Hook ‘Em: The Longhorns have signed top-5 classes every year under Steve Sarkisian and inked Rivals’ No. 1 recruiting class in 2025🤘 Texas is trending up with several top targets and is in line for another elite haul in 2026:

Texas Longhorns Build Recruiting Dynasty Under Steve Sarkisian with No. 1 Class in 2025 and Momentum for 2026

The Texas Longhorns have long been one of college football’s most storied programs, and under head coach Steve Sarkisian, they are building a recruiting dynasty that is poised to restore the program to national prominence. With top-five recruiting classes every year since Sarkisian’s arrival and Rivals’ No. 1 overall recruiting class for 2025, the Longhorns are trending upward at a rapid pace. Even more impressive, Texas is already making waves for the 2026 cycle, positioning itself for another elite haul.

Sarkisian’s recruiting success has injected new life into the program, giving Longhorns fans hope that Texas is not only “back” but here to stay.

Sarkisian’s Recruiting Masterclass

Since being hired in January 2021, Steve Sarkisian has made recruiting top talent a cornerstone of his tenure. Known for his offensive mind and player development skills, Sarkisian has leveraged Texas’ resources, history, and location to attract some of the best high school talent in the country.

In his first full recruiting cycle in 2022, Sarkisian secured the nation’s No. 5 class, headlined by five-star offensive tackle Kelvin Banks and quarterback Maalik Murphy. This success continued in 2023 and 2024, with top-five classes each year, bringing in game-changing talents like Arch Manning, Johntay Cook II, and Anthony Hill Jr.

The crown jewel of Sarkisian’s recruiting efforts came with the 2025 class, where Texas landed Rivals’ No. 1 overall class. This class is loaded with elite talent across all positions, highlighting Sarkisian’s ability to recruit both locally and nationally.

2025 Class: The Best in the Nation

The 2025 recruiting class is arguably Texas’ most impressive haul in recent memory. The Longhorns secured commitments from several five-star recruits and top-rated four-stars, addressing key needs and adding depth across the board.

Some of the standout players in the 2025 class include:

• Julian Lewis (QB): The five-star quarterback from Georgia is considered the top QB prospect in the nation. Lewis has drawn comparisons to some of the best to ever play the position at the college level and is expected to be a future star in Austin.
• Zion Williams (WR): Hailing from California, Williams is a dynamic playmaker with elite speed and hands. He will provide immediate impact in the Longhorns’ high-powered offense.
• David Simmons (LB): A hard-hitting linebacker from Houston, Simmons brings toughness and versatility to the defense. He has the potential to be a leader for Texas’ defense in the coming years.
• Marcus Johnson (OT): A towering offensive tackle from Dallas, Johnson will help solidify the Longhorns’ offensive line for years to come, protecting the quarterback and opening lanes for the run game.

This class is not only talented but balanced, with top recruits on both sides of the ball. Sarkisian and his staff have done an outstanding job of identifying and securing commitments from players who fit their system and culture.

The Texas Advantage: NIL, Facilities, and Tradition

One of the biggest factors in Texas’ recruiting success under Sarkisian has been the program’s ability to leverage its advantages in the modern era of college football. The NIL (Name, Image, and Likeness) landscape has changed recruiting, and Texas has been at the forefront, offering top prospects significant opportunities to build their personal brands.

The Longhorns’ facilities are also among the best in the country, with constant upgrades ensuring that players have access to state-of-the-art training and recovery resources. Additionally, the rich tradition of Texas football, highlighted by national championships, legendary players, and passionate fans, remains a major draw for recruits.

Sarkisian’s NFL experience and offensive prowess have also played a critical role in recruiting, especially for offensive skill players who see Texas as a stepping stone to the professional ranks.

Momentum for 2026: Another Elite Haul on the Horizon

While the 2025 class is already making headlines, Texas is not slowing down. The Longhorns are trending up with several top targets in the 2026 recruiting cycle and are in line for another elite class.

Early targets for the 2026 class include:

• Chris Carter (RB): A five-star running back from Louisiana, Carter is one of the most explosive playmakers in the country. Texas is currently the favorite to land him, and he would be a huge addition to the Longhorns’ backfield.
• James Fulton (CB): A lockdown corner from Florida, Fulton has elite speed and instincts. Texas is battling several SEC programs for his commitment, but the Longhorns are in a strong position.
• Daniel Matthews (DE): A dominant edge rusher from Texas, Matthews has already built a strong relationship with Sarkisian’s staff. Keeping top in-state talent like Matthews is crucial for Texas’ continued success.

Sarkisian and his staff have laid the groundwork early, and Texas is expected to be a major player in the 2026 recruiting cycle. The Longhorns’ recruiting strategy focuses on building relationships early, and their recent success has only made the program more attractive to top prospects.

Building for the Future: Longhorns’ Bright Outlook

With the No. 1 class in 2025 and strong momentum for 2026, the Texas Longhorns are building a foundation for sustained success. Sarkisian’s recruiting prowess, combined with the program’s resources and tradition, has Texas positioned as a perennial contender in the SEC and on the national stage.

The Longhorns’ move to the SEC in 2024 adds another layer of excitement and challenge. Competing in the nation’s toughest conference will test Texas, but with the talent Sarkisian is bringing in, the Longhorns are more than ready.

Fans in Austin have every reason to be excited. The future of Texas football is brighter than it has been in years, and under Steve Sarkisian, the Longhorns are not just aiming to be “back” — they’re aiming to stay on top.

Hook ’em.