As National Signing Day 2025 approaches, the Texas Longhorns are poised to make a major statement, particularly on the defensive side of the ball. With head coach Steve Sarkisian and defensive coordinator Pete Kwiatkowski working tirelessly on the recruiting trail, the Longhorns have assembled one of the most impressive defensive recruiting classes in recent memory. The Class of 2025 is filled with high-caliber players who are not only expected to make an impact in Austin but also solidify Texas as a national championship contender in the coming years.
Here’s a closer look at the defensive recruits who have pledged their futures to the Longhorns and what they bring to the table.
1. Jeremiah Simmons – EDGE**
**Height/Weight:** 6’5”, 245 lbs
**Hometown:** Dallas, TX
**Rank:** 5-star
Simmons is a game-changing talent who has drawn comparisons to former Longhorn standout Joseph Ossai. A relentless pass rusher with elite speed off the edge, Simmons is known for his ability to disrupt plays in the backfield. His versatility allows him to drop into coverage when needed, making him a true three-down player.
Sarkisian praised Simmons as “the cornerstone” of the 2025 class, and rightfully so. With offers from Alabama, Georgia, and USC, landing Simmons was a massive win for the Longhorns.
2. Caleb Johnson – Linebacker**
**Height/Weight:** 6’3”, 230 lbs
**Hometown:** Houston, TX
**Rank:** 4-star
Johnson is the prototypical modern linebacker, combining speed and physicality. Known for his high football IQ, Johnson excels in diagnosing plays and reacting quickly. His sideline-to-sideline range and ability to cover tight ends and running backs make him a valuable asset in today’s game.
Johnson chose Texas over offers from Ohio State and Michigan, citing the Longhorns’ commitment to player development as a major factor in his decision.
*3. Marcus Washington – Defensive Tackle**
**Height/Weight:** 6’4”, 310 lbs
**Hometown:** San Antonio, TX
**Rank:** 4-star
Washington is a dominant force in the trenches, with the size and power to clog up running lanes and the quickness to pressure quarterbacks. His presence on the defensive line will give Texas a much-needed boost in stopping the run against top-tier competition in the SEC.
Known for his relentless motor, Washington has been a nightmare for offensive linemen at the high school level. He is expected to contribute early in his college career.
4. Xavier McCall – Cornerback**
**Height/Weight:** 6’2”, 190 lbs
**Hometown:** Austin, TX
**Rank:** 4-star
McCall is a shutdown corner who thrives in man-to-man coverage. With long arms and exceptional athleticism, he can match up against the best receivers in the country. His ball skills and ability to track the ball in the air make him a turnover machine.
McCall’s decision to stay close to home and play for Texas was a significant win for the Longhorns, especially given stiff competition from LSU and Florida.
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### **5. Jamal Price – Safety**
**Height/Weight:** 6’1”, 200 lbs
**Hometown:** Plano, TX
**Rank:** 4-star
Price is a hard-hitting safety with a knack for making plays. His instincts and ability to read the quarterback make him a ball hawk in the secondary. Price’s physicality and leadership on the field have drawn praise from scouts, and he’s expected to anchor the back end of Texas’ defense for years to come.
Price chose the Longhorns over offers from Notre Dame and Clemson, citing the program’s culture and vision as key factors in his decision.
With these defensive commits, the Texas Longhorns have positioned themselves as a team to watch in the SEC. Sarkisian and Kwiatkowski have emphasized the importance of building a defense capable of competing with the elite offenses in the conference, and this recruiting class reflects that vision.
The 2025 class not only addresses key areas of need but also brings in players with the talent and work ethic to make an immediate impact. As Texas prepares to transition fully into SEC play, this group of defensive recruits could be the foundation for sustained success.
National Signing Day is shaping up to be a celebration for Longhorns fans. The excitement surrounding these commitments underscores Texas’ return to prominence, and with the talent coming in, the future looks brighter than ever in Austin.
Mark your calendars for Wednesday, as these future Longhorns officially put pen to paper and solidify their place in one of the most promising recruiting classes in recent memory. Texas football is back, and the defensive recruits of 2025 are leading the charge.