Texas Commit Sends Big Ten Powerhouse Strong Message After Visit
Steve Sarkisian and his staff have quickly gotten to work building up the Texas Longhorns' 2027 recruiting class. The group already ranks sixth in the SEC and 12th in the nation with a total of nine commitments.
Among the players the Longhorns have landed is safety Greedy James. He committed to Texas back on Dec. 3 and was a big-time addition. Out of Manvel, Texas, he is a three-star recruit, the No. 40 safety and the No. 438 player in the nation, per Rivals Industry Rankings.
He put up strong production during his junior season at Manvel High School. In 12 games, he racked up 53 tackles, two interceptions, six pass deflections and one fumble recovery.
Despite his commitment, James is keeping his options open. In fact, according to Rivals' vice president of recruiting, Steve Wiltfong, the defensive back is coming off a visit with the Ohio State Buckeyes. Following his time in Columbus, James spoke to Wiltfong, praising the experience.
"I most definitely loved my visit to Ohio State," he said. "I met with Coach Ryan Day as soon as I arrived. He explained how the culture, and people within the program set Ohio State football apart. I also spent time with defensive coordinator Coach Matt Patricia, whose experience at the highest level speaks for itself. It would be an incredible opportunity to learn from a coach with NFL success and multiple Super Bowl wins."
As impressive as Texas' 2027 cycle is, Ohio State has done a bit more. The Buckeyes' 10 commitments rank them second in the Big Ten and fifth in the nation. Now, they are pushing to flip James from the Longhorns.
If Sarkisian and his staff are not careful, they could see a second decommitment in the cycle, alongside four-star linebacker Taven Epps (Oklahoma Sooners). What would make that outcome sting even more is that James is the only defensive back Texas has landed so far.
With an official visit in Austin scheduled for June 19, the Longhorns have the opportunity to solidify James' commitment and fend off other programs such as Ohio State.
Related: Texas Predicted to Lose 5-Star WR to SEC Powerhouse
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This story was originally published April 21, 2026 at 10:33 AM.