Texas 'pushing hard' to keep SEC rivals away from elite in-state foundational star

Originally posted on A to Z Sports | By Ian Valentino | Last updated Apr 15, 2025 11:28 PM ET

Steve Sarkisian is looking to extend Texas' excellent run of producing impact defensive backs by prioritizing a certain in-state target. Houston, Texas, four-star safety Chace Calicut is being pursued by most of the top programs in the nation, with SEC teams particularly working overtime to steal him from Texas.

However, it appears' the Longhorns' efforts are giving them an advantage.

Ole Miss, Texas, Michigan and Washington are "pushing hard" for the Lone Star State native, according to On3 Sports' Chad Simmons. Despite that, Texas just earned a crystal ball prediction to land Calicut from 247Sports.

Texas pick for Chace Calicut ()

⭐⭐️⭐️⭐️ 2026 S
✍️ By Mike Roach
️ 6 (Medium)#247Sports #AllGas26⛽️‍♂️ #HookEm
— Texas Longhorns Crystal Ball (@UTCrystalBall) April 3, 2025

There's a long lineage of elite Longhorns safeties that goes back decades, so it's never a surprise when top defensive back prospects wind up in Austin. Sarkisian has maintained the program's momentum with strong secondaries since taking over. Calicut would be a feather in his cap.

Calicut is set to make several official visits this summer, with the Rebels planning one in June as they ramp up their recruiting efforts.

He will also be visiting the Washington Huskies officially in June, as noted on Calicut's social media.

Standing at 6-foot-3 and weighing 190 pounds, he has established himself as an excellent lockdown defensive back, utilizing his length to gain an edge on the field.

Following an impressive junior season, it’s clear why top college programs across the nation are eager to secure his commitment.

This article first appeared on A to Z Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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