Texas recruiting momentum continued to roll when Jenks (OK) tight end Reese Leitao announced his commitment to the Longhorns. Leitao is the 2nd tight end commitment in the class, and the 12th overall. The former Nebraska commit chose Texas over offers from Arkansas, Houston, Duke, LSU, Oklahoma State, Penn State, and several others.
Tom Herman lost a few battles at the beginning of his tenure due to a lack of relationships with prospects on the Texas board. Houston’s recruitment of Leitao allowed the Longhorns to jump in on him late in the game. This commitment also gives Texas more depth at the tight end position following the recent commitment of Cade Brewer. Once Leitao de-committed from Nebraska, it was clear that the Longhorns were going to factor in heavily. Leitao also shows the ability to play defensive end, so the Texas staff could choose to utilize him on the defensive side of the ball if needed. Tom Herman has been able to double the size of this class in just a month on the job, and they will look to come out of the dead period with a full head of steam.
Film Analysis:
Leitao shows good size at 6’4, 234 lbs. His film and testing numbers show him to be a good athlete with the ability to line up at the H-back position, in-line, or flexed out in the slot. Leitao shows good speed and burst for his size, which allows him to attack the middle of the field down the seam. He can be a mismatch for linebackers that can’t deal with his speed, and defensive backs that can’t match up with his size. Leitao shows strong hands, and a natural pass catching ability. His 34 inch vertical indicates explosive ability and translates to the field as Leitao wins numerous jump balls on tape. He’s fluid in space, and shows good body control when attacking balls in the air. Leitao also shows a strong understanding of how to use his size to shield off defenders. He’s still a bit raw in the route running department, and he will need to develop those skills at the next level. Leitao also proves to be a willing and able blocker on tape. He moves well in space to engage the second level of defense, and he uses his hands well to lock on defenders. Leitao shows a mean streak with a knack for finishing off his opponents in the blocking game, and a motor that runs hot. He appears to have good strength, and a strong understanding of leverage, technique, and balance. Of all the tight ends Texas scouted since Herman arrived, Leitao is the most complete prospect at the position.
Final Verdict:
Leitao is a perfect fit for Tom Herman’s offense, and his athletic ability, size, and blocking ability make him a candidate for early playing time. He still has some physical development in front of him, but Leitao has a nice starter kit of skills for a high school tight end prospect. If he reaches his ceiling he should be a guy that starts for multiple years, and plays at an all-conference level. In the new era of the NFL tight end, Leitao has every opportunity to play professionally once his college days are over.
