ITYT: What Hayward Howard brings to the Longhorns
Texas just landed a commitment from 4-star cornerback Hayward Howard Jr., a good piece for the 2026 class. We break down what his game brings to the secondary.
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Texas Longhorns have secured their first defensive commitment in the 2026 class with Hayward Howard Jr., a four-star cornerback from Edna Karr High School in New Orleans.
Despite Terry Joseph’s departure to the NFL, new coach Mark Orphey continued the recruitment process and successfully landed Howard.
Howard felt a strong cultural connection in Austin due to the presence of other Louisiana players like Wardell Mack and Arch Manning, which influenced his decision.
Standing at 6’2.5″ and weighing around 170 lbs, Howard fits the mold Texas seeks in a defensive back: tall, rangy, and scheme-ready.
He played a crucial role in Edna Karr’s undefeated season and their state championship win, proving his value in high-stakes games.
Howard has a football pedigree, with his father being a former Ole Miss defensive lineman, indicating strong athletic genetics.
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Texas plans to recruit 3 to 4 cornerbacks in this class, targeting additional talents like Jalen Lott, Jermaine Bishop, and Samari Matthews—all of whom offer versatility and come from football-rich backgrounds.
Howard’s commitment is the first major success for Mark Orphey and reflects a strong start to both his coaching stint and the 2026 recruiting cycle.
The ability to secure a player like Howard over traditional powerhouses such as LSU, Florida State, and Miami suggests Texas is expanding its recruiting influence, particularly in Louisiana.
The coaching staff values not only Howard’s athletic attributes but also his cultural and schematic fit within the team’s broader defensive vision.
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