Former Clemson LB commit RJ Hudson is a Longhorn: 'It is Texas'

Texas has been in search of linebackers in its 2027 class, and Steve Sarkisian and his staff went into Virginia to get him. Richmond (Va.) Varina three-star linebacker R.J. Hudson has committed to the Longhorns, becoming commitment No. 22 for Texas’ top-10 recruiting class.

The 6-foot-2, 205-pound defender was previously committed to Clemson, but the Longhorns made a strong push over the past few months and ultimately convinced him to head to Austin.

Hudson chose Dabo Swinney and the Tigers in late spring. Clemson had established itself as his top choice, but Texas entered the picture during the summer and began building a relationship with the talented linebacker.

As the season got underway, the Longhorns increased their pursuit.

Texas was in search of playmakers on the second level, and Hudson emerged as a prospect the staff wanted. The Longhorns turned up the heat, and Hudson backed off his Clemson commitment and reopened his recruitment.

Texas quickly became the program to watch.

Hudson took his official visit to Austin over the weekend, giving Sarkisian and his staff another opportunity to strengthen their position. They did just that.

Right after the visit ended on Sunday, Hudson told Rivals, “I just committed to Texas. The visit sealed it.”

The Longhorns had already generated significant momentum, and he saw the Longhorns take down Ole Miss, he got a look at the program and he knows he wants to be a part of it.

“It is Texas — everything is bigger, and the state is set to do big things. I like that.”

The program’s tradition and the players who have come through Austin were also major attractions.

“They have had some great players, and I am a fan of guys who came from there,” Hudson said.

Hudson switched from one orange to another and from the ACC to the SEC. He is a needed commitment for Will Muschamp and the defensive staff.