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Texas in Top 4 for Samari Matthews

by:Charlie Williams•05/12/25
Samari Matthews
Samari Matthews (Justin Wells/Inside Texas)

2026 defensive back Samari Matthews released his top four schools, and Texas made the cut.

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The Longhorns were the last of the finalists to offer, but Matthews had been waiting on that Texas offer. He visited Austin on April 15th, and that trip left a lasting impression.

“That visit did something,” Matthews told IT. “They really exceeded my expectations. I like what they got going on.”

Matthews has a long-standing relationship with cornerbacks coach Mark Orphey, which began when Orphey was coaching at Rutgers. That bond helped Texas gain traction quickly. More recently, Matthews has also connected with veteran defensive backs coach Duane Akina, who brings years of NFL and college experience to the table.

“I’ve always been a fan of how Texas develops and gets guys to the league,” he added. “When you look at the draft numbers, they’re right at the top.”

Texas’ reputation for player development is a key factor in his interest.

Physically, Matthews fits the profile Texas has targeted in recent cycles — a long, physical, and versatile corner who can match up across multiple coverages and alignments.

He’s scheduled to return for an official visit on June 13, and said he’s looking forward to getting back on campus.

Both myself and Inside Texas’ Justin Wells have entered RPM picks in favor of the Longhorns.

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Texas is trending in the right direction for one of the nation’s top corners in the 2026 class.

Matthews is ranked as the No. 71 overall prospect, the No. 12 cornerback, and the No. 7 player in North Carolina in the 2026 On3 Industry Ranking. On3 ranks Matthews as the No. 84 overall prospect, the No. 10 cornerback, and the No. 9 player in North Carolina.

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