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2026 DB Markel Ford commits to SMU

On3 imageby:Billy Embody•04/26/25•

BillyEmbody

2026-db-markel-ford-commits-to-smu

Mesquite (Texas) Horn three-star safety Markel Ford has committed to SMU, he announced on Friday after the Mustangs wrapped up spring practices. Ford visited numerous times over his recruitment even when he was committed to Texas A&M, but he decommitted in late March.

Ford is the No. 542 overall prospect and No. 46 safety in the 2026 cycle, according to the On3 Industry Ranking, a weighted average that utilizes all four major recruiting media companies. He’s also the No. 76 player in Texas.

Ford picked up offers from Oklahoma, where he visited this spring, as well as LSU, Texas, USC and others.

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As a junior for Horn, Ford had 45 total tackles, an interception and three pass deflections, per MaxPreps. That followed an impressive sophomore campaign that witnessed four picks and 56 tackles from the Lone Star State defensive back.

Ford joins 2026 Mesquite (Tex.) Poteet defensive lineman Keith Dotie in committing to the Mustangs after its private spring game on Friday. SMU has five commitments on board board now in the 2026 class.

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