Texas offer would 'shake things up' for 4-Star SMU QB commit

This is a busy time of the offseason for Texas football on the recruiting trail. Amid spring practice, Texas is set to host multiple dozen visiting recruits almost every single week/weekend until the Orange-White Game at DKR on April 20.

Texas football increasing communication with 4-Star SMU QB commit Keelon Russell

The spring game on April 20 will be one of the biggest visit weekends for head coach Steve Sarkisian and the Longhorns during spring camp. One of the visitors scheduled to be at Texas's spring game on April 20 who will be on offer watch is the touted four-star Duncanville quarterback and SMU Mustangs commit Keelon Russell.

Communication between Texas and Russell has picked up lately as the blue-chip quarterback from the DFW Metroplex has seen his stock continue to rise on the recruiting trail this offseason. Sarkisian and QB coach AJ Milwee love the talent and raw athleticism that Russell brings.

It's been well-documented lately that Texas is potentially looking at taking two quarterbacks in the 2025 class. Texas already holds a commitment from four-star Saraland (AL) quarterback KJ Lacey in this class.

But the competition isn't something that either quarterback recruit would hypothetically shy away from.

The next logical step for Sarkisian, Milwee, and the Longhorns in this recruitment would be officially offering Russell. Horns247 reported on March 25 (paid content) that the staff is waiting for Russell's in-person visit this spring to further evaluate his fit within the program.

Texas is reportedly "the dream offer" for Russell, and it "would shake things up" in his recruitment entering summer official visits.

Multiple Power Five programs pursuing Russell on the recruiting trail this spring

Texas isn't the only big Power Five program that has picked up its pursuit of Russell on the recruiting trail early this offseason. Not only is he still firm on his commitment to head coach Rhett Lashlee and SMU, but he also has multiple other Power Five college programs pitching him as the top quarterback in their class.

The Oregon Ducks, Alabama Crimson Tide, Florida Gators, and Ole Miss Rebels have all picked up the communication with Russell in the last couple of months.

Russell will officially visit Florida, Ole Miss, and SMU late this spring and in early June. He also plans to see Oregon and Alabama for unofficial trips in April.

Russell shows out at the Elite 11 Austin Regional

At the Elite 11 Austin Regional showcase last weekend, Russell shined as one of the top performers in the event. He impressed with multiple highlight-worthy throws, showing off his timing and arm strength.

Lacey was also in attendance for the Elite 11 Austin Regional on March 24. Rivals ranked Lacey and Russell among the top three performers at the event.

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