Brooks is a priority

Houston Stratford linebacker, Texas Tech commit Jordyn Brooks --who holds offers from Washington, Missouri, Arkansas, Houston and others -- is one of the headliners of the Red Raiders' defense-heavy 2016 recruiting class.

WHAT'S NEXT?:

At 6-foot-1, 232 pounds, the three-star has the size and the build to jump right into the action as a true freshman and that opportunity was a main factor in his initial pledge to the Red Raiders. If Brooks could have the type of freshman year that linebacker D'Vonta Hinton has had, it would be a big step forward for the Red Raider defense -- which looks to be extremely young in 2016 -- but first Tech has to make sure he signs his letter of intent. In the past month, Arkansas, Oklahoma and Texas A&M have had their eyes on the linebacker and he might visit those programs and is "still thinking about it right now."

IN HIS WORDS:

"(The defensive coaching changes) kind of caught me off guard. It was a surprising move and I found out (Sunday). Obviously, they are doing it to better the defense, so I think it can be a positive thing."

OUR REACTION:

The Red Raiders jumped on Brooks early, and his production as a senior has shown

that their decision to make him a priority and earn a commitment was well worth

it. Now they'll have to try and hold onto him as the Razorbacks, Aggies, Sooners

and try to force their way into the picture. -- Will McKay