TEXAS SIGNS FIVE-STAR CORNERBACK JOHN MEREDITH III EARLY

John Meredith III has reclassified from the 2027 recruiting class to join Texas this summer, head coach Steve Sarkisian confirmed on Thursday at SEC media days. The cornerback, who recently turned 18, was ruled ineligible to play his senior season at secondary school after transferring schools. Meredith is now ranked as the No. 4 cornerback prospect in the 2026 class and the No. 4 recruit in Texas, according to Rivals. The Fort Worth native has an estimated name, image and likeness value of $1.5 million.

Meredith transferred from Trinity to North Crowley Secondary school in spring, but the University Interscholastic League ruled the move was for athletic reasons, rendering him ineligible for the upcoming season. He appealed the decision in July, but the ruling was upheld. Meredith is one of two top-five in-state recruits joining Texas this autumn, alongside defensive lineman Jamarion Carlton, ranked No. 5 in Texas. Texas' secondary has lost three starters from the previous season and allowed opposing quarterbacks to complete over 62 per cent of their throws for an average of 235 yards per game in 2025, compared to under 60 per cent completion and 174 yards in 2024.

Sarkisian indicated Meredith would join the roster but did not commit to immediate playing time. The coach stated that when Meredith is ready, he will be capable of playing, but timing remained uncertain—potentially Week 1, Week 4 or Week 8 of the season. Texas has recruited defensive backs Kade Phillips and Bo Mascoe in recent years to address secondary depth.