Kingwood 2027 linebacker Cade Haug (6’1, 220) committed to Texas on Monday, choosing the Longhorns over Houston, SMU, Arizona State, Arkansas, Nebraska, North Carolina, Utah and more.

Texas offered Haug just five days before his commitment.

“We talked about it as a family, and it was one of the biggest days of my life, Haug said. “It was a game-changer in my recruitment and in my outlook on where I was going to end up.”

Prior to the ‘Horns offer, Houston had been trending in his recruitment.

“We were heavy on Houston and were close to honing in on that, but then Coach (Johnny) Nansen (Co-Defensive Coordinator/LB) called and made it official,” Haug reported. “That brought an overall sense of gratitude. I’m blessed to receive that offer, and all glory to God for that. I’m just super excited that it happened in my life and thankful that all the hard work paid off.”

A recent visit to Austin and conversations with the Texas staff helped Haug feel comfortable with making a quick decision.

“It was almost a no-brainer for me,” Haug said. “When we walked in, it felt like home. I was greeted as more than just a football player. They brought me in like family, so immediately I knew that was my place.”

“It checked every box for me. It’s a great program. You’re competing for a national championship every year. You’re playing with the best of the best in the SEC. I’m playing alongside guys like Tyler Atkinson, who just committed in 2026. I remember watching him when I was younger and thinking how cool it would be to play with someone like that. Now I’m going to be right beside him in practice and games. The level of coaching with Coach Nansen, Coach (Will) Muschamp (Defensive Coordinator), and Coach Sark (Texas Head Coach Steve Sarkisian) is elite. After hearing their plan for me and what we’re going to do moving forward, I knew instantly that it was home.”

Meeting new UT defensive coordinator Will Muschamp played a major role, and his resume stood out immediately.

“We sat down, and the first thing that caught our eye was all his rings,” Haug said. “You’re a little starstruck at that moment. You see that and think, this dude is legit. Obviously, if you’re coaching at that level, you’re legit, but his track record really stood out. Working with Kirby Smart and being part of championship staffs played a big role. You want to play for a coach who has a history of winning.

“After hearing about his accolades, his plan, and just his defensive mind, it was really cool to sit down and talk ball with him. He has an extensive understanding of the game, and I can’t say enough good things about that.

Haug expects to play “linebacker in the middle of the field” and understands his work is just getting started.

“I play very instinctual and very fast,” Haug explained. “There’s no hesitation in my game. It’s hair on fire. I’m trying to make every play I can physically get to. I take pride in the energy I play with, the speed, and the excitement I bring to my team. If you watch my tape or my games, I’m excited all the time. I’m celebrating, jumping around, and having fun. I think that’s one of the things that makes me noticeable and a leader on my high school team, and I want to bring that same excitement, violence, and passion for the game to the university.”

“Obviously, nothing is handed to you. I have to come in my freshman year and put my sweat in the bucket. They’re hoping I can come in and make an impact early. I’m ten toes down and grinding to earn a starting spot and hopefully pursue a national championship and top-level success.”

“I see someone who wants to make an impact and make it as early as possible,” Haug continued. “My goal is to be a freshman All-American. I want to be an All-American, all-conference, and make it to the NFL. I want to get drafted. Those are the goals, and I see myself competing every single day to make that happen.”

“That work starts immediately. I went to a workout about 30 minutes after I committed. Nothing stops because I committed. Every day is work. It’s putting in one more percent than everyone else. I know this opportunity isn’t going to be handed to me. I’m going to have to work for it. Keeping my head down, grinding, and letting the work pay off is very important to me. I want to earn every accolade I can.”

Texas has also offered Haug’s Kingwood teammate, OT Kennedy Brown, one of the state’s five most heavily offered prospects. Haug said he is “chipping away” in hopes of remaining teammates in Austin.

“That’s my brother,” Haug said. We played against each other in middle school, and we talk all the time about football and life outside of football.”

“We talk about recruiting sometimes, but since both of our recruitments are always moving, we try to stay away from that side of things when we talk. I’ve definitely mentioned that I want him to come with me. He hasn’t given me a firm answer, but I’m going to keep chipping away and see if I can get him to join me.”

Over the past three seasons, Haug has been one of the most productive linebackers in Texas, collecting 323 tackles, 24 TFLs and six sacks. He earned 23-6A First-Team All-District honors.