Zelus Hicks is a pivotal addition for the Texas Longhorns’ 2026 recruiting class, marking a significant victory for the program as it builds a foundation for the future. Hicks, a four-star safety from Carrollton (Ga.) High School, is ranked as the No. 8 safety in the country and the No. 10 overall player in the state of Georgia according to 247Sports. His recruitment has been highly competitive, with 29 offers from powerhouse programs such as Georgia, Washington, Michigan, Florida State, Clemson, Auburn, and Georgia Tech.
The Longhorns initially offered Hicks on May 1st, and he quickly became a priority target. He camped in Austin on June 1st, giving the Texas coaching staff a closer look at his skills. His commitment solidifies Texas’ aggressive approach to recruiting elite defensive talent nationally.
Hicks’ sophomore season stats reflect his dynamic abilities on the field, totaling 68 tackles, including 6 for loss, 2 sacks, and 4 pass breakups. He has natural instincts, which allow him to quickly read and diagnose plays. Hicks has a unique ability to anticipate where the ball is going, making him a disruptive force both in coverage and at the line of scrimmage. His range and speed enable him to cover large areas of the field, and he’s a sure tackler in the open field, ensuring that ball carriers don’t slip through.
One of the standout traits of Hicks’ game is his ability as an elite blitzer. He excels at rushing the passer, showcasing an explosive burst off the line and the ability to get into the backfield. His physicality and technique make him a dangerous weapon when sent on blitzes, adding a versatile dimension to his game. This skill set allows him to impact games in multiple ways, whether in run support, pass coverage, or creating havoc in the offensive backfield.
Beyond his physical traits, Hicks plays under control, which means he’s not just a physical player but also a smart one. He makes calculated decisions, rarely putting himself in poor positions, and his natural football instincts enables him to be around the ball consistently.
Zelus Hicks’ commitment is a huge win for Texas. His combination of physical tools, football IQ, and versatility makes him one of the most exciting prospects in the 2026 class. Hicks is set to be a game-changer for the Longhorns, bringing elite-level playmaking ability to the defensive backfield. His addition is a testament to the strong recruiting efforts by Texas and signals that the Longhorns are building a formidable class that can compete at the highest levels of college football.
