Texas snags elite RB recruit over top rivals

The Texas Longhorns are on the board for four-star running back James Simon out of Shreveport, Louisiana.

Ranked as the No. 10 running back recruit in the 2025 class, according to 247Sports, Simon will go down as a huge commitment for Steve Sarkisian and the Longhorns. Not only is his national ranking a reason for the Longhorns to be excited, but there are implications in this recruiting win.

LSU was at one point a favorite to land Simon's commitment. In fact, the Tigers were one of the finalists for the running back right out of their backyard, to go along with Texas, Notre Dame, Texas A&M and Alabama.

The Longhorns prevailed partly because Simon really believes in what Sarkisian has built in Austin, though.

“I definitely think they’re going to be one of the best programs in the nation,” Simon told On3 of his new college football home. “After making the College Playoff last year, I could say that they already were, but they’re now definitely going to be one of those teams that are contending for a national championship almost every year. I feel like it’s going to be like that for a pretty long time.”

The Longhorns also won over Simon with relationships. Specifically, Sarkisian and running backs coach Tashard Choice really worked to build a connection with the talented back.

He could also see how he could be successful at Texas. Remember that this Texas regime has produced two NFL-ready backs in Bijan Robinson and Jonathon Brooks.

"The way coach Sarkisian talked to me about how he’s going to use me and how he sees me fitting in the offense, it was something I couldn’t say no to," Simon said.

As a junior for Calvary Baptist Academy, Simon rushed for 1,600 yards and 21 touchdowns off the strength of 8.3 yards per carry. He also added 20 catches for 214 yards and three touchdowns.