Good News: Steve Sarkisian Announced the Signing of the Four-star Defensive Tackle…

In a significant recruiting win, Folsom (Calif.) defensive tackle Josiah Sharma has flipped his commitment from the Oregon Ducks to the Texas Longhorns. This marks the first major pledge for Longhorns’ position coach Kenny Baker, signaling a rebound on the recruiting trail.

Journey to Texas

Sharma initially committed to Oregon less than a month ago, choosing the Ducks over the Longhorns, Alabama’s Crimson Tide, and the Washington Huskies. Each of these schools hosted Sharma on official visits in the weeks leading up to his decision.

Texas had extended an offer to Sharma in February and hosted him for an unofficial visit in March. Sharma returned to the Texas campus for an official visit on June 7, which was pivotal in swaying his decision.

Sharma’s recruitment journey began with a commitment to Washington on New Year’s Day, during the Huskies’ Sugar Bowl matchup against the Longhorns. However, after Washington head coach Kalen DeBoer left for Alabama, Sharma decommitted just four weeks later.

Decision Factors

Reflecting on his recruitment process, Sharma shared, “Honestly, it was a great opportunity for me—it gave me a chance to re-establish what I needed in a college.”

Oregon initially appealed to Sharma with the prospect of developing close to home. However, new Texas defensive line coach Kenny Baker managed to secure Sharma’s commitment weeks later, making him Baker’s first pledge since replacing Bo Davis. Despite missing out on four other defensive tackle targets recently, Baker’s successful recruitment of Sharma is a promising development.

Sharma’s Impact and Future

Standing at 6’4.5″ and weighing 325 pounds, Sharma is a consensus four-star prospect. According to the 247Sports Composite rankings, he is the No. 245 player nationally and the No. 30 defensive lineman. Sharma’s addition makes him the 16th commitment in a class that now ranks No. 13 in the country.

Despite this win, the Longhorns still seek both quantity and quality at the defensive tackle position. Bellville’s DJ Sanders remains a top target for Texas as they continue to build their roster for the upcoming seasons.