It is the Tom and Jerry chase play that recruiting altogether is! Coaches make bold moves, players plan their next steps, and fans eagerly watch it all unfold. Sometimes, a piece makes an early leap across the board, changing the game entirely. That’s precisely what Texas Longhorns’ latest sensation, Zelus Hicks, has done—choosing to reclassify into the 2025 recruiting class and arrive in Austin ahead of schedule.

Zelus Hicks, a 6-foot-1, 180-pound safety from Carrollton, Georgia, made waves when he committed to Texas on September 12. Ranked as the No. 7 safety in the 2026 recruiting cycle and the No. 54 overall prospect, The dude’s decision to accelerate his path to college football is a testament to both his talent and ambition. His commitment bolsters the Longhorns recruiting class already ranked among the nation’s top five by the On3 Industry Team Recruiting Rankings. “This was about finding the right fit,” the Carrollton native said in a recent interview. “Texas feels like home.”

Family ties undoubtedly played a role in his decision. Hicks’ aunt, Faith Johnson, a prominent figure in Dallas, provided him with a personal connection to the Lone Star State. While his roots remain in Georgia, his move west feels like a homecoming. Add to this Texas head coach Steve Sarkisian’s reputation for developing NFL-caliber talent, and the kid’s choice makes perfect sense.

On the field, the elite 2025 Safety stats speak volumes. After a solid freshman year at Parkview High, where he recorded 28 tackles and two interceptions, Zelus Hicks elevated his game as a sophomore. In a breakout season, he tallied 67 tackles, 5.5 tackles for loss, two sacks, and two forced fumbles. His transition to Carrollton, a powerhouse program with a history of grooming elite players, only underscores his drive to compete at the highest level.

Just like his fellow signal-caller nicknamed “Juju” who’s on his way to play for a prime side, this dude is going to make coach Sarks feel safe with him around. For an elite four-star recruit like him, the Longhorns surely must’ve stomped on some big names.

Who did Texas Longhorns have to beat for Zelus Hicks?

When it came time for the defensive back to make his college commitment, the talented recruit had no shortage of suitors. Programs like Georgia, Auburn, Clemson, and Ohio State all made their pitches, but Hicks ultimately chose Texas—and he’s got his reasons.

“Texas is a top-tier program,” Zelus Hicks himself explained. “I want to compete for championships and make a big impact. They’re elite, with elite players, and I can see myself thriving there.” He credited safeties coach Blake Gideon as a major influence. “Coach Gideon has been where I want to go. He played at Texas, knows what it takes, and his experience will help me develop.”

The relationships with the coaching staff were also a game-changer. “Coach Sark and the whole defensive staff didn’t just recruit me; they got to know me. That really mattered.”