Peter Jinkens on Elijah Barnes: "I think with him, it makes their defense a lot more dangerous."
After Peter Jinkens‘ four-year career with the Longhorns ended in 2015, he entered the coaching ranks. He currently serves as the linebacker coach at his alma mater, Dallas Skyline. That’s also the home of 2025 linebacker and newest Texas commit Elijah Barnes, one of Jinkens’ pupils on the Raider defense.
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Inside Texas caught up with Jinkens for his thoughts on Barnes committing, something he called a “full-circle” moment.
1. What makes Elijah special as a player?
Peter Jinkens: “His desire to do more than just what is asked of him and his leadership skills. He really knows how to command a huddle and get the best out of the guys around him.”
2. What type of kid is Texas getting in Barnes?
PJ: “Texas is getting a kid who does things the right way, who is honest, dependable, adaptable and who is just overall a respectable young man.”
3. He made sure to visit Texas to tell Sark in person. What does that say about Elijah?
PJ: “It means he has a lot of respect for Sark and the Texas program. He speaks very highly of coach Sark.”
4. Why is he a great fit for Texas’ defense?
PJ: “I think he is the perfect inside backer for their defense. He can run, he’s physical, and he’s a field general. I think with him, it makes their defense a lot more dangerous.”
5. How cool is it to see a Raider join the Longhorns?
PJ: “It’s definitely cool to think about, a real full circle moment that I will always cherish.”
Barnes is ranked as the No. 108 overall prospect, the No. 14 linebacker, and the No. 19 player in Texas according to the On3 Industry Ranking, a proprietary algorithm that compiles ratings and rankings from all four primary recruiting media services.
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On3 ranks Barnes as the No. 180 overall prospect, the No. 19 linebacker, and the No. 31 player in Texas.
