National Signing Day is Feb. 3. We’ll take a look at each recruiting class from the 12 FBS football programs in Texas as the day approaches.

SMU

Rivals.com rank: 64^th

Overview

The turnaround won’t be quick for SMU and head coach Chad Morris. The former Lake Travis High School head coach and Clemson offensive coordinator took over a Mustangs program with very little talent. Morris’ team played better in 2015 than it had in the previous few seasons, but it’ll take a few recruiting classes before Morris’ team can compete in the AAC. SMU holds 23 commitments and is ranked 64^th in the country as a recruiting class in 2016. For comparison, SMU finished 82^nd in 2015 and 99^th in 2014. Morris gained commitments from two three-star players in defensive end Michael Badejo and wide receiver Brandon Benson. One of those 23 players – Aphonso Thomas from Van – is already on campus as an early-enrollee.

Strengths

The strength of the SMU class lies in sheer numbers and balance. Ten of the 23 commitments are on defense, and athlete Myles Duke could end up on defense. SMU hit every position except running back with multiple commitments, meaning an influx of talent will hit campus this summer for every position group. The Mustangs have commitments from four defensive backs, four defensive linemen and two linebackers. Defensive end is the strength of the defense, as Badejo is joined by talented players like Demerick Gary, Ken McLaurin and Patrick Jones.

Offensively, Benson and Thomas headline the class. Benson couldn’t be covered in Waco La Vega’s state championship victory. He’s not the tallest wide receiver at 6-foot, but uses his body well to get open and is really quick coming in and out of breaks. SMU also has commitments from wide receivers Blake Carlisle and Joshua Shelmire to go along with five offensive line commits, two quarterbacks, a running back and tight end.

Needs

SMU covered all its bases in the 2016 class. If room still exists, SMU would take another playmaker on offense and a defensive tackle. The defensive tackle position is the only weak area in the class, but that could change because Jones and McLaurin could end up growing out of defensive end to play defensive tackle.

Top Player

Badejo hails from Timberview High School in Mansfield. The 6-foot-2, 220-pound defensive end should be an impact player at SMU as a true freshman because of his athleticism as a pass rusher. He’ll need a year in the weight room before he’s a true three-down defensive end, but SMU can use his talents on passing downs from day one. He chose to stay close to home over offers from P5 programs like Pittsburgh, Illinois and Washington. Badejo also had an offer from Houston. Keeping him near home after another losing season was a significant win for Morris.