ESPN College Football Recruiting

Originally Published: October 30, 2009

Texas defensive crop boasts No.1 player

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By Craig Haubert
Scouts Inc.
Archive

It has been well chronicled that high school football holds a special place in the hearts of many Texans. With the sport being held in such high regard in the Lone Star State, it's no shock that the region annually produces a long list of prospects and the 2010 class is no different. At this point it has 24 ESPNU 150 prospects and the state is currently home to the nation's top prospect in defensive end Jackson Jeffcoat (Plano, Texas/West). This look at talent in Texas focuses on defensive players. The talent on the defensive side of the ball in the state is stronger in this class, especially at the top. Texas boasts not only the No. 1 defensive end, but also the top two defensive tackles in the class as well as four top-10 outside linebacker prospects and two top-10 safeties.

Top recruit

The state of Texas has never had the No. 1 overall player in the ESPNU 150, but Jackson Jeffcoat (Plano, Texas/West) is vying to be the first. Also a talented basketball player, Jeffcoat is an excellent defensive end who blends ability, athleticism and a heady style of play to be successful. The son of a former NFL defensive lineman and a current defensive line coach at the FBS level, Jeffcoat has soaked up some of the finer points of the position. With his size and skill, he can be a tough defender versus the run and pass. He is one of the better pass-rushers we have seen over the years because he displays the ability and understanding of how to use moves and set up blockers to defeat them and get to quarterback. Jeffcoat, who is uncommitted, remains one of the nation's most sought-after prospects. He's looking at programs like Oklahoma, Texas and USC.

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