There’s been a shakeup in the Texas Tech recruiting landscape, and it centers around one of the biggest names in the 2027 class - literally and figuratively.
Jalen Brewster, the 6'3", 305-pound defensive tackle out of Cedar Hill, Texas, is no longer sounding like a lock for the Red Raiders. The No. 1-ranked defensive lineman in the 2027 cycle and the No. 3 overall player in the Lone Star State has started to cool on his verbal commitment to Tech following the departure of defensive line coach Zarnell Fitch - the staffer he’d built the strongest relationship with during the recruiting process.
When asked directly if he was still solid with the Red Raiders despite Fitch’s exit, Brewster didn’t mince words. His answer?
A simple “No.” Short, but telling - especially from a player who had previously been vocal about his excitement for the program.
This kind of response speaks volumes in recruiting circles. Brewster had been one of the crown jewels of Tech’s future class, and his early commitment was a statement for a program looking to build from the trenches out. But relationships matter, especially in the high-stakes world of recruiting, and Fitch’s departure clearly left a void.
Now, let’s talk about why Brewster is such a coveted prospect.
He’s a rare blend of size, strength, and emerging versatility. At the point of attack, he’s a nightmare for offensive linemen.
With elite upper-body power, Brewster consistently wins leverage battles, stacks and sheds blockers with ease, and controls the line of scrimmage against the run. Simply put: most high school linemen can’t deal with him one-on-one.
But what’s really elevated Brewster’s stock lately is the evolution of his game. Early on, he was more of a pure run-stuffer - a guy who could plug gaps and dominate inside, but didn’t offer much as a pass-rusher.
That’s changed. As a junior, he’s shown flashes of quickness and flexibility, lining up at multiple spots on the line - from 1-tech to 3-tech and even some 4i - and showing the ability to win off the snap with more than just brute force.
That added “wiggle” has turned heads. He’s not just collapsing pockets with power anymore - he’s starting to beat linemen with finesse and technique, which makes him a much more complete prospect. And it’s why he’s flying up recruiting boards nationally.
As for what’s next? Brewster has been in contact with Texas defensive line coach Kenny Baker since last January, and while nothing is official, the Longhorns are definitely a team to watch if Brewster does decide to reopen his recruitment. Whether he flips, decommits, or simply takes his time to reassess, his decision will be one of the most closely watched storylines in the 2027 cycle.
For now, Texas Tech fans are holding their breath - and everyone else is waiting to see where one of the most dominant defensive linemen in the country might land.