Elite 4-Star linebacker picks Texas over Alabama, Miami, and Michigan

One of DC Pete Kwiatkowski's top targets in the 2026 recruiting class committed to the Longhorns today, solidifying the LB room for the next few seasons.
Texas Longhorns defensive coordinator Pete Kwiatkowski speaks to media at the Sheraton Hotel on Thursday, Dec. 28, 2023 in New Orleans, Louisiana. The Texas Longhorns will face the Washington Huskies in the Sugar Bowl on January 1, 2024.
Texas Longhorns defensive coordinator Pete Kwiatkowski speaks to media at the Sheraton Hotel on Thursday, Dec. 28, 2023 in New Orleans, Louisiana. The Texas Longhorns will face the Washington Huskies in the Sugar Bowl on January 1, 2024. | Aaron E. Martinez/American-Statesman / USA TODAY NETWORK

Mayde Creek (TX) linebacker Kosi Okpala announced his commitment to the University of Texas this afternoon in front of his classmates, teammates, and family at the Houston-area high school.

It goes without saying that the Longhorn coaching staff is elated that they were able to keep one of the top ranked in-state prospects from heading out of state to the likes of Alabama, Miami, or Michigan in 2026.

The 6'2", 230-pound LB/DE-hybrid brings his tenacious, mean streak to Pete Kwiatkowski's defense in 2026, and he's built similarly to how Colin Simmons was coming out of high school in 2024. Okpala has a knack for bursting into the backfield and being incredibly disruptive at an unusually high clip, often from his two-point stance on the edge.

As a junior in 2024 he totaled 55 tackles, 17 TFL, 5 sacks, 21 QB hurries, 2 pass breakups, 2 forced fumbles, and 1 fumble recovery.

"Texas was the right choice because of the coach, staff, players and the connections I've built throughout my recruiting process."
Okpala to Rivals.com

He's primed for a massive season as a senior in 2025, and it's going to be exciting to see how he ends his high school career before officially becoming a Texas Longhorn in 2026.