Texas Longhorns poised for imminent bluechip football commitment

Andrew Nemec

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Texas Longhorns poised for imminent bluechip football commitment image

© Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images

Saturday is decision day for Parker (Alabama) four-star defensive lineman Vodney Cleveland.

The 6-foot-3, 305-pound defensive tackle is rated the nation's No. 52 overall prospect, No. 5 defensive lineman and No. 4 player in the state of Alabama, none of whom have yet come off the board.

That will change shortly.

Cleveland is down to a final four of Auburn, Florida, Georgia and Texas, but most of the buzz has centered around the Gators and Longhorns.

Following a recent official visit to Texas, however, the momentum seems to have shifted in the Longhorns' favor.

The recruiting industry agrees, as On3 gives Texas a 93.8 percent chance of securing Cleveland's commitment. 

What would the Longhorns be getting? 

Here's what 247Sports had to say about him as a prospect:

"Quick twitch explosive interior defensive lineman that shows the ability to consistently win with first step quickness and power at the point of attack. Possesses a collegiate ready frame, verified north of 300-pounds that should help him transition to the collegiate game with relative ease."

"Plays predominantly in an odd front at Parker High School, displaying the ability to play multiple positions on the defensive line, including nose tackle. Plays with outstanding force on the interior, exhibiting the ability to take on and defeat double teams in the run game while also demonstrating a unique ability to generate pass rush as evidenced by his 5.5 sacks as a junior."

"High floor prospect that projects as an impact starter at the Power Four level possessing the frame and physical ability to provide immediate value on Saturdays."

Overall, Texas has 13 pledges in its 2026 recruiting class, a group that is rated No. 21 nationally.

But with roughly half its class still to assemble, Steve Sarkisian's program is expected to take a major leap before December's early signing period. 

That rise is likely to begin Saturday by adding Cleveland, who will be the highest-rated Alabama prospect to come off the board this cycle.

Andrew Nemec

Andrew Nemec has covered high school sports and the recruiting landscape for more than a decade, with an emphasis on the former and current Pac-12 footprint. Nemec, who hosts his own radio show on ESPN-affiliate 1080 The FAN in Portland, Oregon, is a graduate of the University of Oregon's School of Journalism and Communication.