Breaking down SMU's 2026 recruiting class, featuring standout signees Christian Rhodes, Drew Evers and X'Zavier Barnett.

Class Grade: A

SMU finishes with a Top 30 class nationally, building off of a playoff appearance in 2024. Most of the signings are in-state stars, but SMU continues to show an ability to go outside of the state when needed to secure recruits at positions of need. With over 20 high school signees, this class has signified a return to building roster depth with higher-quality developmental prospects, with room to add essential pieces in the transfer portal.

Three Key Additions

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

RB Christian Rhodes (6'1, 200) - Lake Highlands: Rhodes stacked back-to-back 1,000-yard seasons on his way to being named a DCTX four-star and locking down his spot as the top-rated signing in the class. He is a three-down back who runs hard between the tackles and catches the ball out of the backfield.

OL Drew Evers (6'3.5, 285) - Flower Mound: This was one of the big surprises as the four-star picked SMU over Texas A&M, where he had strong family ties. Ohio State was also a factor in his recruitment. Evers' versatility is one of his biggest strengths as he could play anywhere on the offensive front.

ATH X'Zavier Barnett (6'1, 190) - Yoakum: Barnett was the first commitment in the class and a wire-to-wire DCTX four-star; as a result, his pledge sometimes flew under the radar. He dominated every season on the varsity, including leading Yoakum to its best season since 2018.

Hometown Hero

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

CB Ryan Gilbert II (5'10.5, 180) - North Forney: Gilbert chose SMU in a special DCTX commitment ceremony at North Forney. A highly pursued prospect, he has the ability to lock down an opponent's top receiving threat and plays with undeniable swagger and confidence.

Super Sleeper

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

OL Toa Katoa (6'3.5, 365) - Euless Trinity: You won't find a more dominant prospect than Katoa, who played all four years on varsity for the Trojans and improved every season. A true interior offensive lineman, he commands respect with his size and power, striking fear into every defender across from him.