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2022-09-24 01:36:46 By : Mr. Zhaobing Wang

The 2023 recruiting cycle is still heating up as some of the top players around the country announce their college decisions. With that in mind, we have decided to check in on the top recruits in the state of Texas.

The Lone Star State is home to 18 of the top 100 prospects in the country for the 2023 class, headlined by a pair of five-star prospects. Twenty-six of the top 30 prospects in Texas have already announced their respective commitments, while the remaining four are still undecided on where they will play in college.

Fifteen college football programs already have a commitment from at least one of the top 30 prospects in the state. Texas A&M leads the way with four commits among that group, followed by Notre Dame, Oklahoma and Texas with three each, then Alabama and Baylor with two each, while Arkansas, Clemson, Louisville, Michigan, Oregon, Stanford, Texas Tech, USC and Washington each have one.

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With that in mind, scroll down to take a look at the top 30 prospects in Texas for the 2023 class.

247Sports rank: 5-star | 98 rating | No. 12 Overall | No. 1 DL Recruitment status: Undecided 247Sports Crystal Ball: Oklahoma 100% Measurables: 6-4 | 270 Scouting report: Possesses ideal size and growth potential to add additional weight to frame. Displays good athleticism and shows the ability to play multiple roles in a four-man front. Three-sport athlete with a dynamic track and field background. Flashes an explosive first step while exhibiting good foot and body quickness off the line of scrimmage. Shows the ability to bend the edge while possessing good burst to close ability. Demonstrates good play strength at the point of attack and an ability to play with power. Versatile defender that can beat you with speed, quickness, and power on the perimeter and on the interior. Plays the run better than he plays at this point in his development. Project him to move inside as a 4-3 interior lineman as he continues to grow and develop into his frame but does have the athletic capability to maintain a presence on the edge. Ultimately, Hicks is a prospect that possesses the athletic makeup, physical upside and versatility to validate his position as one of the premiere defensive linemen in the 2023 class. – 247Sports National Recruiting Analyst Cooper Petagna NFL Draft projection: First Round

247Sports rank: 5-star | 98 rating | No. 15 Overall | No. 5 QB Recruitment status: Committed to Oklahoma Measurables: 6-1 | 205 Scouting report: Adequate height with the requisite frame and solid build. Functional athlete with enough suddenness in tight quarters to evade pass rushers and extend plays. RPO threat. Ball gets out fast with good velocity to multiple levels. Very good touch passer, whether vertically to the perimeter or elsewhere. Displays the requisite deep-ball strength fostered by a loose, live arm. Changes delivery angle as needed and maintains zip and accuracy. Shows ability to layer throws and beat zone windows. Good runner with above average speed relative to position and open-field lateral nuance that yields extra yards. Advanced pocket presence and rush awareness. Uses the inverted pivot to buy time and find receivers. Accurate from the pocket and on the move. Owns the desired demeanor for the position. Calm, poised, and competitive. Strong production vs. elite competition relative to the high school level (Texas 6A). Led team to Texas 6A D-II state title appearance as a junior. Values the ball. Only five interceptions in 445 throws as a junior (one INT every 89 attempts). Big enough but lacks elite frame potential. Deep shots occasionally have too much air. Through 2021 season appears to be the clear No. 1 QB in Texas for the 2023 recruiting cycle. Projects as a high-major starter for multiple years with a long-term NFL Draft ceiling. – 247Sports Midlands Region Recruiting Analyst Gabe Brooks

247Sports rank: 4-star | 96 rating | No. 23 Overall | No. 1 RB Recruitment status: Committed to Louisville Measurables: 5-11 | 190 Scouting report: Owns the requisite frame with an athletic build and room to add necessary mass. Looks and plays taller / longer than listing with open-field gait on the longer end of the spectrum that fosters speed-building ability at the top end. Significant year-over-year production increase from freshman to sophomore to junior, including counting stats and per carry rate. Owns good top-end field speed reflected in track and field data, including several sub-11.00 100-meter times and Texas 4A state championship-contending long jump numbers. Quick-footed with advanced creativity in the hole and at second level. Capable of stringing together moves to extend runs. Does not require much gear-down when redirecting and explodes out of jump cuts, even stacking a couple together in traffic at times. Unique movement patterns that combine linear explosion with lateral suddenness and body control. Seemingly always moving forward even when juking. Flashes a dangerous hesitation move that he bursts out of once defender freezes. Capable pass catcher with ample 7-on-7 reps as a receiver, though in-game opportunities catching the ball have been somewhat limited. Third-down competency in blitz pickup and increased passing game reps can be developed. Upright runner at times, but increasingly shows target-shrinking awareness when anticipating contact. Strong enough to rip through arm tackles and contact balance is a plus. Continues to look like one of the best 2023 running backs in the country, if not the best. Possesses requisite physical tools with excellent multi-sport data and extensive in-game context to paint a picture of a high-potential back. Projects as a high-major multi-year impact player with NFL Draft early-round ceiling. – 247Sports Midlands Region Recruiting Analyst Gabe Brooks Player comparison: Rashaad Penny | RB | Seattle Seahawks

247Sports rank: 4-star | 96 rating | No. 35 Overall | No. 1 LB Recruitment status: Committed to Texas A&M Measurables: 6-2 | 225 Scouting report: Requisite height with good length and a big frame to add mass. Athletic, physical, violent off-ball linebacker who occasionally steps to the line of scrimmage. Long-term positional home is in question, but ability is not. Thumper vs. the run with chase-down athleticism from the back side. Capable of consistent sideline-to-sideline pursuit with proven blitzing ability. Tone-setter for an FBS-loaded Texas 5A D-I state championship defense as only a sophomore. Produced good numbers despite playing on a unit with a lot of mouths to feed, so to speak. Adequate in-space athleticism in coverage but at his best playing downhill. Owns valuable offensive reps as a short-yardage battering ram with the ball. Shows promising pass-rush instincts despite primary role being off-ball. Main question is position in the long term, but physical tools suggest highest ceiling as an edge player. Regardless, one of the most dynamic defensive prospects in Texas and the country for his class through the 2020 season. Projects as an impact high-major starter with long-term early-round NFL Draft potential. – 247Sports Midlands Region Recruiting Analyst Gabe Brooks NFL Draft projection: Second Round

247Sports rank: 4-star | 95 rating | No. 40 Overall | No. 6 WR Recruitment status: Committed to Oklahoma Measurables: 5-11 | 170 Scouting report: Listed at 5-foot-11 and 170-pounds plus, possesses growth potential to add additional bulk to his frame. Three-phase player, displays good athletic ability in all three-phases of the game. Straight line dynamic player, shows the ability to accelerate to top end speed quickly. Flashes some quick twitch explosiveness and initial quickness off the line of scrimmage and at the top of the route to separate off the press. More of a one cut vertical route runner. Flashes some excellent run after catch ability with outstanding separation quickness. Shows the ability to make the first defender miss in space with some wiggle and ability to play through contact. Has more of a ground game than finesse as a route runner. Beats you with linear speed and acceleration after the catch. More of a body catcher but flashes some natural pass catching ability at the catch point. Adds a dimension in the return and the vertical passing game with the ability to be a quick hitter with his speed. Projects to a high level multi-year Power Five starter at the next level that has the ability to be featured early in his career because of his ability to stretch the field. Expect him to contribute early in the return game as well at the next level. Has room to continue to develop as a route runner but has an excellent day one foundation with his speed. – 247Sports National Recruiting Analyst Cooper Petagna NFL Draft projection: Second Round

247Sports rank: 4-star | 95 rating | No. 47 Overall | No. 8 WR Recruitment status: Committed to Texas Measurables: 6-0 | 175 Scouting report: Checking in at a verified 5-foot-11 and a half and 171 pounds with well proportioned upper and lower body. Cook has a muscular build that can continue to add weight and strength. More than an ample arm length and wingspan that is an asset for him with regards to catch radius. Very good burst off the ball that gives him an immediate advantage on most defensive backs from the snap. Excellent quickness and change of direction. His short-area quickness is an asset when he is running pivots and in or out breaking routes. Nice at sinking his hips and dropping his body weight where he can create separation and accelerate away from the defender. Good body control with little wasted movement when he is running his routes. Hands catcher that plucks the ball out of the air with ease. Ability to track the deep ball and make tough over the shoulder catches. Will make the tough catches and compete for the 50/50 balls. Adapt to running the route tree from both the slot or outside receiver position. This 2-sport athlete who also competes in track and field, still has some growth left within his skills and overall game. Putting up very good numbers as a junior where he accounted for 38 catches and 806 yards for a 21.2 ypc average as well as 19 touchdowns. By his production you understand that he is a threat anytime he is on the field. Being a starter once he gets to college as well as a all-conference performer and goals that he can definitely achieve. – 247Sports National Recruiting Expert Chris Singletary NFL Draft projection: 2-3 Round (Day 2)

247Sports rank: 4-star | 95 rating | No. 56 Overall | No. 4 CB Recruitment status: Committed to Texas A&M Measurables: 5-10 | 185 Scouting report: Brings a nice track and field background with him that translates to the football field. Stats across the board further validate his overall skills that he brings to the table. Has a frame and build where he can gain mass and strength. As a corner, flashes very good quickness and burst. Will need to work on refining technique when playing off coverage. Does a good job mirroring the receiver and staying in phase in man coverage. Displays very good body control and ball awareness. Willing tackler who is comfortable in support. Moves smoothly without any hesitation. Evidence of his speed and acceleration shows in all aspects of his game. Loose hips enable him to function with more than adequate change of direction. Checks a lot of boxes and junior production supports that (1,006 yards rushing, 15 touchdowns, 336 yards receiving, 27 tackles, two INT). Couple these numbers with punting duties and return reps to provide a complete player. Possesses high-ceiling potential, particularly once focused on one position. – 247Sports National Recruiting Expert Chris Singletary NFL Draft projection: 2-3 Round (Day 2)

247Sports rank: 4-star | 95 rating | No. 57 Overall | No. 10 WR Recruitment status: Committed to Texas Measurables: 5-10 | 170 Scouting report: Unverified size but owns the build of a slot receiver or cornerback. Could play either side of the ball, but indications are receiver at this point. Lean and athletic with adequate height based on eye test. Versatile playmaker for big-school program in Houston metro. Got snaps at a variety of positions as a junior, including QB, receiver, DB, and return man. Scored touchdowns in all three phases. Shows very good play speed backed by outstanding track and field profile. Sub-11.00 100-meter speed, including a 10.58 as a sophomore. Also owns a 21.5 200 and very good long jump and triple jump numbers. Dangerous run-after-catch playmaker. Runs with a violent gait but still separates from defenders. Accelerates suddenly and top gear is too fast for almost any opponent he faces. Raw as a pass catcher and route runner. Throws get into his body sometimes. Significant lack of ideal touches on offense with only 18 combined (nine rush, nine receiving) in 2021. Will need to hone craft as a receiver, but an electric athlete with big-play punch on the gridiron and dominant 7-on-7 context. Among the top track and field athletes in the 2023 football class. Projects as a high-major impact player with long-term NFL Draft potential. – 247Sports Midlands Region Recruiting Analyst Gabe Brooks

247Sports rank: 4-star | 95 rating | No. 58 Overall | No. 7 DL Recruitment status: Undecided 247Sports Crystal Ball: No predictions Measurables: 6-4 | 290 Scouting report: Deal does a good job of playing with good snap and body quickness out of his stance. He also plays with good pad-level which allows him to limit the blocking surface for his opponent. With his punch you see the explosion out of his hips that gives him the ability to generate very good power to sting the opponent and create knock-back to play on the offensive side of the ball. He has a good 1st step and shows twitch out of his stance. Very good at disengaging to make himself a fact in the play, whether it's action to him or play away. He has a good motor and effort on plays where he will chase and show up, making some plays from the backside. Very good for a player his size at stunting into gaps or setting the edge in a 4-man or 3-man front. Able to hold his ground and not get rooted out of his gap when facing double-teams and is very instinctive with getting his hand up in passing lanes when rushing the passer. In his development he is ahead as a run-stopper with the tools and traits to be a factor as an above average passer with more reps and technique growth. Brings position and scheme versatility to the table on the defensive line. The maturation left both physically and football wise along with his natural talent is there for him to be a very productive player on the next level as a starter. – 247Sports National Recruiting Expert Chris Singletary NFL Draft projection: 2-3 Round (Day 2) Player comparison: Ross Blacklock | DL | Houston Texans

247Sports rank: 4-star | 94 rating | No. 65 Overall | No. 5 CB Recruitment status: Undecided 247Sports Crystal Ball: Texas 57.1% | LSU 42.9% Measurables: 6-0 | 185 Scouting report: From a measurable standpoint he checks in where you would on a top defensive back prospect to be at 6-foot-0 and 185-pounds. Long limbed athlete that has a 77-inch wingspan to further validate his overall size. His athleticism is above average when you have a chance to watch him and shows up constantly. Toviano is a muscular broad shouldered young man that still has a lot of room to add mass and gain strength as he develops in the weight room. His lower half is lean and well defined. Flashes very good quickness and change of direction for a longer body athlete. Does a nice job of being smooth transitioning once he flips his hips and is light on his feet. Good in his back pedal keeping his body square with the ability to plant and go once the receiver has declared in his break. Good in press coverage where he doesn’t panic and show patience as he mirrors the receiver with good eye placement and leverage. Once the ball is in the air he reacts well to the receiver going for it and he attacks their hands to make a play. In off-coverage flashes the instincts to read and react quickly and not get caught in bad body position. Does a nice job of getting depth on his drops and staying in his zone without chasing receivers and being disciplined. A player that is a very good overall athlete as he has 3-phase snaps on special teams offense and defense. Shows good speed with the ability to chase down guys. Willing to come up and tackle in the run support. Plays with good strength and is physical. Depending on how he matures and grows he could transition to safety as well. He has the ability and skill to have a multi-all-conference type career ending up with an NFL type career. Look for him to be a top 2 to 3-round selection. – 247Sports National Recruiting Expert Chris Singletary NFL Draft projection: 2-3 Round (Day 2)

247Sports rank: 4-star | 94 rating | No. 67 Overall | No. 6 CB Recruitment status: Committed to Notre Dame Measurables: 5-11 | 170 Scouting report: Adequate height with lean, slight frame, but possesses space to add mass. Natural football player with diverse on-field experience that should help instincts and awareness. Primarily a running back through junior year, but also owns snaps at cornerback, his projected long-term positional home. Flashes outstanding top-end field speed and produced good numbers at running back as a junior (1,100+ yards, 8.3 ypc). Garnered almost 150 touches in Fall 2021, which should help with ball skills and impact production once comfortable as a full-time cornerback. Possesses a good football pedigree (older brother a 2022 Georgia receiver signee) and elite track and field profile among the very best in the 2023 football class. Owns multiple sub-10.5 100-meter times and excellent data points in the 200, long jump, and triple jump. Athleticism translates to the gridiron and provides immense developmental potential. Will arrive in college very raw from a position-specific technical perspective. May need time to adjust to the corner spot vs. high-major competition. Size / build could present a liability vs. bigger, stronger wideouts. Could potentially provide an early option on special teams, whether returning kicks or covering them. Athleticism and playmaking knack could make him a special teams demon. Despite relative lack of corner-specific experience, overall profile reflective of NFL Draft success in recent years in regards to extensive offensive touches and elite track and field profile. Projects as a high-major prospect with a long-term NFL Draft ceiling. – 247Sports Midlands Region Recruiting Analyst Gabe Brooks

247Sports rank: 4-star | 94 rating | No. 71 Overall | No. 10 DL Recruitment status: Committed to Michigan Measurables: 6-4.5 | 260 Scouting report: Checking at verified 6-foot-4.5 and 261-pounds with an 81-inch wingspan. He has the look of a major college player with his overall physical build. With a 40-pound weight gain over that last year you see a spurt that is not the norm. Looking good with a powerful trunk the majority of his weight is in his base to provide explosiveness and strength. There is room still to develop and add definition in his upper body with a broad-shouldered frame. Ultimately it is going to be interesting to see how his body matures and ends up. Etta is an above average athlete that plays with good technique. Always is coming forward on the snap of the ball, keeps live feet and good eye placement coming out of his stance. He plays with his hands where he has a good solid punch to control blockers and shed to get to the ball. Nice body quickness with good twitch and looseness. Good ability to chase the ball-carrier down from the backside. Very active off the ball and physical at the point of attack. Plays with a good motor, shows effort to finish plays. Comfortable playing either left or right end. Needs to continue to work on his stance to generate all the burst with the physical traits that he has. His natural instances take over when he rushes the passer. Plays the cut-block very well and is able to gain the edge and run the hoop to the quarterback. He has good balance and body control he rarely gets over extended and out of position. As you watch him over the last two seasons his development is very encouraging as his motor and physicality are just a couple of the things that stand-out. He has position versatility that can see him play either end spot or even line up inside on pass-rush downs. He is the type of player that is a multiple year Power-5 starter. Along with this he has all the tools to be an All-Conference performer and see the NFL once his college days are over as and early round selection. – 247Sports National Recruiting Expert Chris Singletary NFL Draft projection: 2-3 Round (Day 2)

247Sports rank: 4-star | 94 rating | No. 74 Overall | No. 12 WR Recruitment status: Committed to Alabama Measurables: 6-1 | 185 Scouting report: Good height and length with lean, athletic frame. Measured 6-1 or a shade taller several times, along with a large wingspan. Frame can hold more mass as needed. Three-sport participation at varsity level. Skilled basketball player who's gradually developed finishing ability in the open floor. Noticeably improved hoops athleticism in junior season. Posted respectable 200-meter and long jump numbers as a sophomore and junior. Member of two Texas 5A top five relays (4x100, 4x200). Plays even above listed size in contested situations and after the catch. Height, length, and vertical explosion foster ball-winning and red-zone danger. Wiry strong with good run-after-catch strength. Displays excellent body control and core strength that shine in the air and via contact balance. Fluid mover whose movement patterns aid that balance. Shows great timing and concentration skills, whether on contested throws or tracking deep balls. Particularly dangerous coming back to the ball, whether by design or on underthrown passes. Displays helpful bailout ability for his quarterback. Strong production in sophomore and junior seasons has continued through first half of senior campaign. Shows short-to-intermediate consistency and big-play juice. Initial get-off and early acceleration look improved as a senior, helping in getting on top of corners quickly. Plays with an unorthodox gait that coincidentally helps in run-after-catch effectiveness, but can tighten movement patterns to maximize suddenness; that would increase route-running efficiency and general explosiveness. Good frame but a bit narrow through the core, so will need to add mass. Combination of physical tools, functional athleticism, three-sport athletic profile, and on-field context make for simultaneously high-floor wideout with promising developmental potential. Projects as a multi-year high-major starter who could ultimately progress to a candidate for the top half of the NFL Draft. – 247Sports Midlands Region Recruiting Analyst Gabe Brooks Player comparison: Erik Ezukanma | WR | Miami Dolphins

247Sports rank: 4-star | 94 rating | No. 78 Overall | No. 7 CB Recruitment status: Committed to Texas Measurables: 5-11.5 | 175 Scouting report: Verified near 6 feet and 170 pounds, possesses growth potential to add additional weight to his frame. Displays good athleticism at multiple positions in the secondary, showing the ability to line up as a corner, safety, and slot defender. Adds value in all three phases of the game. Exhibits good knee bend and hip flexibility and transitions smoothly out of his back pedal. Efficient mover. Plays with very little wasted motion. Appears to have excellent short-area change of direction and plant-and-drive ability. Flashes good burst to close out of the back pedal. Demonstrates good play speed and read-and-react ability at multiple positions in the secondary. Has the range and instincts to play the deep hash, while possessing the reactionary athleticism and quickness to add value as a match defender. Shows some ball production on tape, along with some stickiness as a man defender. Has excellent versatility as a back-end defender and plays with instincts and toughness in both run and pass. Projects to a high-level multi-year starter at a Power Five program with the ability to develop into an all-conference player at the next level. Will add value on multiple special teams units and wouldn’t be surprised if he sees the field sooner than later collegiately. – 247Sports National Recruiting Analyst Cooper Petagna

247Sports rank: 4-star | 94 rating | No. 84 Overall | No. 5 S Recruitment status: Committed to Notre Dame Measurables: 6-0 | 185 Scouting report: Owns the requisite height and frame with an athletic build. Versatile playmaker for high-caliber Texas Class 6A power. Ample snaps in all three phases at receiver, multiple spots in the secondary, and kick/punt returner. Excellent ball skills. That combines with awareness and instincts to create a ball-productive playmaker. Shows route-running acumen and hands-catching technique at receiver. Also displays terrific body control and adjustment abilities in contested situations. Sudden athlete with lateral mobility and great initial burst and acceleration. Dangerous as a center fielder thanks to ability to cover territory and make plays on the ball. Shows functional athleticism to man up when needed. Turns and locates very well. Outstanding tester. Two-sport athlete with above average track times relative to age (11.31 100, 22.71 200 as a sophomore). Extensive experience in high-leverage situations and against great competition. Helped team to a Texas 6A D-II state runner-up finish as a junior. Good long speed on the field but can still find another gear at the top end, which track data reflect. Occasionally provides the big hit, but right now more effort tackler who will need to add strength and arriving pop with more consistency. Through junior year, looks like one of the nation's top safeties in the 2023 class. Projects a potential high-major impact player in the future, with immediate special teams value, and a long-term ceiling that could lead to the NFL Draft. – 247Sports Midlands Region Recruiting Analyst Gabe Brooks NFL Draft projection: 2-3 Round (Day 2)

247Sports rank: 4-star | 94 rating | No. 88 Overall | No. 5 TE Recruitment status: Committed to Stanford Measurables: 6-4.5 | 235

247Sports rank: 4-star | 94 rating | No. 89 Overall | No. 8 QB Recruitment status: Committed to Baylor Measurables: 6-3 | 185

247Sports rank: 4-star | 93 rating | No. 96 Overall | No. 14 WR Recruitment status: Committed to Notre Dame Measurables: 6-2 | 185 Scouting report: Big-framed outside receiver with clear physical tools and athleticism. Approaching legit 6-foot-2 with big reach and corresponding catch radius. Assembled one of the best verified testing ledgers in the country in Spring 2022, confirming top-end speed and initial explosiveness. That highest gear can perhaps show up a bit more often on the field, but the materials certainly exist to manifest that. Multi-sport experience with previous basketball participation, while also competing in track and field (hurdles, high jump, relays). General functional athleticism checks out on tape and in live elite camp exposure. Displays advanced feel for winning in traffic and adjusting mid-air. Good sense of timing and elevates with large reach to expand catch radius. Matchup nightmare for smaller defensive backs. Dangerous red-zone option given physical traits and contested throw success. Also returned kicks in 2021. Linear juice provides big-play ability in that capacity, which could give a school that option in college. Appears to be more linear-oriented athletically, but testing data suggests fluidity is there. Generally a hands catcher but ball gets into him on occasion. Needs a runway at times to hit top gear, but the data as a whole suppresses much of that concern. Production has been solid, but not dominant, relative to many other national-level wideouts. Honing route-running nuance should raise long-term developmental ceiling even higher. One of the most physically gifted receivers in this class with national top 100 potential. Possesses physical resources to become a legitimate high-major impact player with traits that correspond to future NFL Draft candidacy. – 247Sports Midlands Region Recruiting Analyst Gabe Brooks

247Sports rank: 4-star | 93 rating | No. 101 Overall | No. 15 OT Recruitment status: Committed to Baylor Measurables: 6-7 | 288 Scouting report: Robinson immediately looks the part when you see him. At 6-foot-8, 288-pounds with a 84-inch wingspan and a 10-inch hand. With these verified measurements he has the prototype look of an NFL tackle. For a player his size he is an above average athlete. Still developing with his athleticism as well as with his body where he will add bulk and strength as he works in the weight room. Nice frame and build to lean his body out, trim up his mid-section and rebuild into a strong muscular frame. In the lower body he can also add mass that will add to his explosiveness and power with his leg drive. For a big man he moves smooth and with fluidity. He is light on his feet and solid in his change of direction movement where he has to redirect at times. Does a good job with his body quickness as he has to make sudden movements on the snap of the ball. As a puller he is able to pick them up and put them down. Along with turning the corner and getting his shoulders square to the line of scrimmage, once he engages the defenders he latches on and does a good job driving them off the ball. He has pretty good bend and flexibility for a player that’s high cut. Solid power with his punch that will only get better. He is still a work in progress in pass pro. He can get high at times but does a good job of mirroring his opponent from getting to the quarterback. Overall, he has so much growth and ability left in his game. Once all his potential has reached the sky can be the limit. He projects to be able to play both left and right tackle. Power-5 starter is what he can evolve into with a ceiling of being a multi-year all-conference performer. It is hard to find length and big bodies at the NFL level, that is why the future prospects of Robinson being a top 4 round pick are possible. – 247Sports National Recruiting Expert Chris Singletary

247Sports rank: 4-star | 93 rating | No. 105 Overall | No. 6 LB Recruitment status: Committed to Oklahoma Measurables: 6-1 | 208 Scouting report: Requisite size for modern off-ball linebacker who can thrive in space and stay on the field in myriad situations. Around the 6-foot-1, 210- to 215-pound range entering senior season with build that should support 230-pound neighborhood if desired. Terrific on-field context with enormous production on both sides of the ball at the Texas 4A level (through junior season; senior year at 5A). Gained 1,500-plus receiving yards over sophomore and junior seasons. Finished junior campaign with 150 tackles, five INTs, four sacks, and three defensive TDs. Functional athleticism produces consistent big-play juice on both sides of the ball. Shows surprising hands-catching acumen and big-play speed as a receiver. Excellent closing ability on defense. Flashes chase-down speed with an exceptionally broad pursuit range. Athletic enough to compensate for occasional less-than-ideal angles. Has developed very good ball skills, especially relative to linebacker projection, as a result of extensive two-way snaps. In addition to edge and linebacker reps, owns significant snaps at safety and plays with coverage awareness. Displays impressive linear acceleration with burst and open-field playmaking ability of a Power Five skill prospect. Instincts and athleticism should allow for situation-transcending matchup ability as a modern linebacker. Excellent overall athletic profile that includes three-sport varsity competition (basketball, track and field). Varied T&F participation with reps in triple jump, high jump, discus, 110-meter hurdles, and multiple relays. Can clean up tackling technique and consistency. Occasionally hunts the big hit and compromises form. Adding strength and some mass will aid in transition to P5 level, especially in acclimation to in-the-box run game duties. One of the top defensive prospects in the Lone Star State's 2023 recruiting class. Flat-out football player with natural feel for the game. Projects as a high-major recruit who could become an impact multi-year starter with long-term NFL Draft potential. – 247Sports Midlands Region Recruiting Analyst Gabe Brooks

247Sports rank: 4-star | 93 rating | No. 106 Overall | No. 8 ATH Recruitment status: Committed to Texas A&M Measurables: 6-1 | 187 Scouting report: Good height and apparent frame length, though neither verified yet. Lean, athletic, wiry strong build. Multi-layered on-field experience in all-three phases. Snaps at multiple skill positions, in the secondary, and in the return game. Enormous two-way production for dominant small-school program. Too athletic as a ball carrier for vast majority of opponents at Texas 2A level. Big-play machine at running back. Possesses ball skills fostered by ample two-way snaps. High-volume tackler when needed. Takes good angles to the ball and arrives with purpose. More natural and instinctive on defense. Also competes in the long jump and triple jump. Ran an 11.49 100 as a freshman, an encouraging time at that age. Good top-end field speed but can probably still squeeze more juice out of it. Shows above average redirecting ability but will need to translate that to consistent short-area twitch, especially if assigned to a DB spot in college. Raw in technique in general but possesses good physical and developmental upside. Could play Power Five ball on either side of the line of scrimmage, but projects as a potential impact player at safety, where he's a high-major recruit with a long-term NFL Draft ceiling. – 247Sports Midlands Region Recruiting Analyst Gabe Brooks NFL Draft projection: 2-3 Round (Day 2)

247Sports rank: 4-star | 93 rating | No. 107 Overall | No. 9 CB Recruitment status: Committed to Texas A&M Measurables: 5-11 | 170 Scouting report: Thomas is a lean built player with a muscular frame. Measuring at 5-foot-11 and 170 pounds, you have a player that flashes twitch and change of direction with false stepping and is able to plant and transition easily. With a build to add mass, I can see him adding another 10 to 15 pounds as he fills out to his full potential physically. His explosiveness and burst translate to him posting a verified vertical jump of 34 inches and a broad jump of 10-foot-3 inches. He is able to key and diagnose without hesitation in both run and pass situations. His speed is evident as he is able to stay on top of receivers on deep routes as well as showing up in situations where he is chasing plays down. When he is playing press man is has live feet where he doesn’t get caught flat footed often thus he is able to mirror well and play the receiver and compete for the ball once it’s in the air the majority of the time. Instinctive football player that makes plays in both the run and the pass. Is ahead right now in man coverage skills but has the athleticism and technique to be a comfortable playing zone as well. Not afraid to come up and make a tackle on the ball-carrier. Thomas is a talent as he further develops, he has the tools and ability that can get him early playing time. He is a guy that can figure to play in special teams, nickel and outside with good production. – 247Sports National Recruiting Expert Chris Singletary NFL Draft projection: 2-3 Round (Day 2)

247Sports rank: 4-star | 93 rating | No. 108 Overall | No. 13 DL Recruitment status: Committed to Washington Measurables: 6-5 | 265 Scouting report: Measuring in at 6-foot-4 and half along with weighing 248-pounds these are very promising numbers for an emerging player. The 80-inch wingspan, 10- inch hand and size 16 shoes speak to the growth potential that will come as he matures and develops in the weight room once he gets to college. With a good frame that has good development already for a highschool prospect. He is more developed right now in his lower body where you have good definition in his legs. As he hits the weights in his upper body you should see good mass and defined muscles in that area. James has solid flexibility in his knees with some stiffness in his ankles. He has a smooth running style with a good get off that flashes some suddenness. For a guy with a long build has above average change of direction. Uses his length and wingspan to his advantage when taking on blockers and not letting them get into his body. Plays with a motor and good effort, willing to chase plays away. Good pad level as he comes off the ball and engages with the offensive lineman. As he gets stronger his punch on the opponent will have more of an effect, The fact that he uses his hands well at this stage of his career is a positive sign. James is a guy with a lot of potential and positive traits. His body type and physical maturity into college will enable him to fit in either an odd or even front defensive line. He is a player that can play either end or become a 3-tech with the amount of weight that he may gain. – 247Sports National Recruiting Expert Chris Singletary Projection: Power-5 Starter

247Sports rank: 4-star | 93 rating | No. 109 Overall | No. 12 EDGE Recruitment status: Committed to Texas Tech Measurables: 6-4 | 210

247Sports rank: 4-star | 93 rating | No. 111 Overall | No. 5 IOL Recruitment status: Committed to Clemson Measurables: 6-4 | 300 Scouting report: Requisite height with above-average length relative to interior O-line projection. Broad, burly build with virtually college-ready size, but wears mass well and can fit more bulk as needed. Offers extremely valuable roster versatility given experience at center and guard. Tone setter in the run game thanks to size, strength, and field demeanor. Run-game mauler who often overwhelms defenders at the point of attack. Fires off consistently and almost always initiates contact. Gets defenders on their heels and shows finishing strength and conviction. Generates functional strength and close-quarters power that compensate when engagement angle or other technical aspect is compromised. Flashes punch but can be more consistent in that area. Has shown encouraging lateral agility in pass pro, but relatively limited exposure to traditional passing game situations could create a learning curve. Consistency in hand placement can improve, as can body control when engaged. Again, provides almost priceless roster value considering high-quality play across at least three positions, including the ability to snap. Physical presence with good tools and a profile that projects to the high-major level and the potential for NFL Draft candidacy. – 247Sports Midlands Region Recruiting Analyst Gabe Brooks

247Sports rank: 4-star | 93 rating | No. 129 Overall | No. 15 DL Recruitment status: Committed to Alabama Measurables: 6-3.5 | 245 Scouting report: Position- and scheme-versatile defensive lineman with requisite height and above average frame space. Not overly long but does own plus length relative to height. Athletically built with a stout base. Plays violent at the point of combat and when arriving at the ball. Can flash startling close-quarters power, whether hand fighting an OL or striking a ball carrier. Wields a powerful inside hand, especially when aligned on the edge. Plays with good leverage and shows disengaging force vs. the run. Testing data suggests room to develop overall athleticism; that said, good functional athlete with obvious suddenness and downhill juice. Modest production as a junior with single-digit TFL, two sacks. Increased senior year production would be encouraging. Broad pursuit range should foster more consistent playmaking impact with continued technical development, especially as move set expands. Intriguing front-seven prospect classified at DL with traits that translate anywhere from a big edge to a more traditional one-gapping 3-technique. Projects as a high-major prospect who could become a multi-year starter and develop into a bona fide NFL Draft candidate. – 247Sports Midlands Region Recruiting Analyst Gabe Brooks Player comparison: Zachary Carter | DL | Cincinnati Bengals

247Sports rank: 4-star | 92 rating | No. 144 Overall | No. 9 S Recruitment status: Undecided 247Sports Crystal Ball: Ole Miss 71.4% | USC 28.6% Measurables: 6-1 | 185 Scouting report: Physically where you want him to be coming into college with a 76 1/2 wingspan. Length and lean muscular frame are encouraging factors. Can add more mass to an already defined frame. Shows above average quickness and change of direction with a good backpedaling and ability to stay square with the receiver. Well coached in his technique with good eye placement in zone coverage along with using length in press man to knock receivers off their timing. Does a nice job of leveraging receivers and staying in phase and on top of the route. Tracks the ball well and has above average ball skills. Does a good job of getting off the stalk block. Closes fast to either make the tackle or to be a factor in the run game, where he is a strong tackler. Does a very good job of keying and reacting to the play. Owns an NFL pedigree in his father (Michael Myers, who played at Alabama and for the Dallas Cowboys). Strong presence of football intelligence shows on film. – 247Sports National Recruiting Expert Chris Singletary NFL Draft projection: 4-7 Round (Day 3)

247Sports rank: 4-star | 92 rating | No. 146 Overall | No. 12 CB Recruitment status: Committed to Arkansas Measurables: 5-11.5 | 170

247Sports rank: 4-star | 92 rating | No. 152 Overall | No. 17 WR Recruitment status: Committed to Oregon Measurables: 6-3.5 | 193 Scouting report: Tall, long, and lean with somewhat narrow build but space to add mass. Big catch radius and physical tools to win contested throws. Owns excellent verified athleticism and multi-sport context. Ran several 100-meter times of 11.15 or faster as a sophomore, including a 10.74 and a 10.96. Posted one 11.05 as a junior. Also has tested very well with a verified 4.45 40 and big vertical and broad jump numbers. Displays impressive long speed with run-away top end in the vertical passing game. Sometimes shows easy downfield speed. Generally a hands catcher who can snag throws away from frame, including targets in traffic. Solid production as a junior in first full season of varsity action. Provided big-play punch as evidenced by 11 touchdowns and 18.9 yards per catch. Promising 2021 season, but still more projection than production to this point entering senior campaign. Will need to add mass and strength. Can produce more initial explosion off the line. Projects as a bona fide high-major receiver who should be able to stretch the field in most scenarios. Owns the physical tools and proven athleticism to provide a high developmental ceiling that could possibly lead to all-conference production and eventual NFL Draft consideration. – 247Sports Midlands Region Recruiting Analyst Gabe Brooks NFL Draft projection: 4-7 Round (Day 3)

247Sports rank: 4-star | 92 rating | No. 156 Overall | No. 18 EDGE Recruitment status: Committed to USC Measurables: 6-4.5 | 235

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