Four-Star LB Jelani McDonald commits to Texas

Four-star linebacker Jelani McDonald of Waco (TX) Connally High announced his commitment to Texas Saturday afternoon.

The 6-foot-3, 203 pounder chose the Longhorns over TCU and Oklahoma State.

McDonald on why he chose Texas

“I felt comfortable with where it is. I feel like if something were to happen to me then my mom would be able to see me faster then if I would commit to OSU. I like Coach Choate and he allowed me to sit In one of the film sessions and he gave me a lot of information in a small amount of time and I needed that. I am comfortable with how Coach dark wants to run things and he shows that he cares about his players on and off the field from the best person on the team to the worst so overall I was just comfortable with being in Austin.

What it means to stay home

“It feels good knowing that I’m basically putting on for the state, it’s just a blessing.”

Jelani McDonald Scouting Summary

“Gifted multi-sport and multi-positional athlete with a big frame and considerable growth potential. Measured over 6-foot-2, and a lean 190 pounds with a 6-foot-6 wing-span prior to his senior season. Pairs the high-end frame and length with outstanding overall athleticism. State champion in the triple jump as a junior with a 48-2 mark. District MVP in basketball as a junior, showing above the rim bounce while leading his team to a deep playoff run. Transfers that athleticism over to the gridiron where he works as a smooth dual-threat quarterback for his high school. Shows good play speed and a long stride capable of pulling away from defenders. Remains to be seen where he ends up at the next level, but projects as a back seven defender. Could play corner, safety or potentially grow into a linebacker. The frame, athletic profile and smooth movement patterns point to a high ceiling. Also younger for the class, not turning 18 until May of 2023.”

McDonald ranks as the No. 137 player in the On3 Consensus, a complete and equally weighted industry-generated average that accounts for all four major recruiting sites. He also tabs in as the No. 12 linebacker and the No. 30 player in the state of Texas.