Texas continues to build momentum on the recruiting trail with the addition of Samari Matthews, a 4-star cornerback from Hough HS in Cornelius, North Carolina. The 6-foot -1, 195 pound standout committed to the Longhorns over South Carolina, Florida State, and Miami.
Matthews is ranked the No.12 cornerback nationally and the No. 7 overall player in North Carolina, per 247Sports.
Scouting Report
Elite Size and Length
Matthews brings an ideal frame that college programs covet at the cornerback position. At 6-foot-1 with long arms and a well put together build, he fits the mold of a boundary defender who can consistently win physical matchups. His combination of size and balance gives him an edge at the line of scrimmage.
Press Coverage Specialist
He excels in press man coverage, using strong hands and consistent leverage to disrupt routes at the release point. Matthews plays with control and toughness, setting the tone from the first step.
Disciplined and Smart
He shows advanced eye discipline and patience. He maintains solid positioning throughout the route and rarely gets caught out of phase. His understanding of timing and spacing makes him a difficult matchup for any receiver.
Instincts and Ball Skills
Matthews has a quick trigger when driving on the ball and does a great job playing through the hands of receivers. He challenges throws without drawing flags and consistently puts himself in position to make plays.
Run Support and Physicality
He is a dependable tackler who plays with a physical edge. Matthews takes on blocks with confidence and shows the ability to set the edge in run defense.
Projection
Matthews projects as a multi-year starter in the Texas secondary. His size, physicality, and technique give him a high floor, while his competitive traits suggest long term upside as a difference maker at the Power Four level.
Recruiting Impact
With Matthews in the fold, Texas now has 18 commitments in its 2026 class. His decision strengthens an already loaded group and adds another high level defender to the Longhorns’ future plans. Texas continues to make noise on the national stage by pulling in high level recruits.
