The Longhorns added more beef to Kenny Baker’s defensive line on Saturday, going east and reaching into the state of Alabama to secure a commitment from 4-star lineman Vodney Cleveland. Cleveland, a 6-4, 308 lb. native of Prattville, Alabama, was offered by the Longhorns last spring and took his official visit to Austin last weekend.
Cleveland, who attends Parker High School in Birmingham, is ranked as the 8th best player in the state of Alabama, the 18th best defensive lineman in the country and the 141st best overall player in the nation according to the 247Sports Composite Rankings.
247Sports National Recruiting Coordinator Cooper Petagna’s assessment of Cleveland:
Quick twitch explosive interior defensive lineman that shows the ability to consistently win with first step quickness and power at the point of attack. Possesses a collegiate ready frame, verified north of 300-pounds that should help him transition to the collegiate game with relative ease. Plays predominantly in an odd front at Parker High School, displaying the ability to play multiple positions on the defensive line, including nose tackle. Plays with outstanding force on the interior, exhibiting the ability to take on and defeat double teams in the run game while also demonstrating a unique ability to generate pass rush as evidenced by his 5.5 sacks as a junior. High floor prospect that projects as an impact starter at the Power Four level possessing the frame and physical ability to provide immediate value on Saturdays.
Cooper Petagna
He received offers from more than 40 programs including Georgia, Auburn, Ohio State, USC, Tennessee, Texas A&M, Oklahoma, Michigan, Florida and Alabama among others.
Cleveland joins out-of-staters Dylan Berymon (6-2, 315 lbs. – Monroe, Louisiana) and Corey Wells (6-5, 300 lbs. – Petal, Mississippi) as defensive line commits in the 2026 recruiting class.
