2027 4-star LB Taven Epps commits to Texas: 'It feels like home'

Before moving to southern California four years ago, Taven Epps lived in Texas. After the four-star linebacker finishes his high school career out at Tustin (Calif.), he plans to move back to the Lone Star State. The No. 61 prospect in the 2027 On3 Industry Ranking has committed to the Texas Longhorns.

“Every time I have been there, it has felt like family,” Epps told On3. “I visited last spring, then for a game and I was back last weekend and it felt the same each time. It is like I am a player on the team and already connected with the coaches. The coaches really want me there and how I feel when I am there was big in my commitment.”

Over 30 schools have already offered the 6-foot-4, 210-pound four-star UCLA and USC were two more schools high on his list.

Epps still has family all over Texas. Family was a part of this decision too.

“I really wanted to see how my mom and dad felt. They were on the visit with me Saturday and I have been liking Texas for a while, so I wanted to see what they thought. We talked about it on the visit, they liked it like I did and I made my decision.

“Texas has great history, they have tradition, they offer a great education and I like their style of play. It is a great place, a great program and it just feels like home for me.”

Linebackers coach Johnny Nansen got the news first. The two spent a lot of time together on this last visit and they are building a strong relationship.

“I like coach Nansen a lot. He reminds me of coach Hawkins at my school because he is straight forward and honest. I saw hom coach with energy and intensity and I like that too. He is a coach I can trust, I know he likes me and we have a good connection.”

There is still over 19 months until Epps can sign with a college, but having family in Texas, knowing the type of program he is going into and knowing the coaches he will get to play for has him excited about his future when that time comes.

“Texas is a great place,” Epps said. “The crowd is loud on game day, the coaches work hard and the people and the culture are right for me. I have been there, I have lived there and it will be great to get back.”