BREAKING: Texas Longhorns Confirms Commits For Another Highly Rated Star Player
Kenny Baker has secured his first commitment for the Texas Longhorns, bouncing back from a slow start on the recruiting trail. Defensive tackle Josiah Sharma from Folsom (Calif.) flipped his commitment from the Oregon Ducks to Texas on Thursday, crediting position coach Kenny Baker for his decision.
Sharma, who initially committed to the Ducks less than a month ago, had chosen them over the Longhorns, Alabama, and Washington. All four schools had hosted Sharma on official visits leading up to his initial decision.
The Texas staff extended an offer to Sharma in February and hosted him for an unofficial visit in March, followed by an official visit on June 7. Sharma originally committed to Washington on New Year’s Day during the Huskies’ game against the Longhorns in the Sugar Bowl. However, he decommitted after Washington head coach Kalen DeBoer left for Alabama less than four weeks later.
“This opportunity gave me a chance to re-establish what I needed in a college,” Sharma said before announcing his commitment on Friday.
Oregon’s proximity to home played a role in Sharma’s initial decision, but Texas defensive line coach Kenny Baker managed to sway him, securing his first pledge since replacing Bo Davis. The Longhorns have been searching for both quality and quantity at the defensive tackle position, and Baker is still working on landing Bellville’s DJ Sanders, the top target for the position.
Sharma is a consensus four-star prospect, ranked No. 245 nationally and No. 30 among defensive linemen according to the 247Sports Composite rankings. His commitment brings Texas’ class to 16 pledges, ranking No. 13 in the country.
Sharma is an impressive prospect at 6’4.5” and 325 pounds, with a 79-inch wingspan. Despite his youth, having played his junior season at age 15, he shows significant potential. Sharma possesses good quickness at the snap, making him a challenge for opposing offensive linemen. He needs to improve his hand usage, but his play strength and length are apparent when he does. He consistently disrupts both the run and pass, showing awareness in recognizing screens and the ability to retrace his steps. Although he doesn’t face the stiffest competition, his physical traits, high motor, and untapped potential make him an exciting prospect for the Longhorns.