Elite 2026 interior offensive lineman John Turntine III has committed to Texas. The dominant prospect chose the Longhorns over Alabama, Georgia, and LSU, citing culture and coaching.
In a move that sends shockwaves through the national recruiting landscape, elite 2026 interior offensive lineman John Turntine III has officially committed to the University of Texas. The 6-foot-4, 310-pound mauler from Hoover High School in Alabama announced his decision Monday morning, choosing the Longhorns over perennial powerhouses Alabama, Georgia, and LSU.
Turntine, a consensus five-star recruit and the No. 1 ranked interior offensive lineman in the 2026 class by most recruiting services, becomes the crown jewel of Texas’s early 2026 class and a foundational piece for head coach Steve Sarkisian’s continued effort to dominate in the trenches.
“Texas just felt like home,” Turntine told reporters. “From the moment I stepped on campus, I felt the energy. The coaching staff has a clear vision, and I want to be part of it. Their commitment to player development, both on and off the field, stood out to me more than anywhere else.”
A Major Win on the Recruiting Trail
Turntine’s pledge is nothing short of a massive recruiting win for Texas offensive line coach Kyle Flood, who has quickly developed a reputation for attracting and developing elite talent in the trenches. With a background as an NFL offensive line coach and a track record of producing pros, Flood was instrumental in landing Turntine, making regular visits to Hoover and establishing a strong relationship with both the player and his family.
“Coach Flood and I talked almost every week,” Turntine said. “He broke down my film, showed me where I fit into their system, and really helped me understand what it would take to succeed at the next level. I trust him to develop me into the best version of myself.”
The Longhorns’ recent track record with offensive linemen certainly didn’t hurt. Texas has invested heavily in its offensive line room over the past few cycles, landing top national prospects like Kelvin Banks Jr. and DJ Campbell in the 2022 class, and that momentum is clearly continuing with the 2026 cycle.
Fit and Projection
Turntine is widely regarded as one of the most technically sound linemen in the country, known for his powerful hands, excellent leverage, and high football IQ. He’s been a dominant force at Hoover since his sophomore year, anchoring one of the most respected offensive lines in the Southeast.
Though listed as an interior lineman, Turntine has the versatility to play all three interior positions—left guard, right guard, and center—something that undoubtedly appealed to Texas’s coaching staff. Analysts believe he could be a day-one contributor in Austin depending on how the depth chart shakes out by the time he arrives on campus.
“John is the type of player that makes everyone around him better,” said Hoover head coach Wade Phillips. “He’s got an edge to him—he’s physical, disciplined, and plays with a motor that doesn’t stop. But off the field, he’s humble and wants to get better every single day.”
That humility and drive are what make Turntine a can’t-miss prospect. He’s frequently praised not just for his strength and technique, but also for his leadership qualities, maturity, and ability to command a locker room.
Texas’s Growing 2026 Class
With Turntine’s commitment, Texas now holds a firm spot among the top five in the early 2026 recruiting class rankings. His addition brings star power and momentum, and it could help sway several other elite offensive recruits who are still on the fence.
Among those targets are four-star tackle Malik Henderson (CA), five-star guard Jayden Ross (FL), and nationally ranked center Trevor Mason (OH), all of whom have mentioned Texas as a top contender. Turntine has already expressed interest in playing recruiter for the Horns.
“I’m definitely going to be in some guys’ ears,” he said with a grin. “We’re trying to build something special in Austin. Why not be a part of that?”
His presence in the class gives Texas a potential anchor up front for years to come. While most offensive linemen need at least a year of development before seeing significant playing time, Turntine is not most linemen. He’s already advanced in pass protection and dominates as a run blocker, with a frame and technique that college coaches dream of.
Turning Down the SEC
Turntine’s decision to spurn three of the SEC’s most storied programs—Alabama, Georgia, and LSU—says a great deal about the changing tides in college football recruiting. While Texas will be joining the SEC full-time, pulling a top Alabama prospect away from Nick Saban’s program (or its successor, should Saban retire before Turntine enrolls), along with Georgia and LSU, is a rare feat.
“All those schools are great,” Turntine said. “I have a lot of respect for them. But Texas stood out in ways that I just couldn’t ignore. I wanted to be part of something on the rise. And I truly believe we can win national championships at Texas.”
The shift in recruiting power is reflective of Texas’s increased investment in its football program. From NIL opportunities and state-of-the-art facilities to strong administrative support and high-profile alumni backing, Texas has signaled to recruits that it’s serious about competing on college football’s biggest stage.
Character and Community Impact
Beyond the field, Turntine is known in his community as a leader and role model. He volunteers at local youth football camps, maintains a 3.8 GPA, and has taken part in Hoover High’s mentorship program for underclassmen.
“He’s one of those rare kids who is just as impressive in the classroom and community as he is on the field,” said Coach Phillips. “Texas is getting a future captain and a young man with strong values.”
Turntine’s parents, both educators, played a major role in his decision-making process. His mother, Tamika, said the emphasis Texas places on academic support and life-after-football preparation stood out.
“They care about developing the whole person,” she said. “That meant a lot to us. It’s not just about football. It’s about being prepared for life, and Texas made it clear that they take that responsibility seriously.”
What’s Next
Turntine plans to enroll early, joining the Longhorns in January of 2026. Between now and then, he says he’s focused on leading Hoover to a state championship and continuing to refine his game.
“I’m not satisfied,” he said. “I know I have a lot of work to do to be great at the next level. I want to be one of the best offensive linemen to ever come through Texas, and that starts with putting in the work right now.”
Texas fans can already look forward to seeing Turntine suiting up in burnt orange, anchoring a future offensive line that could be among the best in the country. With his commitment, the Longhorns take another major step forward in building a championship-caliber roster for the SEC and beyond.
Scouting Report: John Turntine III
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Height/Weight: 6’4”, 310 lbs
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Position: Interior Offensive Line (G/C)
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High School: Hoover High School (Hoover, AL)
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Ranking: 5-star; No. 1 IOL in 2026
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Strengths:
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Elite hand placement and strength
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High-level football IQ
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Excellent footwork in both run and pass blocking
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Strong finisher who plays through the whistle
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Team leader with vocal presence and work ethic
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Areas to Improve:
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Continue improving lateral quickness
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Build endurance for up-tempo college schemes
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Adaptability to multiple blocking schemes (zone and power)
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John Turntine III’s decision to commit to Texas solidifies the Longhorns’ reputation as a rising force in college football recruiting. As the program transitions into a new era within the SEC, securing blue-chip talents like Turntine will be essential to long-term success. His combination of skill, leadership, and character makes him a cornerstone for Texas’s future — both on and off the field.
The countdown to his arrival in Austin begins now.
