Texas has never been shy about pursuing elite talent, but the Longhorns made a massive statement this week by offering the No. 1 linebacker in the 2027 class—who just happens to be the son of a Dallas Cowboys legend. In a move that instantly reverberated across college football recruiting circles, Texas officially extended a scholarship offer to Elijah Lewis, the son of former Cowboys All-Pro linebacker Dexter Lewis, a name well-known in NFL history and iconic within the state of Texas. This isn’t just another blue-chip prospect being courted by a powerhouse program. This is legacy and dominance intertwining, with Texas planting its flag early in what could be one of the most high-profile recruiting sagas of the 2027 cycle.
Elijah Lewis has already made waves in recruiting despite being just a rising junior. At 6-foot-3 and 225 pounds, he plays the game with a mixture of finesse and ferocity that mirrors his father’s playing style. He’s a true sideline-to-sideline force who displays rare instincts, fluidity in coverage, and bone-rattling tackling ability. College scouts have raved about his football IQ, leadership, and athleticism—qualities that have made him the consensus No. 1 linebacker in his class. While most 2027 prospects are still introducing themselves to the national stage, Lewis is already being compared to some of the best linebackers in recent memory.
For Texas, this offer is more than just a football move. It’s a symbolic declaration that the Longhorns are all-in on building a defense that can compete with the elite teams in college football. Under head coach Steve Sarkisian and defensive coordinator Pete Kwiatkowski, Texas has made strides on that side of the ball, and securing a generational talent like Lewis would send a clear message that the Longhorns plan to dominate recruiting inside their own state borders—and beyond. Lewis plays for Dallas South Oak Cliff, one of the most talent-rich programs in the country. It’s a pipeline that the Longhorns have sought to strengthen in recent years, and offering Lewis this early is an attempt to build a long-term relationship with both the player and the powerhouse program he represents.
What makes this pursuit even more intriguing is the legacy element. Dexter Lewis played 13 seasons with the Cowboys, earning Pro Bowl honors five times and helping lead one of the NFL’s most feared defenses. He was known for his intimidating presence, elite speed, and unrelenting motor—traits that are quickly becoming hallmarks of his son’s game. Having grown up in the shadows of AT&T Stadium and around Cowboys legends, Elijah Lewis has a deep appreciation for Texas football culture. Yet, despite the hometown roots, the recruiting battle for Lewis is expected to be intense and national in scope.
Schools like Alabama, Georgia, USC, and Ohio State have already shown strong interest in Lewis, and he’s expected to be one of the most sought-after prospects in the country over the next two years. While Texas is the first in-state power to officially offer, others like Texas A&M, TCU, and Baylor are also likely to jump into the fray. But Texas is hoping that the early move, combined with proximity to home and a shared connection to the state’s rich football heritage, can give them a meaningful edge.
The Longhorns are also counting on momentum to play a role. Texas is coming off one of its most successful seasons in recent memory, including a College Football Playoff appearance and a strong showing on the recruiting trail. The program has generated renewed energy and optimism, and landing Lewis would be yet another sign that the Longhorns are reestablishing themselves as a national powerhouse.
For Lewis, the decision will likely come down to more than just football. The family legacy, culture, coaching, academics, and opportunity to contribute early will all play critical roles. Those close to the situation say that Elijah is mature beyond his years and isn’t the type to be swayed purely by hype or NIL money, although he is sure to receive substantial offers from collectives nationwide. Instead, he’s said to be focused on development, fit, and the ability to build his own name while respecting the one that came before him.
It’s worth noting that Texas has done well in recent years recruiting sons of former NFL players. That trend isn’t just coincidence—it’s part of a broader strategy. The coaching staff has emphasized relationships, long-term development, and NFL preparation, which resonates with families that understand the grind of professional football. Bringing in someone like Elijah Lewis would be another feather in the cap for a recruiting department that has significantly elevated its game since Sarkisian’s arrival in Austin.
Despite being just a sophomore, Lewis has already recorded multiple 100-tackle seasons and has shown the ability to dominate against top-tier competition. Whether it’s stuffing the run, dropping into coverage, or coming off the edge as a blitzer, Lewis does it all. His film has gone viral in coaching circles, and several scouts have said that he’s already better than many linebackers at the college level. He has even taken on a leadership role in his program, organizing offseason workouts and setting a standard for preparation that mirrors what his father instilled in him at a young age.
The name Lewis carries weight in Texas, and now, the next generation is carving out its own legacy. For the Longhorns, this is about seizing a unique opportunity. There’s an undeniable buzz around the idea of a Lewis patrolling the Texas defense, wearing burnt orange and playing just a few miles from where his father became a household name. It’s the kind of narrative that energizes a fan base and adds sizzle to the recruiting trail.
