Texas Longhorns have the chance to land an elite defensive playmaker with versatility over other blue-blood schools
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The Texas Longhorns have been recruiting well, but they really need to land this four-star linebacker in the 2027 class.
The Texas Longhorns have been doing a good job gathering up their 2027 recruiting class. They currently sit at No. 13 in 2027, according to On3, below some very, very good teams. 13th isn't bad, either, and there is still a long way to go in the cycle. In fact, the Longhorns could land an elite player who's a top-five at his position in the class.
According to Hayes Fawcett, four-star linebacker Toa Satele is down to four schools, and the 6'3, 225-pound LB from Mililani, Hawaii, has his eyes set on Texas for one of those four. He also has Cal, Oregon, and Notre Dame in there. The Longhorns are at a disadvantage here-Oregon and Cal are known for landing Hawaiian players because of their proximity to the island. Texas is significantly further away. The flight difference is about five hours, which is significant.
Right now, Rivals has Cal leading the way for the No. 4 LB, and No. 68 player in the country. Cal is projected to land Satele at 25.4%, with Oregon at 22.2% and Texas at 19%. Notre Dame is the lowest at 12%.
Here is what Satele brings to the table, and what all of these teams are fighting for:
Toa Satele Scouting Report
"Versatile linebacker who has the ability to play multiple spots and could even grow into an edge in a few years. Has a long 6-foot-3, 210-pound frame with room to add good weight. Plays both inside and off-ball linebacker, shows natural pass rush skill, and is comfortable playing in space. Fluid mover who can drop and cover and runs well enough to make plays sideline to sideline. Closes well on the football, takes sound angles, and is a highly instinctive player. Father Sampson played offensive line for Hawaii and was a 2nd round pick of the Miami Dolphins, so Toa was raised on the game and has a high football IQ. A natural athlete who we've seen working out at tight end at camps and showcases, and could play the position in college as well, but defense is definitely where his upside is highest. Projects as a high Power 4 athlete with an NFL ceiling." Greg Biggins, Rivals Scouting
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