In an ongoing push to secure the best young talent for the Texas Longhorns, Quarterbacks Coach AJ Milwee recently took a scouting trip to St. Michael’s Catholic Academy in Austin to watch Gunner Rivers, a standout quarterback in the 2027 class. Rivers, known for his poised pocket presence, strong arm, and football intelligence, has been making waves on the high school circuit, garnering attention as one of the top QB prospects in the country. With Texas’ focus on establishing a powerhouse roster that’s built for sustained success, Milwee’s presence at Rivers’ game signals Texas’ intent to compete for top-tier quarterback talent in the coming years.
At just a sophomore in high school, Gunner Rivers has shown advanced skills and maturity that have positioned him as one of the top quarterback recruits in the 2027 class. Standing at 6’3” and weighing in around 190 pounds, Rivers has the physical attributes college programs look for in a quarterback. His stature, combined with his athleticism and natural throwing ability, make him a natural fit for a college system like Texas, where head coach Steve Sarkisian is known for maximizing quarterback talent.
Rivers has a reputation for delivering in high-pressure moments, reading defenses well, and making quick decisions under duress—qualities that set him apart from his peers. His ability to throw with precision, whether in short, intermediate, or deep passes, is remarkable for a player his age, and he has demonstrated a calmness that college coaches value in a field general. Coach Milwee’s presence at St. Michael’s is an indication that the Texas staff sees Rivers as a potential cornerstone for the program.
Since joining Texas in 2021, AJ Milwee has played a pivotal role in recruiting and developing quarterbacks. Known for his keen eye for quarterback talent, Milwee has been instrumental in targeting athletes who fit Texas’ offensive philosophy. By scouting Rivers early, Milwee is laying the groundwork for a potential commitment down the line, and his appearance at St. Michael’s will certainly be noticed by Rivers and his family.
Milwee’s approach to quarterback recruitment goes beyond physical skills. He looks for players who have leadership qualities, high football IQ, and a strong work ethic—traits that can elevate a talented athlete into a successful college quarterback. By getting to know Rivers early, Milwee can establish a rapport that will benefit both sides as Rivers progresses through his high school career. For Texas, securing a quarterback of Rivers’ caliber would provide continuity for the program, ensuring the Longhorns have the talent and depth needed to compete nationally.
Landing a commitment from Gunner Rivers would be a huge win for Texas. Quarterback recruiting has become highly competitive, and with programs across the country vying for top-tier talent, getting a head start on scouting the 2027 class is a smart move by the Longhorns. Rivers has the potential to become a transformative player in college football, and adding him to the Texas roster would solidify their commitment to high-caliber quarterback play in future seasons.
For Rivers, the opportunity to play for his home-state program could be a major draw. With Texas set to join the SEC soon, the Longhorns will need quarterbacks capable of competing against some of the nation’s best defenses. Rivers could step into a program with national exposure, strong fan support, and a dedicated coaching staff that knows how to develop NFL-ready quarterbacks.
College programs are increasingly turning their attention to younger players, particularly those with standout athletic abilities, like Gunner Rivers. Early scouting allows programs to assess not only the physical talent but also the character and growth potential of a player. For Texas, watching Rivers closely over the next few years will allow them to see his development, and if he continues to improve, they’ll have an advantage over other programs when it comes to his recruitment.
By building a relationship early, Milwee and the Texas staff can provide support and resources to help Rivers reach his full potential, while showing him the Longhorns’ long-term investment in his future. This kind of early attention is often instrumental in a player’s recruitment process, as it builds familiarity and trust with the coaching staff.
Rivers’ high school career is just beginning, and he has plenty of time to grow and refine his skills. As he continues to improve, he’ll undoubtedly attract even more interest from top programs nationwide. His decision, when the time comes, will likely hinge on finding a program that matches his playing style and provides the support necessary to reach his goals.
For Texas fans, the possibility of landing Gunner Rivers is an exciting one. His commitment to growth and improvement aligns with the values Coach Milwee and the Texas staff emphasize in their quarterback development process. While no commitment has been made, Texas’ early involvement in Rivers’ journey shows their commitment to maintaining a strong quarterback pipeline.
AJ Milwee’s visit to St. Michael’s underscores Texas’ proactive approach to recruiting and their recognition of Gunner Rivers’ potential to become an elite quarterback. With Texas joining the SEC soon, ensuring a steady flow of quarterback talent is essential to competing at the highest level. Gunner Rivers’ journey is still in its early stages, but Texas’ interest signals just how valuable he could become for a program aiming to reclaim its place among college football’s elite. For now, all eyes will be on Rivers as he continues to make his mark on the high school stage, with Texas keeping a close watch.