The Texas Longhorns struck early in their 2026 recruiting cycle, landing a defensive talent from Louisiana. Four-star CB Hayward Howard Jr. announced his commitment to Texas a few hours ago, choosing the Longhorns over powerhouse programs that include LSU, Miami, and Florida State. His move will, in a way, impact the team’s future secondary and signal the program’s growing influence in a talent-rich state.
Texas Lands 4-Star CB Hayward Howard Jr. as First Defensive Commit of 2026
Howard Jr., a 6’3”, 180-pound cornerback from Edna Karr High School in New Orleans, became the first defensive commitment for Texas in the 2026 class. His decision came after a competitive recruiting battle, with Texas ultimately edging out.
Howard’s commitment marks a significant early win for Texas, particularly for new CBs coach Mark Orphey. Who took over the helm following Terry Joseph’s departure to the NFL earlier this year, a transition that could have disrupted the team’s recruiting momentum. Instead, the coach hit the ground running, building on the foundation Joseph left behind and securing Howard’s pledge.
VIDEO: What is Hayward Howard bringing to the Longhorns?@justinwells2424 and @josephcook89 provide analysis on Texas’ first defensive commitment of the 2026 cycle
FREE video + summary: https://t.co/FMmwMKOV9K pic.twitter.com/bgIPkRhZQp
— Inside Texas (@InsideTexas) May 9, 2025
What Howard’s Commitment Means for Texas’s 2026 Class
With Howard in the fold, Texas’s 2026 recruiting class is starting strong. He joins a group that already includes five-star quarterback Dia Bell, four-star offensive linemen Max Wright, four-star receiver Chris Stewart, Nicolas Robertson, and long-snapper Trott O’Neal.
Howard’s addition as the sixth commit gives the program a balanced class with high-end talent on both sides; the program isn’t done at the cornerback position, either. The coaching staff plans to sign three to four cornerbacks in this cycle, with other top targets like Jermaine Bishop, Jalen Lott, and Samari Matthews still on their list.
A Bright Future for Texas Football
Howard’s journey is just beginning. He has the physical tools, competitive mindset, and cultural fit to thrive at Texas, but his development will be a key factor. If he can add weight to his frame and refine his skills under Orphey’s guidance, he could become a cornerstone of the Longhorns’ secondary when he steps on campus in 2026.
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As the program builds its 2026 class, all eyes will now be on Sarkisian and his staff to see if they can maintain this momentum. With players like Howard leading the way, the program is positioning itself as a force to be reckoned with, both on the recruiting trail and on the field.
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