Texas lands 2026 five-star safety over other top schools

Texas is on a roll. Not only does Steve Sarkisian have the Longhorns primed to be a contender for the College Football Playoff, but he's absolutely loading up on the recruiting trail as well.

Texas' latest commitment is one of its biggest, with the news that Zelus Hicks, five-star safety from Carrollton, Georgia, is committing to coach Sark and his staff.

Texas beat out the likes of in-state Georgia, Ohio State, Auburn and Clemson for Hicks' commitment.

“Texas is a top program. I want to be an impactful player that is competing for championships at a top program like Texas. They are elite with elite players. I can come in, make an impact and help the program keep winning," Hicks told On3 regarding his commitment.

Hicks' aunt lives in Texas, so having family in the area seemingly made Austin an attractive option to him, especially with a program like UGA also in the mix. Keep in mind, Carrollton is only about two hours east of Athens.

The Longhorns did a great job of building a family-like relationship with the five-star safety, though, whether it was Sarkisian or safeties coach Blake Gideon.

"Development under coach Gideon was big in my decision. He has done what I want to do before. He has been in my position, he played at Texas, so he knows what it takes," Hicks explained. “The relationships with the Texas coaches was a big factor too. Coach Gideon, coach Sark and the whole defensive staff has gotten to know me."

According to the 247Sports Composite, Hicks is the No. 3 safety in the 2026 class and the No. 25 recruit in the nation.

He's a massive commitment for the Longhorns and he's their third 2026 recruit.