AUSTIN — The Texas Longhorns are adding a local product to their 2026 recruiting class this offseason.
Per reports from On3’s Hayes Fawcett, three-star safety Yaheim Riley has committed to Texas over Ole Miss, Houston and Vanderbilt. He originally committed to Houston in December before decommitting on April 13.
“Been in my bag, why not keep going,” Riley told Fawcett. “All Glory to God.”
A product of Austin Anderson High School just 20 minutes from campus, Riley will be staying home to play his college ball. He also received offers from programs like Arizona State, Texas Tech, Maryland, Arizona, Washington, Utah, TCU, North Texas, Baylor, Stanford, Nevada and many more.
Riley still has official visits set with Vanderbilt (June 6) and Texas (June 13).
According to 247Sports’ rankings, Riley is the No. 96 overall safety in the 2026 recruiting class and the No. 139 overall player in Texas.
Over the past two seasons, he’s posted 155 tackles (nine for loss), two sacks, two forced fumbles, one fumble recovery, six pass breakups and seven interceptions.
Riley now joins a Texas 2026 class that features five-star talents like athlete Jermaine Bishop Jr., long snapper Trott O’Neal, four-star quarterback Dia Bell and three-star talents like wide receiver Chris Stewart, cornerback Hayward Howard Jr., offensive lineman Nicolas Robertson and offensive tackle Max Wright.
The Longhorns landed the commitment from Bishop Jr. on Wednesday, instantly giving them one of the top overall players in the class.
Texas will begin the 2025 season on the road against the defending national champion Ohio State Buckeyes on Saturday, Aug. 30.
Interview: College Football Analyst Debriefs Yaheim Riley’s Commitment to Texas Longhorns
Archyde News recently sat down with esteemed college football analyst, Dr. Emily Carter, to delve into the implications of Yaheim Riley’s commitment to the Texas Longhorns. Dr. Carter, a recognized expert in recruiting and player development, provided valuable insights into this notable development.
Archyde News: Dr. Carter, thanks for joining us. Riley’s commitment to Texas is a big story. what are your initial thoughts on this commitment?
Dr. carter: Certainly, it’s a significant win for the longhorns. Securing a local talent of Riley’s caliber is always impactful. He’s a three-star safety, yes, but his performance-155 tackles, seven interceptions-speaks volumes.This shows a commitment to the program from a player who has proven to be a game changer.
Archyde News: Riley decommitted from Houston before choosing Texas. How does this impact the Longhorns’ recruiting strategy?
Dr. Carter: It highlights Texas’ continued ability to attract top talent, even when they’ve been previously committed elsewhere. It demonstrates a strong recruiting pitch and the Longhorns’ appeal, especially to local players. Riley had a commitment to Houston, Ole Miss, and Vanderbilt on his radar, so this victory is even sweeter when taking into consideration the other schools he was considering. This proves Texas’ persistent strength in attracting players.
Archyde News: The 2026 class is already shaping up nicely for Texas. How does Riley fit within the bigger picture of this recruiting class?
Dr. Carter: He adds much-needed depth and competition in the secondary. Plus, the Longhorns already have some strong players and some five-star talent to complement them. This also enhances the overall talent pool. His presence alongside Jermaine Bishop Jr. and Dia Bell, as an example, creates a strong foundation for the future.
Archyde News: Riley’s profile mentions multiple offers. What does this show to be a player of his caliber and popularity level?
Dr. Carter: A player, like Riley, that’s in demand from multiple schools shows he’s a dynamic talent, and is a player that can consistently improve and become an integral part of the team. This kind of versatility is crucial for success at the collegiate level.
Archyde News: Considering the Longhorns will face Ohio State in the 2025 season opener, how does this commitment affect the team’s mindset as it builds towards future seasons?
Dr. Carter: Secure players such as Riley that commit now can immediately affect team drive and motivation.It boosts the team’s morale knowing they are committed to play alongside a player with the determination such as Rileys. It sets a tone of serious progress in the Longhorns’ long-term goals of competing and winning at the highest level.
Archyde News: Looking ahead, what is the most critically important thing for Texas to do now?
Dr. Carter: The most critically important thing is to build a strong program and build team chemistry with the up-and-coming players. This means supporting Riley’s development and integrating him within the program. It also means building upon the momentum of their already stellar 2026 class, and solidifying the roster as it prepares for tough competition.
Archyde News: Dr. Carter, what’s one question you’d pose to the Texas Longhorns’ coaching staff at this stage?
Dr.Carter: I’d ask: “How do you intend to leverage Yaheim Riley’s strengths to optimize the defense’s performance, and how will his development be prioritized among the other incoming talents?”
Archyde News: Dr.Carter, thank you for offering such valuable expertise!
