The Texas Longhorns are building one of the best classes in 2026 & it’ll only get better 🤘 They currently have: • No. 1 QB Dia Bell • No. 1 LB Tyler Atkinson • No. 1 DL JJ Johnson • No. 2 RB Derrek Cooper • No. 3 EDGE Richard Wesley

The Texas Longhorns are making major waves on the recruiting trail, and their 2026 class is shaping up to be one of the best in the nation. With an impressive mix of blue-chip talent from all over the country, Steve Sarkisian’s program is firmly on track to build a powerhouse for the next few years. Currently, the Longhorns’ 2026 recruiting class is already loaded with some of the nation’s top high school prospects, setting the stage for Texas to be a legitimate contender on the national stage for years to come.

At the core of this dynamic class are five-star recruits who will likely play pivotal roles in Texas’ future, including a record-breaking quarterback, a monstrous defensive lineman, and an elite linebacker who could reshape the defense. Add to that a top-tier running back and an explosive edge rusher, and the 2026 class has the makings of something special.

Dia Bell: A Generational Quarterback

The jewel of the 2026 class is undoubtedly quarterback Dia Bell, who has already earned the title of the nation’s top-ranked quarterback. Bell, out of Arlington, Texas, has been the talk of recruiting circles for several years due to his incredible arm strength, football IQ, and leadership ability. Standing at 6’5″ and possessing a strong, athletic build, Bell is a classic dual-threat quarterback who can hurt teams both through the air and with his legs.

Bell’s high school career has been nothing short of spectacular. He’s a proven winner with a calm, poised demeanor in the pocket, and he consistently delivers the ball accurately to his playmakers. What sets Bell apart from other quarterbacks in this class is his ability to read defenses at an advanced level for his age. His athleticism allows him to extend plays and make throws on the run, but it’s his understanding of the game and his decision-making under pressure that truly make him special.

For Texas, securing Bell’s commitment is a game-changer. The Longhorns have been in search of a quarterback who can truly lead the team back to championship contention, and Bell’s unique skill set makes him an ideal fit for the offense Sarkisian is building in Austin. Texas fans are eagerly awaiting Bell’s arrival, as he has the potential to reshape the future of the program in a way that’s reminiscent of Vince Young or Colt McCoy.

Having a quarterback of Bell’s caliber ensures that Texas will be able to compete at the highest level for years to come, and as the No. 1 overall quarterback in the 2026 class, Bell’s arrival will elevate the Longhorns to new heights.

Tyler Atkinson: The Future Leader of the Defense

On the defensive side of the ball, Tyler Atkinson, the No. 1 linebacker in the country, is set to be a game-changer for Texas. Atkinson, hailing from St. Louis, Missouri, is the type of linebacker who can do it all. He’s an elite tackler, an exceptional blitzer, and has the range to cover sideline-to-sideline. Atkinson is 6’2″, 230 pounds of pure muscle, with a combination of speed and power that allows him to make plays all over the field.

Atkinson’s physical attributes are impressive, but it’s his mental makeup that sets him apart. He’s a student of the game, always studying opponents and preparing for every situation. His ability to diagnose plays and make adjustments in real time makes him a natural leader on defense. Atkinson plays with an edge, always bringing intensity and grit to every snap. His leadership qualities are already shining through, and it’s clear that he’s not just going to be an impact player for Texas but also the kind of player who can help shape the identity of the defense.

Texas has a rich history of linebacker play, from legends like Derrick Johnson to more recent stars like DeMarvion Overshown, and Atkinson has the potential to join that list. His ability to impact the game in every facet—from stopping the run to rushing the passer to covering in the passing game—makes him a versatile asset who will be a nightmare for opposing offenses.

With Atkinson on the roster, Texas is adding a linebacker who can take over games, whether it’s with his physicality or his ability to read and react to the opposition’s plays. His commitment to Texas further solidifies that the Longhorns are building an elite defense that can compete with the best of the best.

JJ Johnson: A Dominant Defensive Lineman

Another standout recruit in the 2026 class is JJ Johnson, the No. 1 defensive lineman in the country. Johnson, a 6’5″, 295-pound powerhouse out of New Orleans, Louisiana, is already drawing comparisons to some of the most dominant defensive linemen in college football history. His size, strength, and explosive first step make him a nightmare for offensive lines, and his versatility allows him to play both inside and on the edge.

Johnson has been terrorizing high school offenses with his relentless motor and ability to overpower blockers. He’s known for being an absolute force at the point of attack, often demanding double teams and still finding a way to get into the backfield. His combination of size and athleticism gives him the ability to collapse pockets and stop the run, and he’s equally dangerous as a pass rusher.

For Texas, Johnson is a foundational piece for a defense that could become one of the best in the nation. His ability to wreak havoc on opposing quarterbacks and offensive lines will help Texas make a leap in the Big 12 and eventually in the SEC. Johnson is the type of player who can change the complexion of a game, and his impact will be felt from Day 1 in Austin.

Having a player of Johnson’s caliber on the defensive line will not only improve Texas’ pass rush but also enhance the overall defense by disrupting the pocket and forcing opposing quarterbacks to make rushed decisions. Johnson is a force that Texas will build around for years, and his commitment makes it clear that the Longhorns are aiming to dominate the line of scrimmage at every level of play.

Derrek Cooper: The Next Star Running Back

While Texas has historically been known for producing top-tier quarterbacks and wide receivers, the 2026 class brings a running back that could rewrite the script. Derrek Cooper, ranked as the No. 2 running back in the country, is the type of back who can carry the load and then some. At 6’0″, 215 pounds, Cooper has the ideal size and athleticism to be a true workhorse back. He combines exceptional vision and burst with the strength to break tackles and the speed to outrun defenders.

Cooper has been a standout player throughout his high school career, displaying elite qualities in both the running and passing games. He’s an excellent pass catcher out of the backfield, making him a dual-threat who can contribute in various ways. His ability to read blocks, hit the hole with power, and make defenders miss in the open field makes him a dynamic back who can take over games.

Texas has had a number of solid running backs in recent years, but Cooper could be the next great one in a long line of talented backs who have worn the Longhorns’ jersey. With his size and speed, he has the potential to be an NFL-caliber back, and Texas fans are already excited about the future with him in the fold. The combination of Cooper and a dynamic quarterback like Dia Bell gives Texas a potent backfield that can control games and wear down opposing defenses.

Richard Wesley: A Threat off the Edge

The last major piece of Texas’ 2026 recruiting class is Richard Wesley, the No. 3-ranked EDGE rusher in the country. At 6’4″ and 240 pounds, Wesley is a physical specimen with a relentless motor and a knack for getting to the quarterback. He’s one of the most explosive pass rushers in this class, capable of disrupting the opposing quarterback’s rhythm and creating havoc in the backfield.

Wesley has a quick first step, and his burst off the line of scrimmage is unmatched. He’s an elite athlete with the ability to bend around the edge and get to the quarterback with ease. His pass-rushing moves are refined for his age, and he’s already a step ahead of most high school pass rushers. Additionally, Wesley is strong against the run and can set the edge, making him a complete defensive player who can contribute in all aspects of the game.

With Texas making the transition to the SEC in the near future, the ability to generate pressure on opposing quarterbacks will be more important than ever. Wesley’s commitment ensures that the Longhorns will have one of the most feared pass-rushing units in the country. With his ability to disrupt offenses, Wesley will be a key player for Texas, and he’s poised to make an immediate impact on the field.

The 2026 Texas Longhorns recruiting class has all the makings of a future juggernaut. With a perfect balance of elite talent on both sides of the ball, the Longhorns are building something truly special. The combination of Dia Bell’s arm and leadership, Tyler Atkinson’s ferocity and vision on defense, JJ Johnson’s dominance in the trenches, Derrek Cooper’s dynamic running ability, and Richard Wesley’s pass-rushing prowess is the foundation for a championship-caliber team.

As Texas continues to build upon this strong recruiting class, there is a sense of excitement in Austin. The Longhorns are positioning themselves to be a dominant force in college football for years to come, and with the 2026 class already shaping up to be one of the best in the nation, the future is incredibly bright.

For Texas fans, the wait for a national championship could be over soon. With the 2026 recruiting class leading the way, the Longhorns are building a dynasty, and it’s only going to get better

.