Christmas came early for the Texas Longhorns as they locked in a glowing new set of recruits, propelling them to the top of the college football world's nice list. After nabbing commitments from two top safeties and concluding their early signing period with a flourish, the Longhorns are at the No. 2 spot in Rivals' Comprehensive Team Rankings. According to Sports Illustrated, the duo of Xavier Filsaime and Andrew Mukuba have helped the Longhorns' defensive prospects shine for 2024.
According to KXAN, Head coach Steve Sarkisian and his staff have led a charge that culminated in signing 26 recruits by the close of the early period. Joining the ranks is Aaron Butler, the No. 21 wide receiver, who will help restock the team's arsenal at that position. The defensive line is also getting a boost with UTSA transfer Trey Moore, who comes with a formidable track record that includes being named a freshman All-American in 2022.
The Longhorns played the transfer game with aplomb, swiping Moore from UTSA, an edge rusher with a resume that boasts "105 tackles (35.5 for loss) with 22 sacks," as per KXAN. Moore's addition wraps up his college career with a hefty bow - recognition as a first-team All-American by The Athletic in 2023 and the American Athletic Conference Defensive Player of the Year.
Texas' stocking was also stuffed with the promised arrival of Filsaime, who previously committed to the Florida Gators but switched gears after an unofficial visit to Austin, "Sports Illustrated" reports. His commitment is akin to a festive "Flipmas" miracle for the Longhorns, considering his rankings as On3's second-highest-rated safety in the 2024 class.
The regular signing period, which opens February 7, may yet see the Longhorns lasso a few more top-tier recruits, and rival teams best watch their chimney, lest Texas sneak in and swipe the milk and cookies right off the hearth.
