Nine choose Longhorns on Sunday

Four Central Texans among UT commitments.

By Alan Trubow

AMERICAN-STATESMAN STAFF

Monday, February 12, 2007

The University of Texas football team picked up nine verbal commitments on Sunday, with four coming from Central Texas.

Area players who gave their pledge to the Longhorns were Austin High lineman Mark Buchanan, Westlake kicker Justin Tucker, Giddings athlete Brock Fitzhenry and McNeil defensive back Aaron Williams.

"I think it says there's a lot of great football being played in Central Texas," said Buchanan, a 6-foot-5-inch, 265-pound lineman. "There are a lot of guys out here who can play."

The Longhorns also grabbed Brenham running back Ryan Roberson, Allen wide receiver Dan Buckner, Gilmer offensive lineman David Snow, Angleton defensive back D.J. Monroe and Alief Elsik running back Jeremy Hills.

Texas, which had most of its commitments for 2007 by last April, might have most of its '08 class in place by the end of February.

"I've always wanted to go to Texas, having lived in Austin my entire life," Buchanan said. "It just seemed like the right choice. They've got a great football team, and there's a chance to play for the national championship every year."

Tucker's commitment is a bit surprising, considering the Horns committed a scholarship to a kicker last year in Hunter Lawrence. But Tucker, rated by some as the top kicker in the nation for his class, wasn't about to pass up a Texas offer.

"I've lived around here and always wanted to be a Longhorn. I'm truly blessed," said Tucker, who chose Texas over Oklahoma State, Ohio State, Florida and Notre Dame.

As for the biggest name, that might be Buckner. The 6-5 receiver is already drawing comparison to Roy Williams and Limas Sweed.