Texas Tech Football Program Sees Surge in Recruitment

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Texas Tech is enhancing its football facilities to attract top recruits.

News Summary

Texas Tech University’s football program is witnessing a significant improvement in its recruitment efforts, attracting elite players and commitments, including standout five-star offensive tackle Felix Ojo. With strategic investments and facility upgrades, the Red Raiders aim for a top 20 national ranking in recruiting. The recent shift in talent acquisition highlights a competitive landscape within the Big 12 Conference, potentially reshaping Texas Tech’s future in college football as it capitalizes on new opportunities following the departures of powerhouse teams.

Lubbock, Texas – Texas Tech University’s football program is experiencing a remarkable surge in recruitment, marked by a series of high-profile commitments from elite high school players. With the upcoming month of July 2025 viewed as pivotal for the Red Raiders, head coach Joey McGuire and his staff have successfully attracted five-star and blue-chip talent, significantly enhancing the team’s prospects for the future.

Among the standout commitments is five-star offensive tackle Felix Ojo, who is ranked among the top 10 players nationally. Ojo’s commitment is particularly noteworthy as it includes a lucrative reported three-year revenue-sharing deal valued at $5.1 million, marking him as the highest-rated recruit in Texas Tech’s history. Other prestigious recruits joining Texas Tech include four-star wide receiver Chase Campbell, four-star running back Ashton Rowden, and four-star safety Donovan Webb, who notably switched his commitment from Michigan to the Red Raiders.

This influx of talent has propelled Texas Tech’s recruiting class from 34th to 25th nationally according to 247Sports, with the coaching staff aiming to break into the top 20 in upcoming recruiting cycles. The Red Raiders are also currently ranked 23rd in the 2026 class rankings, improving from 36th, thanks to a total of eight commitments thus far.

The surge in recruitment is attributed to a revamped recruiting strategy that positions Texas Tech as a strong contender in the name, image, and likeness (NIL) landscape. Investments exceeding $28 million into the roster this year, alongside a $240 million facility enhancement project, are expected to elevate Texas Tech into the ranks of consistent top-10 recruiting teams.

The battle for premier recruits is becoming increasingly competitive within the Big 12 Conference, particularly between Texas Tech and Baylor. National analyst Sam Spiegelman indicates that this rivalry is one of the most heated in the Big 12. Texas Tech’s notable acquisition of Ojo, a player heavily pursued by both Texas and Ohio State, exemplifies a momentum shift for the program.

Historically, Texas Tech has struggled to secure top-tier recruits, finishing among the top 25 in the 247Sports Composite team rankings only twice since the modern recruiting era began in 2011. However, the departures of powerhouse teams like Texas and Oklahoma have opened new avenues for potential success, giving Texas Tech an opportunity to redefine itself within the conference and reshape the recruiting landscape for years to come.

In conclusion, Texas Tech’s recent recruitment successes and strategic enhancements signify a turning point for the Red Raiders football program. With strong commitments from elite high school players and a commitment to elevating their recruiting capabilities, Texas Tech is poised to become a formidable force in college football as it prepares for an exciting future.