Texas Hosts Five-Star LB Tyler Atkinson, Top DL James Johnson for Official Visits

The Texas Longhorns are set to host two highly ranked defensive prospects this weekend: five-star linebacker Tyler Atkinson and top defensive lineman James Johnson. Atkinson, the top linebacker in the country and ranked ninth overall, has already visited Clemson, Georgia, and Oregon, with Texas making a strong push led by coaches Steve Sarkisian and Johnny Nansen. Johnson, a 2026 recruit and On3's No. 1 defensive lineman, is returning for an official visit after attending Texas events earlier this year and holds over 40 offers from schools including Georgia and Florida State. Both players have expressed positive impressions of Texas's program and coaching staff, with Atkinson expected to make a decision before his senior year starts. Texas's linebacker recruiting has been uncertain this cycle, making Atkinson's visit particularly important, while Johnson's recruitment remains competitive despite his prior commitment to Syracuse. The Longhorns continue to compete for top talent amid challenges posed by NIL offers from other programs.