The recruiting world is heating up, and it feels like watching a high-stakes drama unfold. Steve Sarkisian’s Texas Longhorns just faced a setback after a tough Cotton Bowl loss to Ohio State, but there’s no time to dwell. Sarkisian is now focused on securing one of the top prospects in the nation—a 4-star wide receiver from New Orleans. The twist? Texas A&M, under head coach Mike Elko, is emerging as a major competitor in this recruiting battle, making it a showdown reminiscent of an intense SEC rivalry. The question is: which program will land this highly sought-after recruit?
The player at the center of this showdown is Jabari Mack, a 6-foot-tall, 192-pound wideout who’s ranked as the No. 16 wide receiver in the country and the No. 6 overall prospect in Louisiana, according to 247Sports. Mack is a dynamic talent known for his glue-like hands and smooth route-running skills. With 15 offers from prestigious programs like LSU, Alabama, Michigan, and Ohio State, Mack has plenty of options. However, the race appears to be narrowing down to Texas and Texas A&M.
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Insider Justin Wells recently shared updates on Mack’s recruitment during a segment on On3’s recruiting show. Wells noted that both Texas and Texas A&M are at the top of Mack’s list following recent visits. Mack recently spent time at Texas A&M and reportedly had a great experience, which seems to have given the Aggies some momentum in his recruitment.
Meanwhile, Texas is making its case with an all-encompassing recruiting effort led by head coach Steve Sarkisian and wide receiver coach Chris Jackson. Mack has already visited Austin and had the chance to connect with notable players like quarterback Arch Manning. According to Mack, his meeting with Manning was less about football and more about building a personal connection, which could give Texas a significant edge. The Longhorns have also emphasized their ability to get Mack on the field early, using freshman standout Ryan Wingo as an example.
At the same time, Texas A&M has been equally impressive. Mack’s recent visit to the Aggies’ Junior Day made a strong impression, with the coaching staff giving him and his family personalized attention. The program’s family-oriented atmosphere and attention to detail have left Mack with plenty to consider.
However, no discussion of a Louisiana recruit would be complete without mentioning LSU. The in-state powerhouse is always a looming presence when it comes to top prospects from Louisiana. But Mack has expressed an openness to leaving the state, stating that he has no reservations about exploring opportunities outside Louisiana.
This recruitment is shaping up to be a high-stakes race between Texas and Texas A&M, with LSU and other top programs like Ohio State waiting in the wings. Texas is relying on its rich history and early playing time opportunities to attract Mack, while Texas A&M is leveraging its close-knit culture and recent momentum. LSU, despite being the local favorite, might have to play catch-up if they hope to keep Mack in the Pelican State.
With official visits scheduled to begin in June, the next few months will be crucial in determining Mack’s decision. Both Texas and Texas A&M are pulling out all the stops, but it’s still too early to declare a clear favorite. Will Sarkisian and the Longhorns win the battle, or will Elko and the Aggies pull off a recruiting coup? Alternatively, could LSU swoop in at the last minute and secure Mack’s commitment? The answer remains uncertain, but one thing is clear—this recruiting race is far from over.