Texas Receives Concerning Message From 5-Star WR as SEC Rival Pushes for Flip

Story by

Nate Lunak

Thu, Jan 1, 2026 ·

2 min read

The Texas Longhorns wrapped up the 2025 college football season on Wednesday with a 41-27 Citrus Bowl win over the Michigan Wolverines . At 10-3, head coach Steve Sarkisian achieved a third straight double-digit-win season.

However, the year was still a bit of a disappointment. Texas entered Week 1 ranked No. 1 in the AP Top 25, but failed to make the College Football Playoff. Now in the offseason, Sarkisian can put his focus on the future.

The Longhorns have already landed three commitments in the 2027 recruiting class. That includes wide receiver Easton Royal out of New Orleans. He committed on Nov. 29.

Texas Longhorns head coach Steve Sarkisian.Jordan Prather-Imagn Images
(Jordan Prather-Imagn Images)

However, several programs are seeking to flip him from the Longhorns. Royal isn't shutting talks down, either, telling Rivals' Steve Wiltfong he's interested in what Lane Kiffin does with the LSU Tigers in 2026.

“Coach Kiffin we’re going to see what they do this season," Royal said. “He hits me up a few times explaining this football season they’re about to go crazy and tear up the stat sheet. I’m excited to see what they can do and I’m going to be paying attention.”

Texas needing to fend off rivals for Royal doesn't come as a major surprise. Royal is a five-star recruit, the No. 1 wide receiver and the No. 7 player in the nation, according to Rivals Industry Rankings.

Kiffin is looking to build up the Tigers' 2027 class , which just has four-star quarterback Peyton Houston. Flipping a five-star wide receiver from an SEC rival would be a big step in the right direction.

For now, though, Texas looks to hold onto Royal until the early signing period, which usually comes in December.

This story was originally published by Athlon Sports on Jan 1, 2026, where it first appeared in the College Football section. Add Athlon Sports as a Preferred Source by clicking here.