Texas is the Only Program with Three No. 1 Recruits at Their Position in the 2026 Class
Just when everyone thought the sky was falling, Coach Steve Sarkisian and his staff reminded Longhorn Nation: don’t panic. Just like in every other cycle—we get our guys. And not just any guys—they’re getting elite, high-quality talent. In fact, Texas is the only program in college football with three No. 1 players at their position in the Rivals Industry Ranking already committed in the 2026 class. The Longhorns are taking, as they’ve always done under Sark, a precise and strategic approach to the 2026 recruiting cycle—and it’s paying off in a big way.
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Texas has landed three Rivals Industry Ranking No. 1 players at their position, a feat few programs can match:
Dia Bell, the No. 1 quarterback in the country, is an Elite 11 MVP and the ultimate field general.
Tyler Atkinson, the No. 1 linebacker, brings elite speed, range, and leadership to the second level.
James Johnson, the No. 1 defensive tackle in the 2026 class, is a dominant force in the trenches with five-star explosiveness and power.
But it doesn’t stop there. Texas is filling each position room with high-end prospects who fit the vision of the future.
Richard Wesley, a former 2027 No. 1 EDGE, reclassified to 2026 and remains a top-five player nationally at his position.
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John Turntine III, a top-five offensive lineman, projects as a future starter with tremendous upside.
Jermaine Bishop, who I believe is a six-star talent, continues to rise in the national rankings and is already listed as a top-five athlete.
Even special teams has elite reinforcements. Texas holds commitments from Mikey Bukaskis and Trott O’Neal, both ranked in the top five at punter and kicker, respectively.
This class isn’t about stacking numbers—it’s about stacking difference-makers. Sark and staff are plucking elite talent that complements a loaded current roster. The result? A foundation built not just for 2026, but for sustained national championship contention.
