Elijah Barnes on his commitment to the Longhorns: "Texas is going to the SEC and the train is rolling."
2025 Dallas (Texas) Skyline linebacker Elijah Barnes committed to the Longhorns on Friday on a visit to Texas, choosing Steve Sarkisian‘s program over LSU, Florida State, Ohio State, Texas A&M, SMU, Alabama, Oregon, USC, and Nebraska.
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Barnes explained the reason behind his commitment to Inside Texas.
“Texas is going to the SEC and the train is rolling,” Barnes said. “Texas is on the cusp of winning a national championship and they need more dogs to join, and I am one of those.”
Sarkisian and Johnny Nansen made it known to Barnes that he was needed in Austin.
“Just felt it was the right place and fit for me,” Barnes said.
The path to playing time was also a factor. Sarkisian and Nansen showed Barnes where there was an opportunity to play with guys leaving via the portal, graduation, and to the NFL. He saw an opportunity for early playing time.
Barnes told Inside Texas that Sark’s staff and style in recruiting him were very intentional. They were honest on where Barnes stood, how they could help him improve, and become a better player.
Also, off-the-field aspects helped the Horns. Barnes wants to study business and Texas checked that box.
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Barnes told IT he doesn’t plan to visit any other schools after his announcement. He believes in being 100 percent loyal to the school and that he can help build a strong class.
“I want to help build the class no and get more guys on board,” Barnes said.
Barnes is ranked as the No. 108 overall prospect, the No. 14 linebacker, and the No. 19 player in Texas according to the On3 Industry Ranking, a proprietary algorithm that compiles ratings and rankings from all four primary recruiting media services.
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The Longhorns moved up two spots to No. 7 in the On3 team recruiting rankings with Barnes’ commitment.
