Texas lands a dedication from four-star CB Hayward Howard Jr.

Texas got here on robust with 2026 cornerback Hayward Howard Jr. — and made a final influence.

The four-star cornerback gave a dedication to Steve Sarkisian and the Longhorns on Friday because the spring winds down.

Texas edged out LSU, Florida State, and Miami for Rivals’ No. 33-rated CB out of The Boot — and has been trending up with Howard since his first talk over with out to the Forty Acres in April.

“The Texas coaching staff made a huge impression on me this spring. They didn’t waste time — they showed belief in my abilities and made it clear that I fit into their vision,” Howard advised Rivals. “That level of confidence, support, and connection made me feel ready to pull the trigger. I’m not just choosing a school, I’m choosing a culture and a program that sees my value.”

First-year Longhorns cornerbacks trainer Mark Orphy wasted no time extending an be offering to the 6-foot-2, 180-pound CB from New Orleans (La.) Edna Karr in a while after taking the task at Texas.

Howard used to be on campus in April for Longhorn City Limits getting a more in-depth take a look at the Longhorns — as perennial championship contenders with a successful tradition that he is conversant in.

“Everything is bigger in Texas — and that includes expectations, energy, and opportunity,” he detailed. “What stood out to me most is how their practices remind me of home. The intensity, the structure, the pace — it felt a lot like Edna Karr, and that made me feel like I already belonged.”

“My visit to Austin opened my eyes to how much Texas invests in their players — from the top-tier facilities to the relationships the coaches build with each athlete,” Howard persevered. “Talking to Coach Sarkisian was real. He spoke about growth, not just as a player, but as a man. That hit home.I also loved seeing so many Louisiana natives on the staff and team — it reminded me that my roots still matter.”

Texas has plentiful avid gamers, coaches, and team of workers individuals with ties to Louisiana.

Longhorns GM Brandon Harris is from The Boot. So is Texas’ beginning QB Arch Manning and protection Derek Williams.

Similarly, Howard discovered his have compatibility in Austin.

“I’m choosing Texas because they’re about development, family, and doing it big,” he stated. “I’m ready to be a Longhorn because they see my potential, and I see a future in Burnt Orange.”