Texas Tech football: Red Raiders in good shape with recruiting class
The Recruits
The star of the class, quarterback Behren Morton, is a real difference-maker. The four-star recruit is the ninth-highest recruit in program history and is rated more highly than Graham Harrell or Patrick Mahomes were when they came out of high school. He’s got the arm and the mobility to be a star and will enroll in January, so he can challenge for the starting job in 2021.
Texas Tech is losing receivers T.J. Vasher and KeSean Carter, but incoming receiver Jerand Bradley, who stands at 6’5″, will also enroll early and could see the field next year. Wells referred to him as “explosive” and said he can be a weapon in the red zone and runs routes really well for someone his age. Bradley was given a four-star rating by 247sports and a three-star rating by Rivals.
Also helping in the receiving game are a pair of tight ends, Jed Castles and Mason Tharp, who each stand somewhere between 6’6″ and 6’8″ depending on what scouting report you see. Wells noted Castles’ speed and athleticism, and either one of these guys could be the next Jace Amaro. Both will also enroll early and were given three-star ratings by both Rivals and 247sports.
Also joining the fray is running back Cam’Ron Valdez, who was given a four-star rating by Rivals and a three-star by 247sports. Wells noted both his speed and power and praised his vision. Having Valdez join Sarodorick Thompson, Xavier White and Tahj Brooks could give the Red Raiders great depth in the backfield and allow them to run more two-back sets.
Stud offensive lineman Jack Anderson is off to the NFL, but Wells brought in a possible successor in lineman Jacoby Jackson, who he described as a “road grader” who can play multiple spots on the line. Fellow lineman Jack Tucker is described as a “legit left tackle in the Big 12,” and you can’t have too many of those. Both Rivals and 247sports gave them three-star grades.
On the defensive side, Texas Tech got some much-needed help up front after a difficult year depth-wise and now with Eli Howard’s departure. Three-star lineman Charles Esters is a pass-rushing defensive end, while three-star E’maurion Banks is a “true four-technique” player who can play on the inside.
Isaac Smith, given a three-star rating by 247sports and a two-star rating by Rivals, is described as an “extremely athletic” player who can add some weight. Wells also has a verbal commitment from three-star defensive tackle Demeco Roland, so he may be joining the team as well.