ART BRILES ANNOUNCES 2015 BAYLOR FOOTBALL SIGNING CLASS
Twenty student-athletes sign National Letters of Intent to play for back-to-back Big 12 Champions.
WACO, Texas - Baylor head coach Art Briles announced Wednesday the signing of 20 student-athletes to National Letters of Intent to play football for the defending back-to-back Big 12 champions. The 2015 signing class is comprised of 18 high school standouts and two junior college transfers.
"We've reached the point now with our program, fortunately, where recruiting is all about filling the needs that we have, instead of just trying to get the best available," Briles said. "So from that standpoint we certainly feel, as we continue increasing our depth level and talent level, that we're filling the needs of our football team with quality athletes and quality players that fit what we're looking for."
The class includes five prep All-Americans, a 2015 USA Football national team member, as well as an additional former top-200 national recruit.
The quintet of All-Americans is made up of U.S. Army All-American wide receiver Blake Lynch of Gilmer (Texas) High School, Under Armour All-Americans Jarrett Stidham, a quarterback from Stephenville (Texas) High School and punter/kicker Drew Galitz of Rowlett (Texas) High School, Semper Fidelis All-American running back JaMycal Hasty of Longview (Texas) High School, and MaxPreps Small School All-American offensive lineman Riley Daniel of Ringling (Okla.) High School.
Receiver Devontre Stricklin of nearby Midway High School in Hewitt, Texas, is a member of the 2015 USA Football squad, and offensive lineman Maurice Porter of Navarro College is a national top-200 prospect from the 2013 recruiting class.
Briles singled out the five defensive backs and four linebackers signed as targeted position groups, as well as four offensive linemen.
"The back end and linebacker, defensively, and the o-line from the offensive standpoint, are areas where we concentrated," Briles said. "Quite honestly, it's pretty well spilt between offense and defense with special teams in there. We were a little low number-wise on how many we could sign this year, but we certainly believe everything's going to work out."
This year's class also includes two players from previous Baylor signing classes, Devonte Jones, an offensive lineman from Houston's Bellaire High School from the 2014 class, and Porter from 2013.
Baylor's 2015 class is once again made up predominantly of Texas recruits (17 of 20 from in-state schools) and includes four student-athletes currently enrolled in Baylor's spring semester who will participate in 2015 spring drills (scheduled to begin Feb. 23): mid-year junior college signee Dominic DeSouza (OL from City College of San Francisco) and three early high school enrollees, Devonte Jones, Lynch and Stidham.
BAYLOR FOOTBALL 2015 SIGNEES
Name Pos Ht Wt Class Hometown (previous schools)
Henry Black DB 5-11 180 Fr. Shreveport, La. (Woodlawn HS)
Riley Daniel OL 6-5 310 Fr. Ringling, Okla. (Ringling HS)
Drew Galitz P/K 5-10 180 Fr. Rowlett, Texas (Rowlett HS)
JaMycal Hasty RB 5-8 185 Fr. Longview, Texas (Longview HS)
Jameson Houston DB 6-1 190 Fr. Austin, Texas (St. Michael's Academy)
Tyrone Hunt DL 6-3 235 Fr. Arp, Texas (Arp HS)
Clay Johnston LB 6-2 200 Fr. Abilene, Texas (Wylie HS)
Lenoy Jones Jr. LB 5-10 215 Fr. Waco, Texas (Midway HS)
J.W. Ketchum DB 6-0 190 Fr. Houston, Texas (Lamar HS)
Tony Nicholson DB 5-9 170 Fr. Grand Prairie, Texas (South Grand Prairie HS)
Eric Ogor LB 6-0 215 Fr. Richmond, Texas (Foster HS)
Maurice Porter OL 6-7 315 Jr. Missouri City, Texas (Marshall HS / Navarro College)
Devontre Stricklin WR 6-1 180 Fr. Waco, Texas (Midway HS)
Sam Tecklenburg ATH 6-3 280 Fr. Plano, Texas (Plano HS)
Jordan Tolbert DB 5-10 160 Fr. Missouri City, Texas (Ridge Point HS)
Jordan Williams LB 6-0 210 Fr. Paris, Texas (Paris HS)
SPRING ENROLLEES
Dominic DeSouza OL 6-7 300 Jr. Pacifica, Calif. (Terra Nova HS / City College of San Francisco)
Devonte Jones C 6-2 305 Fr. Houston, Texas (Bellaire HS)
Blake Lynch WR 6-2 195 Fr. Gilmer, Texas (Gilmer HS)
Jarrett Stidham QB 6-3 195 Fr. Stephenville, Texas (Stephenville HS)
2015 BAYLOR FOOTBALL SIGNING CLASS BREAKDOWN:
By State:
Texas (17)
California (1)
Louisiana (1)
Oklahoma (1)
By Position:
Offense (8 - 4 linemen, 2 receivers, 1 running back, 1 quarterback)
Defense (10 - 1 lineman, 4 linebackers, 5 backs)
Athlete (1)
Specialist (1)
By Class:
Freshmen (18)
Sophomores (0)
Juniors (2)
HENRY BLACK
DB - 5-11, 180 - Shreveport, La. (Woodlawn HS)
Two-time all-state two-way athlete from Woodlawn High School in Shreveport, La Played cornerback and receiver under head coach Jerwin Wilson at Woodlawn National position ranking among cornerback prospects: 65th by Rivals, 88th by ESPN, 96th by 247Sports Rated No. 41 prospect in Louisiana by Rivals, No. 44 on New Orleans Times-Picayune Nifty 50, No. 57 by 247Sports and No. 59 by ESPN Played in 2014 Louisiana High School All-Star game following senior season Earned 2014 Class 4A All-State honorable mention as senior Also named 2014 first team All-District 1-4A as DB and second team as receiver Team captain as senior, totaled 53 tackles, five interceptions, 19 PBUs and forced fumble, named to 2014 Shreveport Times All-City first team Earned 2013 Class 4A All-State honorable mention as junior, also named 2013 first team All-District 1-4A defensive back Sophomore stats in 2012: 37 tackles, eight PBUs, interception and two forced fumbles.
BRILES ON BLACK
"Henry is a solid football player with great size for playing corner. We're starting to get some bigger guys at that position, and Henry fits exactly what we're looking for. He's a big, athletic corner that we're very excited to have join our program. He's going to end up being a great player."
RILEY DANIEL
OL - 6-5, 310 - Ringling, Okla. (Ringling HS)
Big all-state offensive lineman from Ringling (Okla.) High School Played under coaches Tracy and Richie Gandy at RHS Rated state's No. 9 prospect by The Oklahoman's Super 30, 10th by Rivals, 12th by ESPN, 12th by Scout and 17th by 247Sports National position ranking among OT prospects: 85th by ESPN, 98th by 247Sports and 104th by Scout (No. 1 OT recruit in Oklahoma) Named to 2014 Small School All-American second team by MaxPreps as senior Earned first-team all-state honors by The Oklahoman, also named all-state by Tulsa World and Oklahoma Coaches Association for Ringling squad that finished 10-2 Helped RHS to perfect 7-0 A District 3 record and 12-2 overall in 2013 Played tight end as sophomore on 2012 Ringling team that won Oklahoma Class A state championship.
BRILES ON DANIEL
"We're really excited about Riley's growth pattern, and that he comes from a real small school up in Oklahoma; I think his potential is really up there because he's a guy that's had to play both ways, and when he concentrates just just playing offensive line I think he'll blossom into a really dynamic player."
DREW GALITZ
P/K - 5-10, 180 - Rowlett, Texas (Rowlett HS)
All-American punter/kicker from Rowlett (Texas) High School Named Under Armour All-American, played in 2015 all-star game in Florida Played for head coach Doug Stephens at RHS Rated nation's No. 3 kicker by ESPN and No. 9 by 247Sports Named state's top kicker/punter recruit by Dave Campbell's Texas Football 2015 winter publication Ranked 125th prospect in state by ESPN, regardless of position Rated No. 80, the top kicker, on SportsDay/DMN Area Top 100 listing Gained notoriety as prep kicker when video clip of successful 71-yard field goal at Kohl's Kicking Camp practice in Oct. 2014 went viral on YouTube Earned 2014 Class 6A All-State honorable mention at punter following senior season, helped Rowlett to 8-4 record and 6A DI area finals Averaged 38.4 yards on 23 punts Perfect on 22 PATs, hit 4-of-7 FGs (long 47) Named to 2014 Dave Campbell Texas Football All-Texas second team and first-team punter on 2014 All-District 11-6A squad Averaged 38 yards punting as junior in 2013, totaled 11 touchbacks on kickoffs Named second-team punter on 2013 All-District 11-5A squad Also played soccer at RHS, named All-District 11-5A second-team midfielder.
BRILES ON GALITZ
"Drew fills a need 100 percent, having lost Spencer (Roth). Drew can punt, kickoff and kick field goals. We signed him primarily as a punter right now to come in and be the guy. He's going to have to get on the fast track. We feel like he's the best in America. We're really glad that he's here."
JaMYCAL HASTY
RB - 5-8, 185 - Longview, Texas (Longview HS)
National top 300 recruit and All-American running back from Longview (Texas) High School Shifty and quick athlete played under head coach John King at LHS Ranked No. 204 national recruit by 247Sports, No. 213 by Rivals and No. 262 by ESPN Named Semper Fidelis All-American, played in 2015 all-star bowl game in Carson, Calif Rated sixth-best all-purpose back nationally by 247Sports Ranked 21st among running back prospects by ESPN and 40th by Scout Rated 28th overall prospect in Texas by 247Sports, 29th by Rivals and 37th by ESPN Ranked state's No. 24 overall prospect on Austin American-Statesman Fabulous 55, also among top 30 on Waco Tribune-Herald Top 100, 47th by Scout and 47th on Dave Campbell Texas Football Top 150 (rated seventh-best RB prospect in state in 2015 winter publication) Rushed for 158 yards on 20 attempts and totaled 80 yards and one TD on five receptions during 2014 injury-shortened senior season for 9-3 LHS squad that reached 5A DI area finals Earned 2013 Class 3A All-State honorable mention as junior after rushing for 1,420 yards and 13 TDs Also had 12 catches for 255 yards and three TDs while leading Longview to 11-2 record and 5A DII regional semifinals Named 2013 first team All-District 12-5A Ran for 340 yards and five touchdowns as sophomore in 2012 for 9-4 LHS team that reached regional semis Also played basketball and ran track at Longview.
BRILES ON HASTY
"JaMycal is a guy that we've had a great relationship with for a long time. He's a dynamic player, just a great running back, and he can return kicks if needed. He's a football junkie, a guy that really loves the sport, and really wants to be great at it."
JAMESON HOUSTON
DB - 6-1, 190 - Austin, Texas (St. Michael's Academy)
Two-time all-state two-way athlete from St. Michael's Academy in Austin, Texas Do-it-all play-maker, excelled as defensive back, receiver, running back and returner for head coach Darrell Pantalone at St. Michael's Rated nation's No. 63 athlete prospect by ESPN, and No. 76 among safety recruits by Scout Ranked 85th in state of Texas by Scout and 90th by ESPN Listed on Texas Top 150 by Dave Campbell Texas Football 2014 TAPPS DI All-State on both sides of ball (defensive back and athlete) as senior Had 33 tackles, four interceptions, two PBUs, forced fumble and 90-yard TD on interception return as starting safety Totaled 538 yards and six TDs on 24 receptions and 341 yards and four TDs on 34 rushes, scored two kick-return TDs (90 and 95 yards) Also 2014 first-team All-District 2-DI as both DB and utility back Named 2014 second team All-Central Texas as utility back by Austin American-Statesman Led St. Michael's to 8-3 record and 2013 DI regional semifinals as two-way starter Earned 2013 first team TAPPS DI All-State honors as both athlete and DB as junior Made 60 tackles (45 solo) and three interception returns for TDs as cornerback Offensively, had 530 yards and six TDs on 26 receptions and 420 yards and two TDs on 55 carries Also had kickoff return for TD and punt return for TD Earned 2012 second-team All-District 2-DI honors as sophomore wide receiver after helping St. Michael's to 12-1 record and DI semifinals Totaled 404 yards and four TDs on 23 catches and 47 yards on five rushes as sophomore Added one kick return TD Earned 2011 All-District 2-DI honorable mention as freshman running back Also played basketball (2013 honorable mention Class 5A TAPPS All-State) and track and field (won 2014 TAPPS 5A 200 meters with time of 21.51) at St. Michael's.
BRILES ON HOUSTON
"Jameson is a kid that's got everything in front of him. He's got a big frame and will play DB for us. He's got a great future in front of him. He's a fast kid, he'll run a low 21 maybe a 20 in the 200 (meters) this spring. He's a player where the surface is just starting to be scratched."
TYRONE HUNT
DL - 6-3, 235 - Arp, Texas (Arp HS)
All-state defensive lineman from Arp (Texas) High School Multi-sport athlete at AHS played football under head coach Dale Irwin... Rated No. 111 strongside defensive end prospect nationally by 247Sports Earned 2014 Class 3A All-State honorable mention on DL as senior Named 2014 District 8-3A Co-Defensive MVP for 2014 Arp squad that finished 9-2 and reached 3A DII area finals Totaled 60 tackles, 14 TFL, seven sacks, seven QB pressures, five forced fumbles and two PBUs as senior Named 2013 first team All-District 10-2A DII as junior Made 70 tackles, eight for loss, five sacks and three QB pressures for Arp's 2013 team that finished 7-5 and advanced to 2A DII area finals Totaled 50 tackles and 23 pancakes as sophomore in 2012 for AHS squad that finished 9-3 and made regional semifinals Also lettered in basketball and track and field at Arp Named second team 2014 All-District 18-2A in hoops as junior Threw shot put and discus, finished sixth in discus with mark of 151-2 at 2014 Texas state meet.
BRILES ON HUNT
"Tyrone is a big kid from a small school who has had to play both ways and multiple positions. We're really excited about getting him on campus. He's a big, strong, rangy player that throws the shot and discus. When he starts specializing he'll get the opportunity to really start shining. We want a guy with a great upside, and we feel like Tyrone has that."
CLAY JOHNSTON
LB - 6-2, 200 - Abilene, Texas (Wylie HS)
Two-time all-state linebacker from Wylie High School in Abilene, Texas Two-way player under head coach Hugh Sandifer at WHS Rated nation's 69th outside linebacker prospect by ESPN and 73rd by Scout Listed state's No. 10 LB recruit by Dave Campbell's Texas Football 2015 winter publication Listed among Texas Top 150 by Dave Campbell's Texas Football and No. 137 in-state prospect by ESPN Two-way all-state honoree as senior, named 2014 second team Class 4A All-State on defense and honorable mention running back Earned 2014 second-team All-Texas honors from Dave Campbell's Texas Football, named All-Big Country Super Team Player of Year by Abilene Reporter-News and District 3-4A MVP Led Wylie to 10-3 record, 2014 4A DI regional semifinals and No. 5 final ranking as senior Totaled 85 tackles (17 for loss), six sacks, 12 QB hurries, six PBUs and three forced fumbles Offensively, took over as starting tailback in week six after injury to teammate, ran for more than 1,050 yards and 19 TDs, also 200-plus yards on 10 receptions Also blocked three kicks and had 28-yard kickoff return on special teams as senior Named 2013 first team Class 3A All-State at linebacker as junior Selected 2013 All-Big Country Super Team Defensive MVP by Abilene Reporter-News after leading WHS to 8-4 record and to 3A DI area finals Made 138 tackles, 34 TFL, six sacks and five PBUs as junior Father, Kent, is strength and conditioning coach for the San Diego Chargers.
BRILES ON JOHNSTON
"Clay is an all-purpose guy from Abilene-Wylie. Played running back and linebacker. His dad is the head strength coach for the Chargers. He's a guy that's been around football all of his life. We feel like he's going to be a great addition for us on the defensive side of the ball at linebacker. He's a smart player who knows how to win and play tough."
LENOY JONES JR.
LB - 5-10, 215 - Waco, Texas (Midway HS)
All-state linebacker from nearby Midway High School in Hewitt, Texas Played under head coach Terry Gambill at MHS National position ranking among linebacker prospects: 59th by ESPN, 78th by 247Sports and 88th by Scout Named 2014 District 12-6A Defensive MVP and unanimous first team after leading Midway to 12-1 record and to 6A DII regional semifinals as senior Totaled 154 tackles, 10 for loss, nine QB hurries, three forced fumbles, two fumbles recovered, two PBUs and one sack, earned first-team 2014 Super Centex honors from Waco Tribune-Herald Earned 2013 Class 5A All-State honorable mention as junior, helped MHS to 9-3 record and to 5A DII area finals Totaled 162 tackles (10 for loss), three sacks and four PBUs, named to 2013 All-District 8-5A second team Made 61 tackles as sophomore on varsity for 2012 Midway team that finished 13-1 and in 5A DII state quarterfinals Teammate at MHS of fellow Baylor signee Devontre Stricklin and current Bear Jamie Jacobs Father Lenoy Jones Sr., D-line coach at Midway, played seven seasons as NFL linebacker for Oilers/Titans and Browns and collegiately at TCU.
BRILES ON JONES
"Lenoy is a local, from right here at Waco-Midway. His dad had a pretty storied career collegiately and in the NFL. He comes from a great family, and he's another great addition from Midway to Baylor. He's a great leader, a guy who plays very dynamically. He's got a great upside, and we love his passion and his motor. We're really happy that he's going to be a part of our family."
J.W. KETCHUM III
DB - 6-0, 190 - Houston, Texas (Lamar HS)
Multi-talented play-maker, played senior season at Lamar High School in Houston Amassed 5,705 yards and 99 TDs in final three prep seasons as versatile quarterback Rated No. 29 dual-threat quarterback prospect nationally by 247Sports Ranked 31st-top athlete prospect by ESPN and 41st safety recruit by Scout Top 50 Texas recruit, ranked 31st in state on Dave Campbell Texas Football Texas Top 150 (No. 4 "athlete" recruit per 2015 winter publication), 41st on Austin American-Statesman's Fabulous 55, 43rd by Rivals, 47th by ESPN, among top 50 on Waco Tribune-Herald's Top 100 and on Houston Chronicle Top 100 No. 58 prospect in region per ESPN Led head coach Tom Nolen's 2014 Lamar squad to 10-2 record and to 6A DI area finals Named 2014 District 20-6A MVP and to 2014 All-VYPE team Totaled 2,021 yards (589 on 32-of-87 passing, 1,432 on 117 rushes - 12.2 yards/carry) and 25 TDs (seven passing, 18 rushing) as senior at LHS Played junior and sophomore seasons at Marshall High School in Missouri City, Texas, under head coach James Williams Earned 2013 All-District 22-4A first-team honors as junior QB after leading MHS squad to 8-3 record and to 4A DII area finals Threw for 603 yards and 10 TDs on 50-of-115 passes and totaled 1,172 yards and 14 TDs on 88 carries as junior at Marshall Named 2012 District 22-4A Offensive MVP after leading MHS to 13-1 record and to DII regional finals as sophomore Totaled 40 TDs and 1,909 yards, threw for 744 yards and 12 scores on 59-of-85 passes and ran for 1,165 and 28 TDs on 118 attempts.
BRILES ON KETCHUM
"Talk to anybody from the city of Houston, and they'll tell you the most dynamic player this year was J.W. That's saying a lot coming out of that city. He's a guy that can do it all. He played high school QB. We're going to look at him as a return guy and safety. He's a player that can come in and have a chance to fight for playing time pretty quickly."
TONY NICHOLSON
DB - 5-9, 170 - Grand Prairie, Texas (South Grand Prairie HS)
Talented multi-position athlete from South Grand Prairie (Texas) High School Played quarterback, receiver and defensive back under head coach Brent Whitson at South Grand Prairie Ranked nation's 51st-best WR prospect by 247Sports and 88th by Scout Listed No. 59 among "athlete" prospects by ESPN Top 100 Texas recruit: ranked 65th on Dave Campbell's Texas Football Texas Top 150 (No. 8 "athlete" recruit per 2015 winter publication), 79th by 247Sports, 87th by ESPN, 97th by Scout and on Waco Tribune-Herald Top 100 Rated No. 108 among regional prospects by ESPN and 52nd top recruit (No. 3 among "athletes") on the SportsDay/DMN Area Top 100 Two-way standout as senior, totaled 447 yards and three TDs on 38 receptions, 273 yards and three scores on 44 carries, and threw for 43 yards and two TDs on 2-for-2 passing Defensively, added 10 solo tackles, five interceptions and pass breakup Named 2014 unanimous All-District 8-6A first team inside receiver Played quarterback as junior, passed for 628 yards and eight TDs, rushed for 622 yards and nine scores Named 2013 All-District 7-5A second-team QB.
BRILES ON NICHOLSON
"Tony has great upside coming in. He's a high school QB, receiver and played some DB. We're looking at Tony as a DB. He's a dynamic player that's used to making plays to help his football team win. So we're excited about getting a person that's been in that position on the defensive side of the ball. We feel like he can come in here and have a chance to compete and get on the field with a great upside. He's a great kid."
ERIC OGOR
LB - 6-0, 215 - Richmond, Texas (Foster HS)
Two-time all-state linebacker from Foster High School in Richmond, Texas Played under head coach Shaun McDowell at FHS Rated 48th-best OLB prospect by 247Sports and 125th by ESPN Ranked No. 94 recruit in region by 247Sports Named to 2014 Class 5A All-State second team and All-Greater Houston (Houston Chronicle) first team after leading Foster to 9-2 record and 5A DI bi-district finals Also earned 2014 District 24-5A Defensive Co-MVP and first-team linebacker as senior Totaled 134 tackles, 34 TFL, 15 sacks, nine forced fumbles, four PBUs and fumble recovered Earned 2013 Class 5A All-State second-team honors Helped FHS to 7-3 record and bi-district finals Made 120 tackles, 18 TFL and eight sacks as junior.
BRILES ON OGOR
"Eric is a dynamic linebacker from Richmond. He's a tough kid, he's explosive and has a fast motor and a good frame. He's a player that we think has a tremendous upside."
MAURICE PORTER
OL - 6-7, 315 - Missouri City, Texas (Marshall HS / Navarro College)
Dominant lineman and No. 1-rated junior college prospect in Texas per 247Sports from Navarro College Former national top-200 prospect out of high school, signed with Baylor in 2013 recruiting class Offensive lineman played two seasons under head coach Brian Mayper at Navarro National ratings among junior college prospects: 15th by 247Sports, 27th on ESPN JC50 (third among offensive tackles), 57th on Rivals JC100, 62nd by Scout Earned 83 percent coaches grade as sophomore, along with eight knockdowns and two pancakes on 2014 Navarro squad that finished 7-3 Started playing football as sophomore in high school, played three seasons under head coach James Williams at Marshall High School in Missouri City, Texas 198th overall national prospect in 2012 class out of high school on 247Sports's Top247 listing National position rankings: No. 17 (OT) by 247Sports, No. 24 (OG) by Scout, No. 35 (OT) by Rivals, No. 55 (OT) by ESPN State rankings among Texas recruits: No. 26 by 247Sports, No. 26 on Austin American-Statesman's Fabulous 55, No. 50 by SuperPrep, No. 55 by Rivals.com, Waco Tribune-Herald Texas Top 100 Fourth-best offensive line prospect in state according to Dave Campbell's Texas Football No. 7 offensive lineman recruit on Dallas Morning News/SportsDay's State Top 100 listing Listed on VYPE/Rivals publication's Houston Top 100 Participated in 2012 Offense-Defense All-American Bowl in Houston following senior season Led Marshall to 13-1 record and 2012 4A DII quarterfinals as senior Named first team 2011 All-District 23-5A honoree as junior in second season playing sport Also named 2011 second-team All-Sun by Sugar Land Sun.
BRILES ON PORTER
"Maurice is coming from Navarro, we recruited him out of high school. He's rated the No. 1. J.C. tackle in America. The journey is getting closer to an end, and once he steps on campus he's a player that will have an opportunity to contribute immediately. He has a great frame."
DEVONTRE STRICKLIN
WR - 6-1, 180 - Waco, Texas (Midway HS)
National top 300 prospect, wide receiver from nearby Midway High School in Hewitt, Texas Elite athlete played under head coach Terry Gambill at Midway Ranked No. 230 national recruit by 247Sports and No. 257 on ESPN300 listing Member of USA Football national team (under 19) to play in 2015 International Bowl in Arlington, Texas National position ranking among wide receiver prospects: 25th by 247Sports, 31st by ESPN, 63rd by Scout In-state rankings: No. 30 by 247Sports, No. 34 by ESPN, No. 53 on Austin American-Statesman's Fabulous 55, No. 59 by Rivals, No. 63 by Scout, No. 77 on LoneStar Top 100, No. 78 on Dave Campbell's Texas Football Top 150 and on Waco Tribune-Herald Top 100 Rated 43rd prospect in region by ESPN Named 2014 first team All-Texas (Dave Campbell's Texas Football), first team Super Centex (Waco Tribune-Herald) and unanimous first team All-District 12-6A Totaled 1,309 yards and 12 TDs on 67 receptions as senior, led Midway to 12-1 record and 6A DII regional semifinals Had 45 catches for 1,023 yards and 14 TDs as junior, for MHS squad that finished 9-3 and made 5A DII area finals Teammate at MHS of fellow Baylor signee Lenoy Jones Jr. and current Bear Jamie Jacobs Jumper on MHS track and field squad, recorded marks of 47-7 (triple jump), 22-3 ¾ (long jump) and 6-0 (high jump).
BRILES ON STRICKLIN
"Another local addition from Waco-Midway. He had a great career there. We feel he's got great upside, he's a track jumper with outstanding hands, and a competitor going after the ball. He's a dynamic player with a dynamic personality to back it up. Just a great kid. We're extremely excited about our two Midway players that have chosen to stay here."
SAM TECKLENBURG
ATH - 6-3, 280 - Plano, Texas (Plano HS)
Two-time all-state performer from Plano (Texas) High School Two-way athlete played tight end, offensive line and defensive tackle in four varsity seasons at Plano under head coach Jaydon McCullough Participated in 2014 NUC Senior All-American Game in South Carolina following senior season Rated nation's No. 58 prospect among offensive guards (sixth in Texas) by Scout Ranked 76th among DT prospects by ESPN and 105th among tight ends by 247Sports Listed on Dave Campbell's Texas Football Texas Top 150 Rated No. 46 on SportsDay/DMN Area Top 100 (11th offensive lineman) Earned 2014 Class 6A All-State honorable mention at DL and named 2014 District 6-6A Co-Defensive MVP as senior Totaled 47 tackles, six TFL, six QB hurries and two sacks for 7-4 Plano squad Also made seven receptions for 118 yards and one TD at tight end Named 2013 second team Class 5A All-State on DL as junior First team All-District 10-5A on both sides of ball (DL and TE) Had six tackles for loss and 2.5 sacks for 2013 Plano squad that finished 7-4 Earned 2012 first team All-District 10-5A distinction as both DT (unanimous) and TE as sophomore Father Kerry played collegiately at North Texas and Texas Tech.
BRILES ON TECKLENBURG
"We think Sam can play center, guard, D-tackle, D-end or H-back. He can do it all. So, we're just really excited about his journey. He's very strong and very athletic. He played both sides of the ball in high school. He played tight end and defensive end. He's a player that has an opportunity to have a great career here at Baylor."
JORDAN TOLBERT
DB - 5-10, 160 - Missouri City, Texas (Ridge Point HS)
Defensive back standout from Ridge Point High School in Missouri City, Texas Two-time all-district honoree for head coach Brett Sniffin at RPHS Rated nation's 40th best cornerback prospect by 247Sports, 41st by ESPN and 96th by Scout Top 100 Texas recruit: ranked 60th prospect in state by 247Sports, 88th on Dave Campbell's Texas Football Texas Top 150 (No. 8 CB recruit in state per 2015 winter publication), 89th on LoneStar Top 100, 95th by ESPN and on Waco Tribune-Herald's Top 100 Listed on Houston Chronicle's Houston Top 100 Missed senior season in 2014 due to knee injury Named second team 2013 All-District 22-4A as junior Made 16 tackles, two interceptions, two PBUs and totaled 321 return yards for Ridge Point squad that finished 9-3 and in 4A DII area finals Earned 2012 second team All-District 22-4A honors and made three interceptions as sophomore.
BRILES ON TOLBERT
"Jordan is explosive, and very fast. He tore his ACL last spring and missed his whole senior season, but he's healthy now and he's ready to go. He's a great kid, a dynamic player with great ball skills. We're really excited to get him on campus, get him around our guys and turn him loose and let him play. "
JORDAN WILLIAMS
LB - 6-0, 210 - Paris, Texas (Paris HS)
Two-time all-state linebacker from Paris (Texas) High School Played under head coach Steven Hohenberger at PHS Ranked No. 116 national linebacker prospect by 247Sports Earned 2014 Class 4A All-State honorable mention as senior Led Paris to 8-5 record and 4A DI regional semifinals Named District 7-4A Defensive MVP and to all-district first team Totaled 160 tackles, 26 TFL, six sacks and four forced fumbles as senior Earned 2013 Class 3A All-State honorable mention as junior Named 2013 District 13-3A Special Teams MVP and first team all-district Earned All-Red River Valley first-team honors after totaling 143 tackles, six sacks, two fumble recoveries and forced fumble as junior Named 2012 Red River Valley Newcomer of Year as sophomore Helped Paris to 8-4 record and DI regional semifinals, made 88 tackles, 21 TFL, six sacks, three forced fumbles and fumble recovery Also lettered in baseball at PHS.
BRILES ON WILLIAMS
"Jordan is a tough player, he's explosive and plays with high energy and a high motor. He's very athletic, and in our league you've got to have guys that can run and make plays defensively; and Jordan certainly fits that mold."
SPRING ENROLLEES:
DOMINIC DeSOUZA
OL - 6-7, 300 - Pacifica, Calif. (Terra Nova HS / City College of San Francisco)
Junior college transfer offensive lineman from City College of San Francisco has two years of eligibility Rated 35th-best prospect on Rivals' Juco 100 and No. 92 on Scout's Juco Top 100 Two-year starter at CCSF under head coach Jimmy Collins, helped Rams to consecutive wins in the San Francisco Community College Bowl in 2013 and 2014 Led San Francisco to 11-2 record and state runner-up finish in 2014 as sophomore Starter for Rams squad that finished 8-3 and beat Sierra 59-31 in SFCC Bowl as freshman in 2013 Prepped at Terra Nova High School in Pacifica, Calif., under head coach Bill Gray Earned 2012 first-team All-PAL Bay Division and second-team All-Mercury News honors following senior season at TNHS Anchored O-line for offense that averaged 419 yards per game in 2012.
BRILES ON DeSOUZA
"Dominic is huge, and athletic. Anytime we take a J.C. guy we take them as a potential starter, so he's a guy we feel like will be a potential starter for us. I don't know if it'll be this fall, but he's certainly a big body that's athletic."
DEVONTE JONES
C - 6-2, 305 - Houston, Texas (Bellaire HS)
Member of Baylor's 2014 signing class, enrolled at Baylor in January 2015, will participate in spring drills Two-time all-district offensive lineman at Bellaire High School in Houston Three-year starter under head coach Trey Sissom at BHS Rated nation's 74th-best guard prospect in 2014 signing class by 247Sports, ranked 81st by both ESPN and Scout Included on Houston Top 100 listing (one of 16 offensive linemen) by VYPE/Rivals Named first-team 2013 All-District 20-5A as senior after leading Bellaire to 8-3 record and DI bi-district finals Earned 86 percent coach's grade and totaled 34 pancake blocks and 123 de-cleat blocks as senior Earned 2012 second-team All-District 20-5A honors as junior guard Starting guard on BHS 2011 squad that finished 7-4 and reached DI bi-district finals.
BRILES ON D. JONES
"Devonte is a high school kid that we greyshirted. He has good size and we're looking at him as a future center down the road. He's somebody that can come in, redshirt, then be able to compete for playing time in a few years. Very athletic, good frame, good body."
BLAKE LYNCH
WR - 6-2, 195 - Gilmer, Texas (Gilmer HS)
National top 200 recruit from Gilmer (Texas) High School Versatile, All-American athlete rated nation's 86th-best recruit on 247Sports's Top247 Named 2015 U.S. Army All-American, chose not to play in 2015 U.S. Army All-American Bowl in San Antonio Ranked No. 185 overall prospect by ESPN National position rating: eighth by 247Sports (athlete), 21st by Rivals (WR), 25th by Scout (S) and 30th by EPSN (athlete) Runner-up for 2014 "Mr. Texas Football" by Dave Campbell's Texas Football Rankings among prospects in Texas: 15th by 247Sports, 15th on Dave Campbell Texas Football's Texas Top 150, 23rd on Austin American-Statesman's Fabulous 55, 27th by Rivals, 42nd on LoneStar Top 100, 46th by ESPN and 48th by Scout Named No. 2 "athlete" recruit in state by Dave Campbell's Texas Football 2015 winter publication Named MVP among QBs at 2013 APEC/ETSN combine State champion at Gilmer, led head coach's Jeff Traylor squad to perfect 16-0 season as senior in 2014 Named offensive MVP of 4A DII state championship game, totaled 117 yards on seven touches and scored twice in fourth quarter come-from-behind 35-25 win over West-Orange Stark Earned 2014 second-team Class 4A All-State honors as wide receiver after amassing 2,220 combined yards and 38 offensive TDs while playing running back, receiver, quarterback, safety and cornerback at GHS Totaled 1,043 yards and 16 TDs on 47 receptions, 888 yards and 19 TDs on 72 rushes (16.2 average yards-per-rush/reception), and 289 yards and three TDs on 13-of-17 passing Defensively, totaled 40 tackles, three interceptions, one fumble recovery and two defensive TDs Named 2014 first team All-Texas utility back and 4A DII Region I & II Player of Year (Dave Campbell's Texas Football) 2014 District 5-4A DII Co-MVP and first-team All-East Texas (ETSN) Transferred to Gilmer from Troup (Texas) High School, played quarterback as sophomore and junior under head coach Dennis Alexander at THS Totaled 750 yards and 11 TDs passing and 650 yards and 13 TDs rushing during injury-shortened junior season in 2013 (broken arm) Led Troup to 9-2 record and 2012 bi-district finals as sophomore Totaled more than 1,500 yards of total offense and earned 2012 District 9-2A Offensive Newcomer of the Year honors as sophomore Jumped and ran sprints for GHS track and field squad, member of 4x200 relay team that finished fifth at 2014 state meet Also played basketball, was 2013 District 18-2A Newcomer of Year as sophomore at Troup.
BRILES ON LYNCH
"Blake is just a big guy, a fast guy, a stud and a winner. He's very mature with himself on and off the football field. He's really mature for being a mid-year guy, senior in high school. He's a great addition, a guy that's really going to be an impact player."
JARRETT STIDHAM
QB - 6-3, 195 - Stephenville, Texas (Stephenville HS)
Blue chip recruit and top 50 national prospect from Stephenville (Texas) High School All-American dual-threat quarterback rated nation's No. 13 overall recruit on 247Sports Top247 list Three-time all-state honoree (as QB and receiver) under head coach Joseph Gillespie and multi-sport athlete at SHS Named Under Armour All-American and played in 2015 prep all-star game in Florida Ranked 33rd overall national prospect by Scout and 37th on ESPN300 listing National position ranking among QB prospects: Top-rated dual-threat prospect by 247Sports, second by ESPN and sixth by Rivals; rated third among traditional QBs by Scout Listed No. 2 overall recruit in state of Texas by 247Sports Other Texas Top 100 listings: No. 6 by Scout, No. 6 on Dave Campbell's Texas Football Texas Top 150, No. 7 by ESPN, No. 9 by Rivals, No. 9 on LoneStar Top 100, No. 11 on Austin American-Statesman's Fabulous 55 and Waco Tribune-Herald (Top 30) Named 2014 second team All-Texas by Dave Campbell's Texas Football 2015 winter publication Standout at 2014 Elite 11 competition in Oregon summer prior to senior season Led Stephenville to 9-4 record, to 2014 4A DI regional finals and No. 6 final ranking as senior Earned 2014 Class 4A All-State second-team honors despite missing most of two games due to hand injury (earned 2014 "The Davey: Iron Man Award" for comeback from injury to throwing hand by Dave Campbell's Texas Football) Compiled 3,903 total yards and 50 TDs; threw for 2,934 yards and 35 TDs on 183-of-260 passes, ran for 969 yards and 15 TDs on 122 carries Named 2014 first team All-District 3-4A and second team 2014 All-Texas (Dave Campbell's Texas Football) Selected 2013 third team Class 3A All-State as junior, led SHS to 12-2 record and 3A DI state semifinals Threw for 2,613 yards and 30 TDs on 156-of-254 passes and rushed for 821 yards and 14 TDs on 138 carries Earned 2013 District 7-3A MVP as junior Played receiver as sophomore, totaled 685 yards and 11 TD receptions on Stephenville's 2012 Class 3A DI state championship squad Earned 2012 Class 3A All-State honorable mention as receiver All-District honoree in basketball, also ran track at Stephenville.
BRILES ON STIDHAM
"Jarrett is very mature, a mid-year impact player. We're excited to watch his growth throughout the next few years; he has a bright future."
Twenty student-athletes sign National Letters of Intent to play for back-to-back Big 12 Champions.
WACO, Texas - Baylor head coach Art Briles announced Wednesday the signing of 20 student-athletes to National Letters of Intent to play football for the defending back-to-back Big 12 champions. The 2015 signing class is comprised of 18 high school standouts and two junior college transfers.
"We've reached the point now with our program, fortunately, where recruiting is all about filling the needs that we have, instead of just trying to get the best available," Briles said. "So from that standpoint we certainly feel, as we continue increasing our depth level and talent level, that we're filling the needs of our football team with quality athletes and quality players that fit what we're looking for."
The class includes five prep All-Americans, a 2015 USA Football national team member, as well as an additional former top-200 national recruit.
The quintet of All-Americans is made up of U.S. Army All-American wide receiver Blake Lynch of Gilmer (Texas) High School, Under Armour All-Americans Jarrett Stidham, a quarterback from Stephenville (Texas) High School and punter/kicker Drew Galitz of Rowlett (Texas) High School, Semper Fidelis All-American running back JaMycal Hasty of Longview (Texas) High School, and MaxPreps Small School All-American offensive lineman Riley Daniel of Ringling (Okla.) High School.
Receiver Devontre Stricklin of nearby Midway High School in Hewitt, Texas, is a member of the 2015 USA Football squad, and offensive lineman Maurice Porter of Navarro College is a national top-200 prospect from the 2013 recruiting class.
Briles singled out the five defensive backs and four linebackers signed as targeted position groups, as well as four offensive linemen.
"The back end and linebacker, defensively, and the o-line from the offensive standpoint, are areas where we concentrated," Briles said. "Quite honestly, it's pretty well spilt between offense and defense with special teams in there. We were a little low number-wise on how many we could sign this year, but we certainly believe everything's going to work out."
This year's class also includes two players from previous Baylor signing classes, Devonte Jones, an offensive lineman from Houston's Bellaire High School from the 2014 class, and Porter from 2013.
Baylor's 2015 class is once again made up predominantly of Texas recruits (17 of 20 from in-state schools) and includes four student-athletes currently enrolled in Baylor's spring semester who will participate in 2015 spring drills (scheduled to begin Feb. 23): mid-year junior college signee Dominic DeSouza (OL from City College of San Francisco) and three early high school enrollees, Devonte Jones, Lynch and Stidham.
BAYLOR FOOTBALL 2015 SIGNEES
Name Pos Ht Wt Class Hometown (previous schools)
Henry Black DB 5-11 180 Fr. Shreveport, La. (Woodlawn HS)
Riley Daniel OL 6-5 310 Fr. Ringling, Okla. (Ringling HS)
Drew Galitz P/K 5-10 180 Fr. Rowlett, Texas (Rowlett HS)
JaMycal Hasty RB 5-8 185 Fr. Longview, Texas (Longview HS)
Jameson Houston DB 6-1 190 Fr. Austin, Texas (St. Michael's Academy)
Tyrone Hunt DL 6-3 235 Fr. Arp, Texas (Arp HS)
Clay Johnston LB 6-2 200 Fr. Abilene, Texas (Wylie HS)
Lenoy Jones Jr. LB 5-10 215 Fr. Waco, Texas (Midway HS)
J.W. Ketchum DB 6-0 190 Fr. Houston, Texas (Lamar HS)
Tony Nicholson DB 5-9 170 Fr. Grand Prairie, Texas (South Grand Prairie HS)
Eric Ogor LB 6-0 215 Fr. Richmond, Texas (Foster HS)
Maurice Porter OL 6-7 315 Jr. Missouri City, Texas (Marshall HS / Navarro College)
Devontre Stricklin WR 6-1 180 Fr. Waco, Texas (Midway HS)
Sam Tecklenburg ATH 6-3 280 Fr. Plano, Texas (Plano HS)
Jordan Tolbert DB 5-10 160 Fr. Missouri City, Texas (Ridge Point HS)
Jordan Williams LB 6-0 210 Fr. Paris, Texas (Paris HS)
SPRING ENROLLEES
Dominic DeSouza OL 6-7 300 Jr. Pacifica, Calif. (Terra Nova HS / City College of San Francisco)
Devonte Jones C 6-2 305 Fr. Houston, Texas (Bellaire HS)
Blake Lynch WR 6-2 195 Fr. Gilmer, Texas (Gilmer HS)
Jarrett Stidham QB 6-3 195 Fr. Stephenville, Texas (Stephenville HS)
2015 BAYLOR FOOTBALL SIGNING CLASS BREAKDOWN:
By State:
Texas (17)
California (1)
Louisiana (1)
Oklahoma (1)
By Position:
Offense (8 - 4 linemen, 2 receivers, 1 running back, 1 quarterback)
Defense (10 - 1 lineman, 4 linebackers, 5 backs)
Athlete (1)
Specialist (1)
By Class:
Freshmen (18)
Sophomores (0)
Juniors (2)
HENRY BLACK
DB - 5-11, 180 - Shreveport, La. (Woodlawn HS)
Two-time all-state two-way athlete from Woodlawn High School in Shreveport, La Played cornerback and receiver under head coach Jerwin Wilson at Woodlawn National position ranking among cornerback prospects: 65th by Rivals, 88th by ESPN, 96th by 247Sports Rated No. 41 prospect in Louisiana by Rivals, No. 44 on New Orleans Times-Picayune Nifty 50, No. 57 by 247Sports and No. 59 by ESPN Played in 2014 Louisiana High School All-Star game following senior season Earned 2014 Class 4A All-State honorable mention as senior Also named 2014 first team All-District 1-4A as DB and second team as receiver Team captain as senior, totaled 53 tackles, five interceptions, 19 PBUs and forced fumble, named to 2014 Shreveport Times All-City first team Earned 2013 Class 4A All-State honorable mention as junior, also named 2013 first team All-District 1-4A defensive back Sophomore stats in 2012: 37 tackles, eight PBUs, interception and two forced fumbles.
BRILES ON BLACK
"Henry is a solid football player with great size for playing corner. We're starting to get some bigger guys at that position, and Henry fits exactly what we're looking for. He's a big, athletic corner that we're very excited to have join our program. He's going to end up being a great player."
RILEY DANIEL
OL - 6-5, 310 - Ringling, Okla. (Ringling HS)
Big all-state offensive lineman from Ringling (Okla.) High School Played under coaches Tracy and Richie Gandy at RHS Rated state's No. 9 prospect by The Oklahoman's Super 30, 10th by Rivals, 12th by ESPN, 12th by Scout and 17th by 247Sports National position ranking among OT prospects: 85th by ESPN, 98th by 247Sports and 104th by Scout (No. 1 OT recruit in Oklahoma) Named to 2014 Small School All-American second team by MaxPreps as senior Earned first-team all-state honors by The Oklahoman, also named all-state by Tulsa World and Oklahoma Coaches Association for Ringling squad that finished 10-2 Helped RHS to perfect 7-0 A District 3 record and 12-2 overall in 2013 Played tight end as sophomore on 2012 Ringling team that won Oklahoma Class A state championship.
BRILES ON DANIEL
"We're really excited about Riley's growth pattern, and that he comes from a real small school up in Oklahoma; I think his potential is really up there because he's a guy that's had to play both ways, and when he concentrates just just playing offensive line I think he'll blossom into a really dynamic player."
DREW GALITZ
P/K - 5-10, 180 - Rowlett, Texas (Rowlett HS)
All-American punter/kicker from Rowlett (Texas) High School Named Under Armour All-American, played in 2015 all-star game in Florida Played for head coach Doug Stephens at RHS Rated nation's No. 3 kicker by ESPN and No. 9 by 247Sports Named state's top kicker/punter recruit by Dave Campbell's Texas Football 2015 winter publication Ranked 125th prospect in state by ESPN, regardless of position Rated No. 80, the top kicker, on SportsDay/DMN Area Top 100 listing Gained notoriety as prep kicker when video clip of successful 71-yard field goal at Kohl's Kicking Camp practice in Oct. 2014 went viral on YouTube Earned 2014 Class 6A All-State honorable mention at punter following senior season, helped Rowlett to 8-4 record and 6A DI area finals Averaged 38.4 yards on 23 punts Perfect on 22 PATs, hit 4-of-7 FGs (long 47) Named to 2014 Dave Campbell Texas Football All-Texas second team and first-team punter on 2014 All-District 11-6A squad Averaged 38 yards punting as junior in 2013, totaled 11 touchbacks on kickoffs Named second-team punter on 2013 All-District 11-5A squad Also played soccer at RHS, named All-District 11-5A second-team midfielder.
BRILES ON GALITZ
"Drew fills a need 100 percent, having lost Spencer (Roth). Drew can punt, kickoff and kick field goals. We signed him primarily as a punter right now to come in and be the guy. He's going to have to get on the fast track. We feel like he's the best in America. We're really glad that he's here."
JaMYCAL HASTY
RB - 5-8, 185 - Longview, Texas (Longview HS)
National top 300 recruit and All-American running back from Longview (Texas) High School Shifty and quick athlete played under head coach John King at LHS Ranked No. 204 national recruit by 247Sports, No. 213 by Rivals and No. 262 by ESPN Named Semper Fidelis All-American, played in 2015 all-star bowl game in Carson, Calif Rated sixth-best all-purpose back nationally by 247Sports Ranked 21st among running back prospects by ESPN and 40th by Scout Rated 28th overall prospect in Texas by 247Sports, 29th by Rivals and 37th by ESPN Ranked state's No. 24 overall prospect on Austin American-Statesman Fabulous 55, also among top 30 on Waco Tribune-Herald Top 100, 47th by Scout and 47th on Dave Campbell Texas Football Top 150 (rated seventh-best RB prospect in state in 2015 winter publication) Rushed for 158 yards on 20 attempts and totaled 80 yards and one TD on five receptions during 2014 injury-shortened senior season for 9-3 LHS squad that reached 5A DI area finals Earned 2013 Class 3A All-State honorable mention as junior after rushing for 1,420 yards and 13 TDs Also had 12 catches for 255 yards and three TDs while leading Longview to 11-2 record and 5A DII regional semifinals Named 2013 first team All-District 12-5A Ran for 340 yards and five touchdowns as sophomore in 2012 for 9-4 LHS team that reached regional semis Also played basketball and ran track at Longview.
BRILES ON HASTY
"JaMycal is a guy that we've had a great relationship with for a long time. He's a dynamic player, just a great running back, and he can return kicks if needed. He's a football junkie, a guy that really loves the sport, and really wants to be great at it."
JAMESON HOUSTON
DB - 6-1, 190 - Austin, Texas (St. Michael's Academy)
Two-time all-state two-way athlete from St. Michael's Academy in Austin, Texas Do-it-all play-maker, excelled as defensive back, receiver, running back and returner for head coach Darrell Pantalone at St. Michael's Rated nation's No. 63 athlete prospect by ESPN, and No. 76 among safety recruits by Scout Ranked 85th in state of Texas by Scout and 90th by ESPN Listed on Texas Top 150 by Dave Campbell Texas Football 2014 TAPPS DI All-State on both sides of ball (defensive back and athlete) as senior Had 33 tackles, four interceptions, two PBUs, forced fumble and 90-yard TD on interception return as starting safety Totaled 538 yards and six TDs on 24 receptions and 341 yards and four TDs on 34 rushes, scored two kick-return TDs (90 and 95 yards) Also 2014 first-team All-District 2-DI as both DB and utility back Named 2014 second team All-Central Texas as utility back by Austin American-Statesman Led St. Michael's to 8-3 record and 2013 DI regional semifinals as two-way starter Earned 2013 first team TAPPS DI All-State honors as both athlete and DB as junior Made 60 tackles (45 solo) and three interception returns for TDs as cornerback Offensively, had 530 yards and six TDs on 26 receptions and 420 yards and two TDs on 55 carries Also had kickoff return for TD and punt return for TD Earned 2012 second-team All-District 2-DI honors as sophomore wide receiver after helping St. Michael's to 12-1 record and DI semifinals Totaled 404 yards and four TDs on 23 catches and 47 yards on five rushes as sophomore Added one kick return TD Earned 2011 All-District 2-DI honorable mention as freshman running back Also played basketball (2013 honorable mention Class 5A TAPPS All-State) and track and field (won 2014 TAPPS 5A 200 meters with time of 21.51) at St. Michael's.
BRILES ON HOUSTON
"Jameson is a kid that's got everything in front of him. He's got a big frame and will play DB for us. He's got a great future in front of him. He's a fast kid, he'll run a low 21 maybe a 20 in the 200 (meters) this spring. He's a player where the surface is just starting to be scratched."
TYRONE HUNT
DL - 6-3, 235 - Arp, Texas (Arp HS)
All-state defensive lineman from Arp (Texas) High School Multi-sport athlete at AHS played football under head coach Dale Irwin... Rated No. 111 strongside defensive end prospect nationally by 247Sports Earned 2014 Class 3A All-State honorable mention on DL as senior Named 2014 District 8-3A Co-Defensive MVP for 2014 Arp squad that finished 9-2 and reached 3A DII area finals Totaled 60 tackles, 14 TFL, seven sacks, seven QB pressures, five forced fumbles and two PBUs as senior Named 2013 first team All-District 10-2A DII as junior Made 70 tackles, eight for loss, five sacks and three QB pressures for Arp's 2013 team that finished 7-5 and advanced to 2A DII area finals Totaled 50 tackles and 23 pancakes as sophomore in 2012 for AHS squad that finished 9-3 and made regional semifinals Also lettered in basketball and track and field at Arp Named second team 2014 All-District 18-2A in hoops as junior Threw shot put and discus, finished sixth in discus with mark of 151-2 at 2014 Texas state meet.
BRILES ON HUNT
"Tyrone is a big kid from a small school who has had to play both ways and multiple positions. We're really excited about getting him on campus. He's a big, strong, rangy player that throws the shot and discus. When he starts specializing he'll get the opportunity to really start shining. We want a guy with a great upside, and we feel like Tyrone has that."
CLAY JOHNSTON
LB - 6-2, 200 - Abilene, Texas (Wylie HS)
Two-time all-state linebacker from Wylie High School in Abilene, Texas Two-way player under head coach Hugh Sandifer at WHS Rated nation's 69th outside linebacker prospect by ESPN and 73rd by Scout Listed state's No. 10 LB recruit by Dave Campbell's Texas Football 2015 winter publication Listed among Texas Top 150 by Dave Campbell's Texas Football and No. 137 in-state prospect by ESPN Two-way all-state honoree as senior, named 2014 second team Class 4A All-State on defense and honorable mention running back Earned 2014 second-team All-Texas honors from Dave Campbell's Texas Football, named All-Big Country Super Team Player of Year by Abilene Reporter-News and District 3-4A MVP Led Wylie to 10-3 record, 2014 4A DI regional semifinals and No. 5 final ranking as senior Totaled 85 tackles (17 for loss), six sacks, 12 QB hurries, six PBUs and three forced fumbles Offensively, took over as starting tailback in week six after injury to teammate, ran for more than 1,050 yards and 19 TDs, also 200-plus yards on 10 receptions Also blocked three kicks and had 28-yard kickoff return on special teams as senior Named 2013 first team Class 3A All-State at linebacker as junior Selected 2013 All-Big Country Super Team Defensive MVP by Abilene Reporter-News after leading WHS to 8-4 record and to 3A DI area finals Made 138 tackles, 34 TFL, six sacks and five PBUs as junior Father, Kent, is strength and conditioning coach for the San Diego Chargers.
BRILES ON JOHNSTON
"Clay is an all-purpose guy from Abilene-Wylie. Played running back and linebacker. His dad is the head strength coach for the Chargers. He's a guy that's been around football all of his life. We feel like he's going to be a great addition for us on the defensive side of the ball at linebacker. He's a smart player who knows how to win and play tough."
LENOY JONES JR.
LB - 5-10, 215 - Waco, Texas (Midway HS)
All-state linebacker from nearby Midway High School in Hewitt, Texas Played under head coach Terry Gambill at MHS National position ranking among linebacker prospects: 59th by ESPN, 78th by 247Sports and 88th by Scout Named 2014 District 12-6A Defensive MVP and unanimous first team after leading Midway to 12-1 record and to 6A DII regional semifinals as senior Totaled 154 tackles, 10 for loss, nine QB hurries, three forced fumbles, two fumbles recovered, two PBUs and one sack, earned first-team 2014 Super Centex honors from Waco Tribune-Herald Earned 2013 Class 5A All-State honorable mention as junior, helped MHS to 9-3 record and to 5A DII area finals Totaled 162 tackles (10 for loss), three sacks and four PBUs, named to 2013 All-District 8-5A second team Made 61 tackles as sophomore on varsity for 2012 Midway team that finished 13-1 and in 5A DII state quarterfinals Teammate at MHS of fellow Baylor signee Devontre Stricklin and current Bear Jamie Jacobs Father Lenoy Jones Sr., D-line coach at Midway, played seven seasons as NFL linebacker for Oilers/Titans and Browns and collegiately at TCU.
BRILES ON JONES
"Lenoy is a local, from right here at Waco-Midway. His dad had a pretty storied career collegiately and in the NFL. He comes from a great family, and he's another great addition from Midway to Baylor. He's a great leader, a guy who plays very dynamically. He's got a great upside, and we love his passion and his motor. We're really happy that he's going to be a part of our family."
J.W. KETCHUM III
DB - 6-0, 190 - Houston, Texas (Lamar HS)
Multi-talented play-maker, played senior season at Lamar High School in Houston Amassed 5,705 yards and 99 TDs in final three prep seasons as versatile quarterback Rated No. 29 dual-threat quarterback prospect nationally by 247Sports Ranked 31st-top athlete prospect by ESPN and 41st safety recruit by Scout Top 50 Texas recruit, ranked 31st in state on Dave Campbell Texas Football Texas Top 150 (No. 4 "athlete" recruit per 2015 winter publication), 41st on Austin American-Statesman's Fabulous 55, 43rd by Rivals, 47th by ESPN, among top 50 on Waco Tribune-Herald's Top 100 and on Houston Chronicle Top 100 No. 58 prospect in region per ESPN Led head coach Tom Nolen's 2014 Lamar squad to 10-2 record and to 6A DI area finals Named 2014 District 20-6A MVP and to 2014 All-VYPE team Totaled 2,021 yards (589 on 32-of-87 passing, 1,432 on 117 rushes - 12.2 yards/carry) and 25 TDs (seven passing, 18 rushing) as senior at LHS Played junior and sophomore seasons at Marshall High School in Missouri City, Texas, under head coach James Williams Earned 2013 All-District 22-4A first-team honors as junior QB after leading MHS squad to 8-3 record and to 4A DII area finals Threw for 603 yards and 10 TDs on 50-of-115 passes and totaled 1,172 yards and 14 TDs on 88 carries as junior at Marshall Named 2012 District 22-4A Offensive MVP after leading MHS to 13-1 record and to DII regional finals as sophomore Totaled 40 TDs and 1,909 yards, threw for 744 yards and 12 scores on 59-of-85 passes and ran for 1,165 and 28 TDs on 118 attempts.
BRILES ON KETCHUM
"Talk to anybody from the city of Houston, and they'll tell you the most dynamic player this year was J.W. That's saying a lot coming out of that city. He's a guy that can do it all. He played high school QB. We're going to look at him as a return guy and safety. He's a player that can come in and have a chance to fight for playing time pretty quickly."
TONY NICHOLSON
DB - 5-9, 170 - Grand Prairie, Texas (South Grand Prairie HS)
Talented multi-position athlete from South Grand Prairie (Texas) High School Played quarterback, receiver and defensive back under head coach Brent Whitson at South Grand Prairie Ranked nation's 51st-best WR prospect by 247Sports and 88th by Scout Listed No. 59 among "athlete" prospects by ESPN Top 100 Texas recruit: ranked 65th on Dave Campbell's Texas Football Texas Top 150 (No. 8 "athlete" recruit per 2015 winter publication), 79th by 247Sports, 87th by ESPN, 97th by Scout and on Waco Tribune-Herald Top 100 Rated No. 108 among regional prospects by ESPN and 52nd top recruit (No. 3 among "athletes") on the SportsDay/DMN Area Top 100 Two-way standout as senior, totaled 447 yards and three TDs on 38 receptions, 273 yards and three scores on 44 carries, and threw for 43 yards and two TDs on 2-for-2 passing Defensively, added 10 solo tackles, five interceptions and pass breakup Named 2014 unanimous All-District 8-6A first team inside receiver Played quarterback as junior, passed for 628 yards and eight TDs, rushed for 622 yards and nine scores Named 2013 All-District 7-5A second-team QB.
BRILES ON NICHOLSON
"Tony has great upside coming in. He's a high school QB, receiver and played some DB. We're looking at Tony as a DB. He's a dynamic player that's used to making plays to help his football team win. So we're excited about getting a person that's been in that position on the defensive side of the ball. We feel like he can come in here and have a chance to compete and get on the field with a great upside. He's a great kid."
ERIC OGOR
LB - 6-0, 215 - Richmond, Texas (Foster HS)
Two-time all-state linebacker from Foster High School in Richmond, Texas Played under head coach Shaun McDowell at FHS Rated 48th-best OLB prospect by 247Sports and 125th by ESPN Ranked No. 94 recruit in region by 247Sports Named to 2014 Class 5A All-State second team and All-Greater Houston (Houston Chronicle) first team after leading Foster to 9-2 record and 5A DI bi-district finals Also earned 2014 District 24-5A Defensive Co-MVP and first-team linebacker as senior Totaled 134 tackles, 34 TFL, 15 sacks, nine forced fumbles, four PBUs and fumble recovered Earned 2013 Class 5A All-State second-team honors Helped FHS to 7-3 record and bi-district finals Made 120 tackles, 18 TFL and eight sacks as junior.
BRILES ON OGOR
"Eric is a dynamic linebacker from Richmond. He's a tough kid, he's explosive and has a fast motor and a good frame. He's a player that we think has a tremendous upside."
MAURICE PORTER
OL - 6-7, 315 - Missouri City, Texas (Marshall HS / Navarro College)
Dominant lineman and No. 1-rated junior college prospect in Texas per 247Sports from Navarro College Former national top-200 prospect out of high school, signed with Baylor in 2013 recruiting class Offensive lineman played two seasons under head coach Brian Mayper at Navarro National ratings among junior college prospects: 15th by 247Sports, 27th on ESPN JC50 (third among offensive tackles), 57th on Rivals JC100, 62nd by Scout Earned 83 percent coaches grade as sophomore, along with eight knockdowns and two pancakes on 2014 Navarro squad that finished 7-3 Started playing football as sophomore in high school, played three seasons under head coach James Williams at Marshall High School in Missouri City, Texas 198th overall national prospect in 2012 class out of high school on 247Sports's Top247 listing National position rankings: No. 17 (OT) by 247Sports, No. 24 (OG) by Scout, No. 35 (OT) by Rivals, No. 55 (OT) by ESPN State rankings among Texas recruits: No. 26 by 247Sports, No. 26 on Austin American-Statesman's Fabulous 55, No. 50 by SuperPrep, No. 55 by Rivals.com, Waco Tribune-Herald Texas Top 100 Fourth-best offensive line prospect in state according to Dave Campbell's Texas Football No. 7 offensive lineman recruit on Dallas Morning News/SportsDay's State Top 100 listing Listed on VYPE/Rivals publication's Houston Top 100 Participated in 2012 Offense-Defense All-American Bowl in Houston following senior season Led Marshall to 13-1 record and 2012 4A DII quarterfinals as senior Named first team 2011 All-District 23-5A honoree as junior in second season playing sport Also named 2011 second-team All-Sun by Sugar Land Sun.
BRILES ON PORTER
"Maurice is coming from Navarro, we recruited him out of high school. He's rated the No. 1. J.C. tackle in America. The journey is getting closer to an end, and once he steps on campus he's a player that will have an opportunity to contribute immediately. He has a great frame."
DEVONTRE STRICKLIN
WR - 6-1, 180 - Waco, Texas (Midway HS)
National top 300 prospect, wide receiver from nearby Midway High School in Hewitt, Texas Elite athlete played under head coach Terry Gambill at Midway Ranked No. 230 national recruit by 247Sports and No. 257 on ESPN300 listing Member of USA Football national team (under 19) to play in 2015 International Bowl in Arlington, Texas National position ranking among wide receiver prospects: 25th by 247Sports, 31st by ESPN, 63rd by Scout In-state rankings: No. 30 by 247Sports, No. 34 by ESPN, No. 53 on Austin American-Statesman's Fabulous 55, No. 59 by Rivals, No. 63 by Scout, No. 77 on LoneStar Top 100, No. 78 on Dave Campbell's Texas Football Top 150 and on Waco Tribune-Herald Top 100 Rated 43rd prospect in region by ESPN Named 2014 first team All-Texas (Dave Campbell's Texas Football), first team Super Centex (Waco Tribune-Herald) and unanimous first team All-District 12-6A Totaled 1,309 yards and 12 TDs on 67 receptions as senior, led Midway to 12-1 record and 6A DII regional semifinals Had 45 catches for 1,023 yards and 14 TDs as junior, for MHS squad that finished 9-3 and made 5A DII area finals Teammate at MHS of fellow Baylor signee Lenoy Jones Jr. and current Bear Jamie Jacobs Jumper on MHS track and field squad, recorded marks of 47-7 (triple jump), 22-3 ¾ (long jump) and 6-0 (high jump).
BRILES ON STRICKLIN
"Another local addition from Waco-Midway. He had a great career there. We feel he's got great upside, he's a track jumper with outstanding hands, and a competitor going after the ball. He's a dynamic player with a dynamic personality to back it up. Just a great kid. We're extremely excited about our two Midway players that have chosen to stay here."
SAM TECKLENBURG
ATH - 6-3, 280 - Plano, Texas (Plano HS)
Two-time all-state performer from Plano (Texas) High School Two-way athlete played tight end, offensive line and defensive tackle in four varsity seasons at Plano under head coach Jaydon McCullough Participated in 2014 NUC Senior All-American Game in South Carolina following senior season Rated nation's No. 58 prospect among offensive guards (sixth in Texas) by Scout Ranked 76th among DT prospects by ESPN and 105th among tight ends by 247Sports Listed on Dave Campbell's Texas Football Texas Top 150 Rated No. 46 on SportsDay/DMN Area Top 100 (11th offensive lineman) Earned 2014 Class 6A All-State honorable mention at DL and named 2014 District 6-6A Co-Defensive MVP as senior Totaled 47 tackles, six TFL, six QB hurries and two sacks for 7-4 Plano squad Also made seven receptions for 118 yards and one TD at tight end Named 2013 second team Class 5A All-State on DL as junior First team All-District 10-5A on both sides of ball (DL and TE) Had six tackles for loss and 2.5 sacks for 2013 Plano squad that finished 7-4 Earned 2012 first team All-District 10-5A distinction as both DT (unanimous) and TE as sophomore Father Kerry played collegiately at North Texas and Texas Tech.
BRILES ON TECKLENBURG
"We think Sam can play center, guard, D-tackle, D-end or H-back. He can do it all. So, we're just really excited about his journey. He's very strong and very athletic. He played both sides of the ball in high school. He played tight end and defensive end. He's a player that has an opportunity to have a great career here at Baylor."
JORDAN TOLBERT
DB - 5-10, 160 - Missouri City, Texas (Ridge Point HS)
Defensive back standout from Ridge Point High School in Missouri City, Texas Two-time all-district honoree for head coach Brett Sniffin at RPHS Rated nation's 40th best cornerback prospect by 247Sports, 41st by ESPN and 96th by Scout Top 100 Texas recruit: ranked 60th prospect in state by 247Sports, 88th on Dave Campbell's Texas Football Texas Top 150 (No. 8 CB recruit in state per 2015 winter publication), 89th on LoneStar Top 100, 95th by ESPN and on Waco Tribune-Herald's Top 100 Listed on Houston Chronicle's Houston Top 100 Missed senior season in 2014 due to knee injury Named second team 2013 All-District 22-4A as junior Made 16 tackles, two interceptions, two PBUs and totaled 321 return yards for Ridge Point squad that finished 9-3 and in 4A DII area finals Earned 2012 second team All-District 22-4A honors and made three interceptions as sophomore.
BRILES ON TOLBERT
"Jordan is explosive, and very fast. He tore his ACL last spring and missed his whole senior season, but he's healthy now and he's ready to go. He's a great kid, a dynamic player with great ball skills. We're really excited to get him on campus, get him around our guys and turn him loose and let him play. "
JORDAN WILLIAMS
LB - 6-0, 210 - Paris, Texas (Paris HS)
Two-time all-state linebacker from Paris (Texas) High School Played under head coach Steven Hohenberger at PHS Ranked No. 116 national linebacker prospect by 247Sports Earned 2014 Class 4A All-State honorable mention as senior Led Paris to 8-5 record and 4A DI regional semifinals Named District 7-4A Defensive MVP and to all-district first team Totaled 160 tackles, 26 TFL, six sacks and four forced fumbles as senior Earned 2013 Class 3A All-State honorable mention as junior Named 2013 District 13-3A Special Teams MVP and first team all-district Earned All-Red River Valley first-team honors after totaling 143 tackles, six sacks, two fumble recoveries and forced fumble as junior Named 2012 Red River Valley Newcomer of Year as sophomore Helped Paris to 8-4 record and DI regional semifinals, made 88 tackles, 21 TFL, six sacks, three forced fumbles and fumble recovery Also lettered in baseball at PHS.
BRILES ON WILLIAMS
"Jordan is a tough player, he's explosive and plays with high energy and a high motor. He's very athletic, and in our league you've got to have guys that can run and make plays defensively; and Jordan certainly fits that mold."
SPRING ENROLLEES:
DOMINIC DeSOUZA
OL - 6-7, 300 - Pacifica, Calif. (Terra Nova HS / City College of San Francisco)
Junior college transfer offensive lineman from City College of San Francisco has two years of eligibility Rated 35th-best prospect on Rivals' Juco 100 and No. 92 on Scout's Juco Top 100 Two-year starter at CCSF under head coach Jimmy Collins, helped Rams to consecutive wins in the San Francisco Community College Bowl in 2013 and 2014 Led San Francisco to 11-2 record and state runner-up finish in 2014 as sophomore Starter for Rams squad that finished 8-3 and beat Sierra 59-31 in SFCC Bowl as freshman in 2013 Prepped at Terra Nova High School in Pacifica, Calif., under head coach Bill Gray Earned 2012 first-team All-PAL Bay Division and second-team All-Mercury News honors following senior season at TNHS Anchored O-line for offense that averaged 419 yards per game in 2012.
BRILES ON DeSOUZA
"Dominic is huge, and athletic. Anytime we take a J.C. guy we take them as a potential starter, so he's a guy we feel like will be a potential starter for us. I don't know if it'll be this fall, but he's certainly a big body that's athletic."
DEVONTE JONES
C - 6-2, 305 - Houston, Texas (Bellaire HS)
Member of Baylor's 2014 signing class, enrolled at Baylor in January 2015, will participate in spring drills Two-time all-district offensive lineman at Bellaire High School in Houston Three-year starter under head coach Trey Sissom at BHS Rated nation's 74th-best guard prospect in 2014 signing class by 247Sports, ranked 81st by both ESPN and Scout Included on Houston Top 100 listing (one of 16 offensive linemen) by VYPE/Rivals Named first-team 2013 All-District 20-5A as senior after leading Bellaire to 8-3 record and DI bi-district finals Earned 86 percent coach's grade and totaled 34 pancake blocks and 123 de-cleat blocks as senior Earned 2012 second-team All-District 20-5A honors as junior guard Starting guard on BHS 2011 squad that finished 7-4 and reached DI bi-district finals.
BRILES ON D. JONES
"Devonte is a high school kid that we greyshirted. He has good size and we're looking at him as a future center down the road. He's somebody that can come in, redshirt, then be able to compete for playing time in a few years. Very athletic, good frame, good body."
BLAKE LYNCH
WR - 6-2, 195 - Gilmer, Texas (Gilmer HS)
National top 200 recruit from Gilmer (Texas) High School Versatile, All-American athlete rated nation's 86th-best recruit on 247Sports's Top247 Named 2015 U.S. Army All-American, chose not to play in 2015 U.S. Army All-American Bowl in San Antonio Ranked No. 185 overall prospect by ESPN National position rating: eighth by 247Sports (athlete), 21st by Rivals (WR), 25th by Scout (S) and 30th by EPSN (athlete) Runner-up for 2014 "Mr. Texas Football" by Dave Campbell's Texas Football Rankings among prospects in Texas: 15th by 247Sports, 15th on Dave Campbell Texas Football's Texas Top 150, 23rd on Austin American-Statesman's Fabulous 55, 27th by Rivals, 42nd on LoneStar Top 100, 46th by ESPN and 48th by Scout Named No. 2 "athlete" recruit in state by Dave Campbell's Texas Football 2015 winter publication Named MVP among QBs at 2013 APEC/ETSN combine State champion at Gilmer, led head coach's Jeff Traylor squad to perfect 16-0 season as senior in 2014 Named offensive MVP of 4A DII state championship game, totaled 117 yards on seven touches and scored twice in fourth quarter come-from-behind 35-25 win over West-Orange Stark Earned 2014 second-team Class 4A All-State honors as wide receiver after amassing 2,220 combined yards and 38 offensive TDs while playing running back, receiver, quarterback, safety and cornerback at GHS Totaled 1,043 yards and 16 TDs on 47 receptions, 888 yards and 19 TDs on 72 rushes (16.2 average yards-per-rush/reception), and 289 yards and three TDs on 13-of-17 passing Defensively, totaled 40 tackles, three interceptions, one fumble recovery and two defensive TDs Named 2014 first team All-Texas utility back and 4A DII Region I & II Player of Year (Dave Campbell's Texas Football) 2014 District 5-4A DII Co-MVP and first-team All-East Texas (ETSN) Transferred to Gilmer from Troup (Texas) High School, played quarterback as sophomore and junior under head coach Dennis Alexander at THS Totaled 750 yards and 11 TDs passing and 650 yards and 13 TDs rushing during injury-shortened junior season in 2013 (broken arm) Led Troup to 9-2 record and 2012 bi-district finals as sophomore Totaled more than 1,500 yards of total offense and earned 2012 District 9-2A Offensive Newcomer of the Year honors as sophomore Jumped and ran sprints for GHS track and field squad, member of 4x200 relay team that finished fifth at 2014 state meet Also played basketball, was 2013 District 18-2A Newcomer of Year as sophomore at Troup.
BRILES ON LYNCH
"Blake is just a big guy, a fast guy, a stud and a winner. He's very mature with himself on and off the football field. He's really mature for being a mid-year guy, senior in high school. He's a great addition, a guy that's really going to be an impact player."
JARRETT STIDHAM
QB - 6-3, 195 - Stephenville, Texas (Stephenville HS)
Blue chip recruit and top 50 national prospect from Stephenville (Texas) High School All-American dual-threat quarterback rated nation's No. 13 overall recruit on 247Sports Top247 list Three-time all-state honoree (as QB and receiver) under head coach Joseph Gillespie and multi-sport athlete at SHS Named Under Armour All-American and played in 2015 prep all-star game in Florida Ranked 33rd overall national prospect by Scout and 37th on ESPN300 listing National position ranking among QB prospects: Top-rated dual-threat prospect by 247Sports, second by ESPN and sixth by Rivals; rated third among traditional QBs by Scout Listed No. 2 overall recruit in state of Texas by 247Sports Other Texas Top 100 listings: No. 6 by Scout, No. 6 on Dave Campbell's Texas Football Texas Top 150, No. 7 by ESPN, No. 9 by Rivals, No. 9 on LoneStar Top 100, No. 11 on Austin American-Statesman's Fabulous 55 and Waco Tribune-Herald (Top 30) Named 2014 second team All-Texas by Dave Campbell's Texas Football 2015 winter publication Standout at 2014 Elite 11 competition in Oregon summer prior to senior season Led Stephenville to 9-4 record, to 2014 4A DI regional finals and No. 6 final ranking as senior Earned 2014 Class 4A All-State second-team honors despite missing most of two games due to hand injury (earned 2014 "The Davey: Iron Man Award" for comeback from injury to throwing hand by Dave Campbell's Texas Football) Compiled 3,903 total yards and 50 TDs; threw for 2,934 yards and 35 TDs on 183-of-260 passes, ran for 969 yards and 15 TDs on 122 carries Named 2014 first team All-District 3-4A and second team 2014 All-Texas (Dave Campbell's Texas Football) Selected 2013 third team Class 3A All-State as junior, led SHS to 12-2 record and 3A DI state semifinals Threw for 2,613 yards and 30 TDs on 156-of-254 passes and rushed for 821 yards and 14 TDs on 138 carries Earned 2013 District 7-3A MVP as junior Played receiver as sophomore, totaled 685 yards and 11 TD receptions on Stephenville's 2012 Class 3A DI state championship squad Earned 2012 Class 3A All-State honorable mention as receiver All-District honoree in basketball, also ran track at Stephenville.
BRILES ON STIDHAM
"Jarrett is very mature, a mid-year impact player. We're excited to watch his growth throughout the next few years; he has a bright future."
