away, the staff in Austin has kept the spotlight fixed on the future, and the program’s performance in the recruiting sphere has shown they are not just preparing for the SEC—they’re ready to compete in it.
After a strong finish to the 2024 recruiting class that included a top-5 national ranking, Steve Sarkisian and his staff wasted no time attacking the next two cycles. This summer has marked an especially productive stretch, particularly in June, as Texas has hosted high-profile official visits, landed major commitments, and positioned themselves favorably with a host of elite talent in both the 2025 and 2026 classes.
Momentum really began to build following Texas’ elite summer recruiting events, such as their “Texas Heat” weekend, where dozens of blue-chip prospects descended upon Austin. Those visits weren’t just about flash—they were calculated efforts to showcase the alignment between coaching staff, facilities, NIL infrastructure, and player development opportunities. That alignment has translated into tangible results.
Perhaps the biggest victory for the Longhorns this summer came with the commitment of five-star wide receiver Kaliq Lockett. Ranked as one of the best receivers in the 2025 class, Lockett is a dynamic playmaker who brings size, speed, and route-running savvy to the table. His commitment gives Texas not only a marquee player but also a signal to other recruits that the Longhorns are assembling something special. It’s the kind of domino that can trigger more.
Lockett isn’t alone. Texas also landed four-star safety Alex January, a Dallas-area prospect who brings SEC-caliber size and instincts to the secondary. January’s recruitment was a fierce battle with Alabama and LSU, making the win even sweeter for the Longhorns. He adds depth and versatility to a defensive backfield that Sarkisian and defensive coordinator Pete Kwiatkowski are working hard to reinforce ahead of their SEC debut.
Offensively, the Longhorns have prioritized building depth along the offensive line. That mission took a step forward with the commitment of 2025 offensive tackle Lamont Rogers, a top-150 national recruit with offers from Georgia, Oklahoma, and Texas A&M. Rogers fits the mold of the big-bodied, athletic linemen Kyle Flood prefers in his system, and his addition helps reinforce the identity Texas is trying to establish in the trenches.
Quarterback recruiting remains the centerpiece of any elite program’s long-term vision, and while Texas already secured Trey Owens in the 2025 class, the focus has shifted to identifying and courting top talent for 2026. Among the early targets, five-star quarterback Dia Bell out of Florida and in-state standout Ryder Hernandez have both taken visits to Austin, with Bell reportedly feeling a strong connection to Sarkisian’s quarterback development philosophy. Whether Texas can close with either remains to be seen, but they’ve certainly made a strong early impression.
Recruiting is never done in a vacuum, and Texas’ efforts have to be viewed within the broader context of a loaded SEC landscape. Programs like Georgia, Alabama, and LSU have long dominated the national recruiting conversation. Yet, Texas is proving it belongs in that upper echelon. In fact, one of the most notable storylines of the summer has been Texas’ success in head-to-head battles with those very programs. Whether it’s flipping targets from rival schools or fending off aggressive late pushes, the Longhorns have shown that their pitch resonates—and that’s before a single SEC snap has been played.
What’s driving this momentum? Part of it is the vision Sarkisian has laid out for the program. Players are buying into the offensive scheme, the NFL pedigree of the coaching staff, and the opportunity to make an immediate impact in one of the most-watched conferences in the country. Another key component is NIL. Texas has quietly built one of the most robust and organized NIL programs in the country, and it’s paying dividends in recruiting battles. While not every decision is NIL-driven, it certainly plays a role when elite prospects weigh their options.
Another advantage Texas is leveraging is the strength of its in-state talent pool. The 2025 and 2026 classes in Texas are deep with blue-chip prospects, particularly at skill positions. The Longhorns have made it a priority to lock down the borders and prevent top talent from escaping to Alabama, Ohio State, or even Texas A&M. So far, the results are promising. Texas has built strong relationships with high school coaches across the state, and players are noticing the continuity and professionalism of the Texas staff.
One example is five-star linebacker Jonah Williams from Galveston, who has been trending toward Texas for weeks. Williams is the type of rangy, physical defender who could anchor a front seven for years. If the Longhorns can secure his commitment, it would be yet another sign that elite defensive talent views Texas as a destination. Similarly, four-star cornerback Dorian Brew is also high on Texas’ board and has been vocal about his admiration for the defensive scheme and the opportunity to play early.
Looking even further ahead, the 2026 cycle is already off to a fast start. Texas recently received a commitment from quarterback Kaden Durham, a dual-threat standout from Louisiana who many believe will rise in national rankings as the year goes on. Early evaluations on Durham compare him favorably to former Texas standout Vince Young, given his size, athleticism, and arm talent. Though it’s early, landing a quarterback of that caliber so soon into the cycle sets the tone and helps build class cohesion.
The coaching staff deserves credit for maintaining energy and consistency in the recruiting process. Sarkisian has assembled one of the best recruiting staffs in the country, including ace recruiters like Jeff Banks, Terry Joseph, and Tashard Choice. Each brings a specific skill set and regional expertise that has helped Texas identify and secure key targets. Whether it’s connecting with parents, breaking down film with recruits, or managing NIL expectations, this staff has demonstrated professionalism and adaptability.
As the summer rolls on, the Longhorns are expected to remain aggressive. July could bring additional commitments, especially with several top targets nearing decisions. Four-star edge rusher Zayden Walker is one to watch, as is offensive guard Ty Haywood. Both are trending toward Texas, and adding them would strengthen two of the most important position groups heading into SEC play.
There’s also the transfer portal component. While this summer has largely been focused on high school recruiting, Texas continues to monitor potential additions via the portal. Sarkisian has made it clear that the portal is not a crutch, but a tool to supplement areas of need. If the right fit becomes available—especially at defensive tackle or linebacker—expect Texas to act.
It’s worth noting that recruiting momentum is about more than just stars and rankings. It’s about building a foundation of players who fit the culture and compete at a high level. Sarkisian has made it a point to emphasize character, leadership, and work ethic during the recruiting process. This approach helps avoid busts and ensures that the locker room remains aligned with the program’s broader goals.
The 2024 season will play a role in determining how far this momentum carries into December and February. If Texas performs well in its first SEC campaign, the recruiting impact could be seismic. Wins over powerhouses like Alabama or Georgia would only bolster the Longhorns’ pitch and help close on elite talent. Conversely, any stumbles could raise questions, but the foundation laid this summer will provide insulation against temporary setbacks.
In many ways, this summer has been a proving ground for Texas as a program on the rise. The staff has shown it can compete with the best, the infrastructure is in place to support top talent, and the players are responding. The next step will be turning those commitments into contributors and ultimately into wins on Saturdays. But for now, Texas fans can take solace in the fact that the Longhorns are not just participating in the recruiting game—they’re winning it.
As July opens and fall camp approaches, the Longhorns find themselves in a position they’ve long sought: respected, feared, and in control of their recruiting destiny. Summer momentum is just the beginning, and the path to national contention begins with stacking elite classes. So far, Texas is doing just that, and there’s every reason to believe the best is yet to come.
