Recruiting is essentially a Tom and Jerry chase play! Coaches make daring decisions, players strategize their future movements, and spectators excitedly watch it all happen. Sometimes a piece makes an early move across the board, completely transforming the game. That is exactly what the Texas Longhorns’ latest phenomenon, Zelus Hicks, has done by reclassifying into the 2025 recruiting class and arriving in Austin ahead of schedule.
Zelus Hicks, a 6-foot-1, 180-pound safety from Carrollton, Georgia, made headlines when he committed to Texas on September 12. Ranked as the No. 7 safety in the 2026 recruiting cycle and the No. 54 overall prospect, The Dude’s decision to hasten his collegiate football career demonstrates both his talent and drive. His dedication strengthens The Longhorns’ recruiting class is already among the top five in the country, according to the On3 Industry Team Recruiting Rankings. “This was all about finding the right fit,” the Carrollton native explained in a recent interview. “Texas feels like home.” Family ties undoubtedly influenced his decision. Hicks’ aunt, Faith Johnson, a renowned Dallas personality, gave him a personal connection to the Lone Star State. While his roots are in Georgia, moving west feels like a homecoming. With Texas head coach Steve Sarkisian’s reputation for developing NFL-caliber athletes, the kid’s decision makes perfect sense.
On the field, the top 2025 Safety metrics say words. After a strong freshman year at Parkview High, when he registered 28 tackles and two interceptions, Zelus Hicks improved his game as a sophomore. He had a career season, recording 67 tackles, 5.5 tackles for loss, two sacks, and two forced fumbles. His move to Carrollton, a great program with a reputation of developing elite athletes, only emphasizes his desire to compete at the highest level.
This guy, like his colleague signal-caller called “Juju” who is on his way to play for a top team, will make coach Sarks feel safe with him around. For an excellent four-star prospect like him, the Longhorns must have stomped on some major names.
Who did the Texas Longhorns have to fight to get Zelus Hicks?
When it came time for the outstanding defensive back to commit to college, he had plenty of offers. Georgia, Auburn, Clemson, and Ohio State all made offers, but Hicks finally chose Texas—and he had his reasons.
“Texas is a top-tier program,” Zelus Hicks himself stated. “I want to compete for championships and have a significant influence. They’re exceptional, with elite players, and I can see myself succeeding there.” He recognized Blake Gideon, the safeties coach, as a key influence. “Coach Gideon has been where I want to be. He played at Texas, understands what it takes, and his expertise will help me grow.” The relationships with the coaching staff were also game changers. “Coach Sark and the entire defensive staff not only recruited me, but also got to know me. That really mattered.”
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