In a significant development during the early signing period, Justus Terry, the nation’s leading uncommitted prospect from the 2025 class, made his commitment to Texas. The standout defensive tackle was pursued by top programs, but ultimately favored the Longhorns over Georgia and Auburn.
Justus Terry, rated as the No. 7 recruit in the 2025 ESPN 300, concluded his recruitment process by signing with Texas. Standing at 6-foot-5 and weighing 270 pounds, Terry is a formidable presence on the field, hailing from Manchester, Georgia. He becomes the most highly ranked player among the 18 ESPN 300 signees joining coach Steve Sarkisian’s incoming class, which initially ranked No. 3 nationwide in ESPN’s recruiting class rankings.
Terry’s decision comes as a crucial addition to Texas’s roster, as he joins another five-star athlete, Jonah Williams, who is ranked No. 8 in the ESPN 2025 list. This marks the third consecutive cycle where the Longhorns have successfully signed two five-star recruits. The addition of these high-caliber players has propelled Texas to the No. 2 spot in the class rankings, while Oregon occupies the top position, and Georgia falls to third.
Throughout his high school career in Manchester, Georgia, Terry has proven to be a formidable force, recording 116 tackles and 17 sacks over two seasons. His recruitment journey has been active, having previously committed to both Georgia and USC. However, the trajectory shifted in June when he withdrew his pledge from the Trojans.
In the months leading to the signing period, Terry kept his options open, visiting Georgia, Texas, and Auburn in October, with an official visit to Auburn just before the signing period commenced. While Georgia seemed a favorable choice due to proximity, Texas demonstrated a strong commitment to securing Terry, which paid off as he became the top recruit in their 2025 class.
Joining Terry are defensive ends Lance Jackson and Smith Orogbo, ranked No. 70 and No. 108 respectively, and defensive tackle Myron Charles. The latter switched from Florida State earlier, enhancing Texas’s defensive line. Additionally, the Longhorns welcome four-star cornerbacks Kade Phillips and Gracen Littleton, along with safety Zelus Hicks, all contributing to a robust defensive setup.
Texas concluded the early signing period by securing a commitment from four-star athlete Michael Terry, ranked No. 30, along with outstanding prospects Jaime Ffrench and Kaliq Lockett in skill positions. The Longhorns finished their previous season with an 11-1 record and are slated to face Georgia in the SEC Championship, reinforcing their competitive stance.
Justus Terry’s decision to join Texas is a remarkable boost for the program, adding significant depth and talent to their defensive lineup. His commitment not only elevates Texas in the recruiting rankings but also underscores the Longhorns’ prowess in attracting top-tier talent, positioning them strategically for future successes on the field.
Source: Espn
