Texas makes the final cut for elite pass-rusher out of Florida as 2026 recruiting class takes shape
Steve Sarkisian has the Texas Longhorns in the thick of almost every top 2026 recruiting battle at this early juncture of the offseason. Loaded with NIL money and a roster expected to enter a bit of a youth movement after this coming season, there are opportunities for top talent to enter the program and find […]
Steve Sarkisian has the Texas Longhorns in the thick of almost every top 2026 recruiting battle at this early juncture of the offseason. Loaded with NIL money and a roster expected to enter a bit of a youth movement after this coming season, there are opportunities for top talent to enter the program and find a role.
4-star pass-rusher Trenton Henderson is one of Texas' top targets, and the elite prospect announced his top 10 schools recently. He told On3's Hayes Fawcett that Texas is joined by most of the nation's heavy hitters in his recruitment.
The 6-foot-4, 225-pounder is considering Alabama, Auburn, Florida, Florida State, Georgia, LSU, Michigan, Texas, USC and Vanderbilt.
Henderson is currently ranked as the No. 45 overall prospect and No. 5 EDGE for the 2026 recruiting cycle, according to the On3 Industry Ranking, which averages the evaluations from all four major recruiting media companies. He is also recognized as the No. 5 player in Florida.
This year has been quite active for Henderson, as he has received visits from numerous coaches in January and has taken junior day trips to several of his leading contenders. So far, he has also scheduled official visits to Auburn on May 16 and Alabama on June 6.
During his junior season at Pensacola Catholic, Henderson accumulated impressive stats, including 50 tackles, 18 tackles for loss, 20 quarterback hurries, 10 sacks, and six pass breakups. The Crusaders achieved an eight-win season in 2024, demonstrating their strength at the 2A level in Florida.
Projections consider Auburn and Alabama as the favorites in the race, but upcoming visits and on-campus events can quickly swing an outcome. The Longhorns are involved in a number of battles with 17 offers out on edge prospects.
As of now, Jamarion Carlton and Calvin Carter are the two most likely recruits to commit, but Shaun Scott is also considering Texas alongside USC.
