Class of 2026 IOL Jerald “JJ” Mays has Committed to Texas Tech

In a significant recruiting win for Texas Tech football, the Red Raiders have landed a major commitment from one of the top interior offensive linemen in the country. Jerald “JJ” Mays, a dominant Class of 2026 IOL prospect, has officially pledged his commitment to Texas Tech, choosing the Red Raiders over a host of powerhouse programs including Oklahoma, Texas A&M, and LSU.

Mays, a 6-foot-4, 305-pound mauler out of Lancaster High School in Texas, has long been considered one of the premier trench warriors in his class. With a rare combination of power, athleticism, and technical refinement for a high school junior, Mays’ commitment sends a clear message to the rest of the Big 12 and beyond: Texas Tech is serious about building a dominant offensive line for the future.

A Homegrown Star

JJ Mays has been on recruiting radars since his sophomore year, and for good reason. He possesses the kind of physicality that jumps off the screen on tape. Whether he’s pancaking defenders in run-blocking schemes or anchoring against interior pass rushers, Mays exhibits a polish and motor that are well beyond his years. He has been a key anchor for a Lancaster program known for producing high-level talent, and he’s continued to elevate his game at every stage.

His footwork and hand placement are remarkably consistent, and he plays with a nasty streak that coaches at the next level crave. At camps and showcases, he routinely impressed scouts with his ability to handle elite defensive line prospects, and his frame and strength make him an ideal candidate to play early in his college career if needed.

Why Texas Tech?

Texas Tech’s staff, led by head coach Joey McGuire and offensive line coach Stephen Hamby, made Mays a top priority early in the recruiting cycle. The Red Raiders’ ability to build strong relationships with JJ and his family, as well as present a clear vision for his development, played a key role in his decision.

“From the beginning, Texas Tech made me feel like a top priority,” Mays said in his commitment announcement. “Coach McGuire and Coach Hamby were real with me the whole way. They believe in me, and I believe in what they’re building in Lubbock.”

Mays also highlighted the opportunity to play in the Big 12, the program’s rising momentum, and the atmosphere on his multiple visits to campus as major factors in his choice. “It just felt like home,” he added.

Big Win for the Red Raiders

For Texas Tech, the addition of JJ Mays is more than just landing another blue-chip prospect — it’s a statement. McGuire has been vocal about his mission to dominate recruiting within the state of Texas, and Mays’ commitment continues a trend of elite in-state talent choosing to stay home and build something special in Lubbock.

This is the type of win that not only helps bolster the offensive line room, but also sends a message to other top recruits in the 2026 class: Texas Tech is a legitimate destination for elite talent. With Mays now in the fold, the Red Raiders are expected to gain even more momentum as they look to add top-tier skill and defensive players to complement their growing offensive line.

A Leader in the 2026 Class

Mays is expected to be a cornerstone of Texas Tech’s 2026 recruiting class, both on the field and off. Known for his work ethic and leadership qualities, Mays has expressed interest in helping recruit other elite players to Lubbock.

“I want to help build something special,” Mays said. “I’m going to be talking to guys, telling them what we’re building and how we’re going to change the game at Tech.”

Texas Tech’s 2026 class is already shaping up to be one of the strongest in recent memory, and with Mays’ commitment, it’s safe to say the Red Raiders are on a mission to build a roster that can compete for Big 12 titles and beyond.

Looking Ahead

While there’s still plenty of time before the Class of 2026 puts pen to paper on signing day, Mays’ commitment gives Texas Tech fans every reason to be optimistic about the future of their offensive line. His presence brings credibility, power, and vision to the trenches — and could help transform the Red Raiders’ offensive identity in the years to come.