When the NIL (Name, Image, Likeness), Revenue Sharing, and the Transfer Portal were introduced to college football, they changed the landscape, opening doors for programs to rise to prominence, even if they hadn't been dominant before. Schools that masterfully blend high school recruiting with strategic use of the Transfer Portal and make strong pushes on the NIL front are now poised to build playoff contenders year after year.
Texas Tech may not have been an early NIL powerhouse, but in the past year, the Red Raiders have become formidable players in this new game. With Cody Campbell's backing, they've crafted a roster that clinched the Big 12 title, setting a new standard that looks sustainable for seasons to come.
Texas Tech's recruiting momentum is turning heads
Texas Tech made waves with a loaded transfer class, but relying solely on transfers isn't a long-term strategy. Oregon highlighted in the Playoff that it takes multiple offseasons of high-level recruiting to truly build a championship-caliber roster-something Texas Tech is now addressing. Their high school recruiting surge is particularly impressive.
Last offseason, the Red Raiders signed the nation's 19th-ranked recruiting class, featuring two 5-star recruits. This offseason, they're on track to potentially finish with a top 5 recruiting class in the country.
Currently, Texas Tech boasts the nation’s 4th-ranked recruiting class with six committed players. Leading the charge are Jalen Brewster, the nation's top recruit, and Kavian Bryant, the second-ranked quarterback.
Relying heavily on the Transfer Portal each season is a significant investment and presents the challenge of assembling a successful class each offseason. While the portal offers substantial rewards, it's more effective as a supplement to a roster rather than a foundation.
Landing recruits like Jalen Brewster and Kavian Bryant, who would typically join traditional powerhouses, demonstrates how the playing field has leveled. As Texas Tech builds toward becoming a perennial contender, securing elite talent from the high school ranks enhances their chances of competing for national championships.