The Texas Longhorns just pulled off a recruiting masterstroke, securing the No. 1 class for 2025. At the heart of this success? Five-star defensive lineman Justus Terry, whose commitment to Texas sent shockwaves through the college football world.
Terry’s decision to ditch Georgia for the Longhorns during December’s Early Signing Period wasn’t just surprising—it was borderline seismic. Many had pegged the Manchester, Georgia native as a lock for the Bulldogs, given his proximity to the program and his longstanding ties to their staff. So, why Texas?
Chad Simmons of On3 Sports believes it all boiled down to one thing: NIL (Name, Image, and Likeness) deals. “To put it bluntly, Texas offered a better NIL package,” Simmons claimed this week.
But Terry isn’t letting that narrative fly. Taking to Instagram, the Longhorn freshman fired back, saying, “People will say anything when you don’t give them the full story. The first thing they jump to is NIL.”
While NIL conversations are dominating headlines, there’s no denying Terry’s talent. Ranked as the No. 3 defensive lineman in the country, Terry had suitors from coast to coast. After decommitting from USC last summer, all signs pointed to him staying home in Georgia—until Texas swooped in and flipped the script.
What makes this story even more compelling is what lies ahead. With Terry now officially on campus in Austin, he’s expected to make an immediate impact on a Texas squad brimming with potential. Some are already calling the Longhorns early favorites to win next January’s national championship. And if that happens? Don’t be surprised if Terry ends up staring down his former home-state Bulldogs on the biggest stage.
Was it NIL that sealed the deal? Or did Terry see something special brewing in Austin? Either way, his decision has added even more intrigue to what promises to be an unforgettable season for the Longhorns—and one more reason fans will be glued to their screens come fall.
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