5-star EDGE Lance Jackson signs with Texas Longhorns

Texarkana (Texas) Pleasant Grove five-star EDGE Lance Jackson has signed with Texas.

The 6-foot-5.25, 270-pounder is the No. 25 overall prospect and No. 2 EDGE in the 2025 cycle, according to the On3 Industry Ranking, a weighted average that utilizes all four major recruiting media companies. He’s also the No. 8 player in Texas.

On3 ranks Jackson higher than other recruiting services. He checks in as the No. 8 recruit, No. 2 EDGE and No. 3 player in the Lone Star State, per the 2025 On300.

Jackson’s commitment has been rock-solid since he chose the in-state SEC program on Jan. 21. Head coach Steve Sarkisian and defensive coordinator Pete Kwiatkowski were both instrumental in locking down Jackson last winter.

“I just know they will get me to my full potential,” Jackson told On3. “I love the way coach PK and coach Sark coach. Also,  I think PK is just a good dude. When my brother was getting recruited by him when he was at Washington it was one of his favorite recruiters as well. I love the town of Austin and just know it’s where I want to be.”

On3 has been high on Jackson for the entire 2025 cycle. He’s one of four five-stars in the mix for the Longhorns.

Lance Jackson Scouting Summary

On3’s scouting and rankings team writes this of Jackson as a prospect:

“First off the bus” prospect who pairs outstanding size, athleticism and effort level to be one of the top EDGE prospects in the 2025 cycle. Measured in at 6-foot-5.25, 270 pounds at the On3 Elite Series prior to his senior season. Has plus length with 34-inch arms to go with 10-inch hands. Excellent weight distribution throughout his frame and looks to be a lean 270. Lines up as a defensive end and tight end for his high school. Dominant off the edge as a senior, tallying over 20 tackles for loss and double-digit sacks. Shows high level initial quickness. Continued to add flexibility as a senior. Dips his shoulder and bends the edge very well for such a big defensive end. Runs the hoop and finishes behind the line of scrimmage at a high rate.

…Length shows up in implementing a straight arm move. Has the capability to walk offensive tackles back to the quarterback with speed-to-power. An effective edge setter with his size and strength. Plays with a high effort level on defense. Shows his athleticism as a tight end, with the ability to stretch the seam. Physical as a blocker. Bigger than most EDGE prospects, opening up the possibility that he could outgrow the position. Will benefit from full-time focus on defense once he gets to college. Physical traits and play personality translate to all levels and point to a high upside as a potential early NFL Draft pick.”