The Texas Longhorns added another lineman when Spring (TX) Westfield offensive tackle Toby Weathersby verbally committed to Head Coach Charlie Strong. Weathersby, who some services have rated as high as the #2 OT in Texas, came to Austin to watch the Horns practice and left committed. The big man gives the Texas a total of nine early commits, including three on the offensive line.
Weathersby’s commitment was important for Strong as he and his staff continue to gain recruiting momentum. The Westfield HS product is ranked as the #19 player in the state and represents another head to head victory over Texas A&M. Coach Strong hosted a number of the state’s elite players this past weekend and nabbing Weathersby was a big win in front of a number uncommitted prospects.
Excuse Joe Wickline for doing backflips. After years of working with bargain bin linemen at Oklahoma State, he is now fishing in the same talent pool as before, but with better gear. To the point, Weathersby soundly matches the body type and frame Joe Wickline prefers to target. In addition to Texas A&M, Weathersby also holds offers from Florida, Oklahoma, Texas Tech, and Wake Forest.
Film Analysis:
Weathersby has great size and strength with a frame to build on. Better still, at 6’4 294 lbs, he doesn’t have a lot of bad weight to overcome.
His film shows quick and nimble feet that aid his ability to get to the second level and punish smaller defenders. Long arms allow him to get inside on his opponent and dictate the battle a majority of the time. His film also shows he has the ability to zone block, base block, and pull to get out in front on wide plays. His best clips are when he base blocks straight ahead on inside runs and overpowers everyone in his path.
Surprising for his age and size, Weathersby actually looks pretty graceful when moving in the open field. He isn’t the plodder that some linemen tend to be at this stage in their development. His athleticism and flexibility are among the best at his position this year. Physically his body is mature and will only take some weight room refining and not a total rebuild once he reaches campus.
From a critical standpoint, Weathersby is still incredibly raw and needs to improve his technique and leverage. He tends to play a little high and hasn’t yet learned how to use his hands to maximize his ability. Fortunately for him, he’ll receive excellent coaching and instruction once he gets to Austin.
Final Verdict:
Weathersby’s pledge is akin to Texas firing a shot across the bow of Texas and A&M. The OT’s commitment represents a positive trend within the elite prospects that are starting to buy in to what Charlie Strong is selling. With his size and athleticism, Weathersby only lacks the proper teaching to become a multi-year starter and possible all conference performer. If he will work to his potential, he will be playing on Sundays in a few years.
