In a seismic shift for college football recruiting, Kohen Brown, a highly touted wide receiver from the Class of 2026, has flipped his commitment from the University of Southern California (USC) to the University of Texas. The announcement, made on June 8, 2025, sent shockwaves through the recruiting world, with Brown declaring, “This is home #HookEm,” signaling his allegiance to the Longhorns. This move marks a significant coup for Texas head coach Steve Sarkisian and his staff, as they continue to build a formidable recruiting class.
Kohen Brown, a 6’0”, 190-pound wide receiver from Waxahachie, Texas, is a three-star prospect according to some recruiting services, but his ranking in the Rivals250 underscores his elite potential. Known for his explosive speed, reliable hands, and ability to stretch the field, Brown has drawn comparisons to top playmakers in the nation. His decision to commit to Texas came after an official visit to Austin, where the Longhorns’ coaching staff and program culture evidently left a lasting impression. Brown’s choice to stay in-state over competing offers from powerhouse programs like Notre Dame, Ole Miss, and Utah highlights the pull of Texas’ recruiting momentum.
The flip from USC to Texas is particularly noteworthy given Brown’s prior commitment to the Trojans. USC, under head coach Lincoln Riley, has been a dominant force in recruiting offensive talent, especially at the skill positions. However, Texas’ recent recruiting surge, bolstered by Sarkisian’s vision and the program’s resurgence in the SEC, proved too compelling for Brown to pass up. Posts on X captured the excitement, with multiple sources confirming the commitment and noting that Brown is the second wide receiver to join Texas’ 2026 class, further strengthening their offensive outlook.
Brown’s decision to call Texas “home” resonates deeply with Longhorn fans, as it reflects the program’s emphasis on keeping in-state talent. Waxahachie, located just south of Dallas, is firmly in Longhorn territory, and Brown’s commitment reinforces Texas’ dominance in the region. His addition to the roster is a strategic win, as he brings versatility to an already talented receiving corps. Analysts praise Brown’s ability to run crisp routes and create separation, making him a perfect fit for Sarkisian’s high-octane offensive scheme.
This commitment is part of a broader trend for Texas, which secured three commitments over the same weekend, showcasing their recruiting prowess. The Longhorns’ 2026 class is shaping up to be one of the strongest in the nation, with Brown joining other high-profile recruits. His decision also reflects the growing influence of Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) opportunities, which Texas has leveraged effectively to attract top talent.
As Brown prepares to don the burnt orange, Longhorn fans are buzzing with anticipation. His commitment not only bolsters Texas’ future prospects but also sends a clear message: Austin is becoming a destination for elite talent. With Brown’s skills and Texas’ upward trajectory, the Longhorns are poised to make waves in the SEC and beyond.
