Breaking down the Longhorns' 2026 recruiting class.

Class Grade: A

Texas is one of the nation's premier programs in recruiting and backed it up with a Top 10 finish nationally. It signed the top overall athlete in the Lone Star State and added another five-star QB to the room (see more below). Impact players will restock the coffers in Austin, but it also signed some fun talents from the Cen-Tex that could develop into fan favorites.

Three Key Additions

Who were the highest-rated signees or prospects who might come in and make a significant impact?

ATH Jermaine Bishop (5'11, 155) - Willis: The DCTX five-star is a rare three-phase playmaker who dominates as a defensive back, wide receiver, and return specialist. Once projected as a defender, his playmaking ability with the ball has changed that outlook. Words hardly capture his game. He plays with a big chip on his shoulder and has been starting at the highest levels in Texas for four varsity seasons.

QB Dia Bell (6'3, 215) - American Heritage (Fort Lauderdale, Florida): The Navy All-American and Elite 11 finalist is the son of former NBAer Raja Bell. Bell was the Gatorade Player of the Year in 2024 but missed most of his senior season with an injury. He's a dynamic mobile quarterback with growing arm talent who can make off-script plays.

OL John Turntine III (6'4, 270) - North Crowley: The state's top-rated interior offensive lineman has anchored one of 6A's best offenses. He pairs rare athleticism with technique, able to mirror defensive ends in pass protection and reach second- and third-level defenders with ease. His foot speed allows him to handle the most agile opponents, and his high IQ ensures he consistently makes the right reads and rarely commits mental errors.

Hometown Hero

What prospect was a fan favorite or a local hero who starred near the campus?

DE Jamarion Carlton (6'5, 260) - Temple: He turned heads as one of the first underclassmen to compete in the Navy All-American Bowl. A big, strong defensive end with an 82-inch wingspan, his length and relentless attacking style set him apart. He plays with leverage and uses his reach to control blockers effectively.

Super Sleeper

We pick one prospect on the commit list and explain how he might outplay his ranking in college.

RB Jett Walker (6'2, 215) - Georgetown: Flipped to Texas late in the recruiting process, but is easily one of the state's most physically imposing prospects. He is a tough middle-of-the-field runner with the ability to extend plays because he can break tackles and has good feet. Sneaky speed rounds out his game.