Texas trending for 4-star EDGE Zina Umeozulu after official visit

Steve Sarkisian and Texas are on a tear in the month of June after a slow start to the 2024 cycle. Five of Texas’ seven currently committed players in the class pledged to the Longhorns this month. And among those is the nation’s No. 2 running back, IMG Academy’s Jerrick Gibson.

The Longhorns are also trending for another top 2024 target: Allen (Texas) four-star EDGE Zina Umeozulu, according to the On3 Recruiting Prediction Machine (RPM).

InsideTexas.com recruiting analyst Gerry Hamilton logged an expert prediction with a confidence level of 75% for the Longhorns to land the four-star edge rusher.

“All the intel received following the conclusion of the official visit process for Umeozulu was that Texas only increased the lead,” Hamilton wrote in making his prediction. “Not only does Zina Umeozulu have an up close understanding and feel for the program with his brother in Austin, but the Longhorn defensive staff showed the DFW area EDGE prospect exactly how he would fit into the scheme and how he will be developed. Defensive coordinator Pete Kwiatkowski and linebackers coach Jeff Choate illustrated how Umeozulu could ascend at Texas in the scheme.”

Umeozulu took his official visit to Texas last weekend, and following Hamilton’s pick, Texas currently has an 86.3% chance to receive his commitment.

Zina Umeozulu was in Austin over the weekend

Umeozulu’s brother, Neto Umeozulu, is an offensive lineman in his second season with the Longhorns. Zina Umeozulu told Inside Texas that what stood out on his visit was learning about the Longhorns’ defensive scheme and culture.

“My brother, Neto, was my host but I was pretty much with everybody at certain points,” Umeozulu told Inside Texas. “The players gave me a good insight on what it would be like when/if I go there.”

The 6-foot-4.5, 225-pounder is nation’s No. 200 overall prospect and No. 13 EDGE, according to the On3 Industry Ranking, a weighted average that utilizes all four major recruiting media companies. He is also the No. 39 player in Texas.

Umeozulu took an official visit to Oklahoma the week before his trip to Austin. He took unofficial visits to Texas, Oklahoma, Texas A&M, SMU and Oregon throughout the spring.