Texas just added another freak athlete to its 2023 class by way of Waco Connally 2023 S Jelani McDonald (6'2, 195), who committed to UT over offers from TCU and Oklahoma State. 

The four-star prospect checks in at No. 42 in the DCTF Hot 100. 

McDonald, a one-time Oklahoma State commit, backed off of his pledge to the Cowboys after receiving an offer from the Longhorns during the 2022 season. An official visit to Austin helped seal the deal. He sat in on a film session with Texas linebackers coach Jeff Choate and was impressed by Choate's ability to convey information effectively.

McDonald was hosted by Texas linebacker Jaylan Ford, who helped convince him about the positive direction of the program under Steve Sarkisian, and he thinks the Longhorns have a good chance of winning a national championship in the future. 

McDonald has been opening eyes with a strong performance during the All-American Bowl practices. The prep QB has been playing CB, but he likely ends up playing safety at the next level. 

Scouting Report: Has an impressive frame and length. He has been able to showcase his athleticism playing quarterback for Connally, but his aggressive nature will fit in naturally on the defensive side of the ball, and he has the skills and versatility to potentially play multiple positions at the collegiate level. Playing quarterback in high school can give a player a strong understanding of the game and the ability to make decisions on the field, which can be valuable skills for a safety (or linebacker).

As a senior, he was named the Texas District 11-4A Division II Offensive MVP, won the Texas 4A triple jump (48-2) title as a junior in 2022, and was a silver medalist in the long jump (6-4) in 2021.