2025 FIVE-STAR SIGNING: Elijah Barnes Elects to Play College Ball at Texas, Fulfilling a Long-Awaited Commitment
The wait is finally over for the
Longhorns Nation as Elijah Barnes, the
nation’s No. 32 prospect and top-rated
five-star recruit in the class of 2025, has
officially put pen to paper and
committed to the University of Texas.
This highly anticipated decision brings
an end to a prolonged period of suspense
for the Horns, who have been eagerly
anticipating the arrival of this blue-chip
prospect.
Barnes, a 6-foot-7, 215-pound wide
receiver, has been one of the most
sought-after recruits in the class of 2025.
With his exceptional size, athleticism,
and playmaking ability, he has drawn
comparisons to some of the best
receivers in the country. His impressive
resume includes a plethora of highlight-
reel performances, showcasing his
ability to dominate games with his speed,
agility, and hands.
Throughout his high school career,
Barnes consistently displayed his elite
talent, earning All-American honors, and
topping the recruiting rankings. His
dedication to Texas began in 2024 when
he committed to the program, but due to
a change in his recruitment status, he
explored other options. However, in the
end, his commitment to the Longhorns
remained strong, and he has now
officially joined the team.
“I’m honored to have Elijah Barnes join
our program,” Texas head coach Steve
Sarkisian expressed in a statement. “He’s
a talented young man with a passion for
the game, and I’m excited to see him
contribute to our team. His size, speed,
and ability to make plays in the open
field are a threat to any defense, and I
have no doubt he will make an
immediate impact.”
Barnes’s signing is a significant coup for
the Longhorns, who have struggled to
attract top talent in recent years. His
arrival is expected to not only bolster the
receiving corps but also provide a spark
to the offense. With Barnes, Texas now
boasts a talented group of receivers,
including fellow recruits like 2024 four-
star commit, Jaden Jones, and returning
starter, Xavier Worthy.
As the Horns prepare to take the field for
the upcoming season, the addition of
Barnes injects a level of excitement and
anticipation. Fans are eager to see him in
action, and the coaching staff is
confident in his ability to make a
significant impact.
Barnes’s high school coach, Michael
Brown, spoke highly of the young
receiver, stating, “Elijah Barnes is a
special talent, and we’re thrilled to see
him take the next step in his career. He’s
an exceptional player, and he’s got the
work ethic to back it up. He’ll fit in well
with the Texas program, and I’m excited
to see what the future holds for him.”
The Longhorns will look to capitalize on
Barnes’s arrival and use his talent to
drive a push for the national
championship. With his commitment, the
team has taken a significant step in the
right direction, and fans are eager to see
the results on the field.
In the coming weeks and months, Barnes will be expected to adjust to the college game, a transition that can be challenging for even the most talented players. However, with his impressive resume and dedication to the program, he’s poised to make an instant impact.
As for his goals, Barnes has expressed his aspirations to win a national championship with the Longhorns. “I want to be a dominant force in the Big 12, and eventually, help Texas win a championship,” he stated during a press conference. “I’ve worked hard to get to this point, and I’m excited to be a part of this program. I’m ready to put in the work and make a difference on the field.”
With Barnes’s arrival, the Longhorns take a significant step forward, and their fans can now look forward to seeing him take the field and make a lasting impact on the team. As the Horns gear up for the 2025 season, one thing is certain: Elijah Barnes is ready to shine.