4-star safety Kade Phillips commits to Texas: ‘They’re going to compete for championships’

Missouri City (Texas) Hightower four-star safety Kade Phillips took official visits to Baylor (April 26-28), LSU (June 14-16) and Texas (June 21-23). The Longhorns and Tigers eventually separated themselves from the Bears and went “back and forth” as the leader for the 6-foot-0.5, 185-pound defensive back. 

Texas getting Phillips’ last official made a big impact on him. He was impressed by what the Longhorns offered both on the field and in the classroom, along with the city of Austin and Texas’ support of their players in life after football. Phillips soon realized that he wanted to play for the Longhorns following his official visit and announced his commitment to the SEC program on Saturday. 

“I chose Texas because of the opportunities they have for me,” Phillips told On3. “Being around Austin and all the successful people there was big for me. I like how Texas sees me as versatile and someone who can play multiple positions, so they can find a way to get me on the field as fast as possible. Then, I like the family feeling I get from UT. It’s from all the staff and all of the coaches, including coach Steve Sarkisian. They are always checking in on me every day.” 

Phillips believes that Texas is headed for ‘big things’

Phillips, who has visited Texas between four and five times, knew he was pledging to the Longhorns last weekend. Sarkisian and his staff recruited him to play safety, but shared that they may move him to cornerback or nickelback if necessary. 

The No. 20 player in The Lone Star State shared that Texas’ coaches were “really excited” when he told them he was choosing the Longhorns. Phillips is looking forward to being a part of Texas’ future after the program won the Big 12 title and made the College Football Playoff last season. 

“They’re going to compete for championships in the coming years,” said Phillips, the No. 105 overall prospect and No. 12 safety in the 2025 On300. “Coach Sarkisian is going to take Texas to big places and do big things.” 

Texas’ coaches played a key role in Phillips’ decision

Phillips built strong connections with not only Texas’ players, but also the Longhorns’ coaches. The four-star and Sarkisian have already developed a “really good” relationship. 

Texas’ head man speaks with Phillips over the phone and FaceTime. He has also talked with Phillips’ parents. 

“He’s doing big things with the program,” Phillips said. “Off the field, he’s always around. Even during my OV, he was around. I saw him everywhere I went. I didn’t see the head coach too much at some other schools that I visited, but with coach Sarkisian, he’s always there. He’s always talking and having a good time.” 

Safeties coach Blake Gideon was Phillips’ lead recruiter at Texas. The talented defender is looking forward to learning from the Longhorns assistant once he arrives in Austin. 

“Me and coach Gideon have a good relationship,” Phillips said. “He’s always keeping it real with me and is always going to be honest with you. We spent a lot of time together and started building that bond. He’s a great coach and a great guy on and off the field.”