In an impressive recruitment win, the University of Texas has secured a commitment from James Johnson, a top defensive tackle from Miami (Fla.) Northwestern. This marks the fourth defensive tackle the Longhorns have recruited from the Southeast in the 2026 class, a strategy that has proven fruitful for the program.
Johnson, who is highly rated as Rivals’ No. 1 defensive tackle and ranked as the No. 42 overall prospect, previously committed to Georgia before flipping to Texas. His decision to turn to the Longhorns represents a significant victory over the Bulldogs, who initially gained his commitment in June. Additionally, Texas was able to compete effectively against the hometown Miami Hurricanes, who had their own advantageous position in the recruitment.
Johnson’s official visit to Texas last week made a lasting impact. He expressed a strong feeling of being wanted by head coach Steve Sarkisian and his staff. “They really showed me a lot more this time compared to my last visit. It felt like they really want me here,” Johnson stated. He also highlighted the development opportunities that Texas offers, which align with his goals.
A crucial factor in Johnson’s commitment was the influence of Texas defensive tackles coach Kenny Baker. Johnson praised Baker’s coaching style, noting, “He really wants to coach me. I love the way he teaches and breaks things down.” This detailed approach and the insights into the defensive strategies were influential in Johnson’s decision-making process.
In addition to Johnson, Texas has recruited three other defensive tackles for their 2026 class, further strengthening their defensive line for the future. The Longhorns’ commitment to attracting talent from the Southeast is expected to have positive consequences for their upcoming seasons.
This significant addition to the Texas roster demonstrates the program’s commitment to building a strong defensive front and showcases their ability to compete at the highest levels in college football recruitment.