Lots of Texas 2025 commits have made deep playoff runs

Steve Sarkisian has firmly established a winning culture in Austin, with recruiting as the cornerstone of Texas’ resurgence. He focuses on bringing in athletes who have not only endured adversity but also excelled in high-pressure, high-stakes situations. These experiences foster mental toughness and prepare players to perform at their best when it matters most—late in the season against elite competition.

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Let’s take a closer look at the 2025 Texas commits who are still competing deep into their playoffs, fighting for state championships.

Jonathan Cunningham, LB, Fort Worth (Texas) North Crowley

Jonathan Cunningham leads a North Crowley program that mirrors Texas in its journey of being rebuilt into a winning powerhouse. Cunningham exemplifies dedication, grit, and perseverance. His team faces Coppell today as they push toward their state championship aspirations.

Lance Jackson, EDGE, Texarkana (Texas) Pleasant Grove

Lance Jackson comes from a tradition-rich program with multiple state titles. Accustomed to carrying the weight of being a target for opponents, Jackson’s experience in pressure-packed games has prepared him for the championship expectations at Texas. Although Texarkana Pleasant Grove fell to Carthage last night, Jackson’s battle-tested mindset will translate well at the next level.

John Mills, OL, San Francisco (Calif.) St. Ignatius Prep

John Mills recently led his team to a championship, showcasing his ability to prioritize and focus on achieving critical goals. When asked last week about visiting Texas during their matchup against Kentucky, Mills explained that his championship run required his full attention. Now, with that goal accomplished, Mills turns his focus to Austin and looks forward to contributing to the Longhorns’ success.

Jackson Christian, OL, Port Neches (Texas) Port Neches-Groves

Jackson Christian knows what it takes to chase and defend a championship. After falling short two years ago, his team won the state title last year and is back in contention this season, defeating a tough Texarkana Texas High team last night. Christian embodies the resilience and work ethic Texas needs on the offensive line.

Caleb Chester, CB, Missouri City (Texas) Fort Bend Marshall

Caleb Chester comes from Fort Bend Marshall, a program that routinely makes deep playoff runs. Although they narrowly lost to Iowa Colony last night, Chester’s experience in high-pressure games will make him an asset in the Longhorns’ secondary.

Josiah Sharma, DT, Folsom (Calif.)

Josiah Sharma and the Folsom Bulldogs face Oak Ridge today, fighting to advance to their championship game. Sharma’s ability to rise to the occasion under intense pressure reflects the type of player Texas is building its defensive line around.

Myron Charles, DT, Port Charlotte (Fla.)

Myron Charles and Port Charlotte narrowly lost to a talented Naples team last night. Despite the loss, Charles’ playoff experience and ability to thrive in high-stakes moments will add depth to Texas’ defensive front.

Nick Brooks, OL, Loganville (Ga.) Grayson

Nick Brooks is part of a powerhouse program in Georgia with multiple state titles. The Grayson Rams continued their championship pursuit last night, and Brooks thrives under the immense pressure of being a leader on a team with a target on its back. He will bring that same mentality to Texas.

Emaree Winston, TE, Calhoun (Ga.)

Emaree Winston and the Calhoun Yellow Jackets are one game away from competing for a state title in Georgia. Winston’s ability to perform in a highly competitive environment will translate seamlessly to the demands of playing tight end in Sark’s offense.

Rickey Stewart, RB, Tyler (Texas) Chapel Hill

The Tyler Chapel Hill Bulldogs, one of East Texas’ premier programs, defeated Stafford last night to advance in the playoffs. With three state title appearances in four years within reach, Texas is adding a running back in Stewart who knows how to shine on the biggest stage.

KJ Lacey, QB, Saraland (Ala.)

KJ Lacey leads the undefeated Saraland Spartans, who secured their place in the state title game after defeating Pike Road last night. At 13-0, Lacey has proven his leadership and ability to excel in pressure-packed situations, setting him up for success at Texas.

Daylan McCutcheon, WR, Lucas (Texas) Lovejoy

Dylan McCutcheon and the Lovejoy Leopards defeated defending state champion Anna last night. McCutcheon’s knack for stepping up in clutch moments will make him a reliable playmaker for the Longhorns.

Zelus Hicks, S, Carrollton (Ga.)

Zelus Hicks and the undefeated Carrollton Bulldogs are just one game away from a state title. They could potentially face fellow Texas commits Joseph Mbatchou and Nick Brooks and the Grayson Rams in the championship. Hicks’ ability to consistently perform against elite competition prepares him well for the challenges of college football.

Joseph Mbatchou, DT, Loganville (Ga.) Grayson

Joseph Mbatchou joins Nick Brooks as part of a championship-tested Grayson Rams program. With a history of winning, Mbatchou brings a wealth of experience in high-pressure games, making him an exciting addition to Texas’ defensive line.

Graceson Littleton, CB, Tampa (Fla.) Wiregrass Ranch

Littleton and the Wiregrass Ranch Bulls reached the state semifinals but came up short last night. Competing in a division filled with elite programs like Texas commit WR Jaime Ffrench and top target LB Kellen Wiley, Littleton’s experience will serve him well in Austin.

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Texas’ 2025 recruiting class is packed with athletes who have excelled in high-stakes environments. Their ability to rise to the occasion when the pressure is on will play a vital role in continuing the championship legacy being built by Sarkisian in Austin.