FORT WORTH, TX — In a significant coup that underscores the undeniable momentum of the Texas Longhorns football program, five-star offensive lineman John Turntine III from North Crowley High School has officially committed to the University of Texas. The announcement, made public on Friday, July 4, 2025, instantly elevates the Longhorns’ 2026 recruiting class and signals their continued prowess in securing top-tier talent, particularly from within the deeply competitive state of Texas. Turntine chose the Longhorns over a formidable list of national and in-state heavyweights, including Michigan, Texas A&M, and Stanford, reinforcing Head Coach Steve Sarkisian’s vision for building an SEC-ready powerhouse.
John Turntine III, standing at an imposing 6-foot-4 and 285 pounds, is widely regarded as one of the elite offensive line prospects in the entire 2026 recruiting cycle. He is consistently ranked among the top interior offensive linemen in the nation, with Rivals placing him as the No. 2 IOL in the ’26 class and On3’s Industry Ranking slotting him at No. 2 as well, while 247Sports ranks him as the No. 3 offensive lineman nationally and the No. 3 overall player in Texas. His physical attributes, combined with his high football IQ and impressive athleticism for his size, make him a transformative player for any collegiate program. He played a pivotal role in North Crowley’s run to a 6A state championship in 2024, showcasing his ability to perform on the biggest stages of Texas high school football.
Head Coach Steve Sarkisian and offensive line coach Kyle Flood have consistently emphasized the critical importance of building an elite offensive line, particularly as the Longhorns navigate their new home in the Southeastern Conference. The SEC is a league won in the trenches, demanding powerful, athletic, and technically sound offensive and defensive linemen. Turntine’s commitment is a direct reflection of this strategic imperative.
Coach Flood’s impact on this recruitment cannot be overstated. Known for his ability to develop offensive line talent, Flood forged a strong relationship with Turntine and his family. Sources close to the recruitment indicated that Texas’s detailed plan for Turntine’s development, both on and off the field, was a major selling point. The Longhorns’ staff communicated a clear vision for how Turntine would be utilized, how his body would be reshaped for the collegiate level, and the pathway to professional success. This meticulous approach, described by Turntine’s father as “immaculate” and that Texas “didn’t over-recruit him,” speaks to the authenticity and depth of their recruitment strategy. It’s a testament to the belief that trust and a clear developmental path can often outweigh the flashier pitches of other programs.
Turntine’s simple yet profound statement, “I was never an out-of-state child,” succinctly encapsulates the deep-seated loyalty many top Texas prospects feel towards their home state and its premier university. This sentiment is a powerful weapon in Texas’s recruiting arsenal, even as the landscape shifts with NIL and the transfer portal. For John Turntine III, the decision to stay in Texas meant:
- Proximity to Family: His sister is a recent graduate of the University of Texas, and two other siblings currently attend Huston-Tillotson University in Austin. This existing family connection to the city provided an immediate sense of comfort and belonging, making Austin feel like an extension of home.
- Deep-Rooted Culture: Texas high school football is more than just a game; it’s a way of life. Playing for the Texas Longhorns allows athletes like Turntine to continue to be local heroes, representing their communities on a grander stage within a culture they understand implicitly.
- Unparalleled Fan Base and Atmosphere: The Longhorns boast one of the most passionate and loyal fan bases in college football. The atmosphere at Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium is electric, and for a young player, the opportunity to play in front of such dedicated support is a significant draw.
- The SEC in Texas: The move to the SEC has amplified the appeal of Texas. Now, top in-state recruits can compete in the toughest conference in college football, against perennial national championship contenders, all while remaining close to their roots. This combination is a formidable selling point that few other schools can offer.
Turntine’s commitment is a massive win for Texas, particularly given the caliber of the programs they bested:
- Michigan: The reigning national champions, known for their bruising offensive line play, made a strong bid. Texas winning this head-to-head battle against a program at the very top of the college football hierarchy showcases their growing national recruiting footprint and ability to compete with anyone.
- Texas A&M: The in-state rivalry with the Aggies is intensely competitive, especially now that both programs are in the SEC. Winning a direct recruiting battle for a top-tier Texas offensive lineman like Turntine over A&M is a significant symbolic and practical victory for the Longhorns, asserting their continued dominance within the state.
- Stanford: While not a traditional football powerhouse, Stanford offers an elite academic profile that appeals to certain recruits. Turntine’s consideration of Stanford highlights his commitment to academics alongside athletics, and Texas’s ability to offer a compelling “complete package” that satisfied both aspects.
Turntine’s commitment further fuels the impressive momentum of the Longhorns’ 2026 recruiting class. This significant addition comes hot on the heels of other key commitments, including four-star linebacker Kosi Okpala and four-star offensive tackle Maximus Wright. The class, which is already ranked in the top 10 nationally by major recruiting services (e.g., On3.com has them at No. 7 as of July 4, 2025, after Turntine’s commitment), is poised to climb even higher with more expected additions.
This commitment is also particularly timely. It occurred just hours after Texas surprisingly missed out on five-star offensive tackle Felix Ojo, who chose Texas Tech. This immediate rebound with another elite offensive line prospect demonstrates the resilience and depth of Steve Sarkisian’s recruiting plan. It shows that the Longhorns have multiple high-caliber targets at each position and can quickly pivot when one recruitment doesn’t go their way.
John Turntine III’s commitment is a monumental achievement for the Texas Longhorns. It brings elite talent to a critical position, reaffirms the program’s ability to retain top in-state prospects, and signals a formidable future as they solidify their presence in the SEC. The message from North Crowley is clear: the best talent in Texas wants to play for the Longhorns, and they’re ready to lay the foundation for future championships in Austin.
