Breaking News: The Texas Longhorns have just secured a major win, flipping commitment from Temple's highly-rated defensive lineman, Jamarion Carlton! This is a huge boost for the team, but the journey to get here was anything but simple.
Carlton, a standout player from Temple, initially committed to Baylor on July 10th. However, after attending his third consecutive Texas game, the tides turned. He's now officially a Longhorn, and the excitement is palpable.
"Texas just felt like it's going to be the right place to develop me, and just the atmosphere is crazy there man," Carlton shared with Horns247. He also mentioned his eagerness to play for the team.
But here's where it gets controversial... Carlton's decision wasn't made overnight. He'd been contemplating the move for a couple of weeks, influenced significantly by the Texas coaching staff, particularly EDGE coach LaAllan Clark, who made consistent efforts to connect with him.
Carlton, standing at an impressive 6-foot-4.5 and weighing 260 pounds, currently holds the position of No. 89 overall prospect nationally, No. 10 defensive lineman, and No. 12 prospect in Texas, according to 247Sports Composite rankings. This commitment marks the third consecutive recruiting cycle where Texas has secured the state's top EDGE prospect, following in the footsteps of Lance Jackson and Colin Simmons.
Interestingly, while recruited for the EDGE position, Carlton's impressive wingspan and potential to gain weight suggest he could also excel as a true defensive lineman. He's got the frame to grow into a force to be reckoned with!
"[Texas] said I'll basically be able to play all over the D-line," Carlton revealed. "Just got to keep working hard and keep progressing, everything will go well."
Initially, Texas led the recruitment after offering Carlton during a June 1st Elite Camp last year. However, the competition intensified in the spring, with programs like Texas A&M, Baylor, LSU, USC, and SMU vying for his commitment. Ultimately, the Longhorns, led by Steve Sarkisian, LaAllan Clark, and Pete Kwiatkowski, intensified their efforts in May, leading to an official visit in June.
Texas made a strong impression during the official visit, but Carlton ultimately chose Baylor, drawn to the opportunity of staying closer to home. However, as Baylor's season took a turn, Texas re-entered the picture, and Carlton attended the Longhorns' game against Vanderbilt on November 1st, followed by another game on November 22nd. This persistence paid off.
Carlton is set to play in the Navy All-American Bowl in January before enrolling early at Texas.
And this is the part most people miss... 247Sports National Scouting Analyst Gabe Brooks provides an insightful scouting report, highlighting Carlton's physical gifts, athleticism, and potential to play multiple positions. He notes Carlton's quick-twitch athleticism, explosiveness, and high-level playmaking ability. While acknowledging areas for improvement, Brooks projects Carlton as a high-impact player with NFL Draft traits.
What do you think? Will Carlton's commitment significantly impact the Longhorns' defensive line? Do you believe the coaching staff's persistence was the key to securing his commitment? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
