Five-Star Tight End Shocker: Texas Longhorns Stun Ohio State to Land Nation’s Top Prospect Mark Bowman
In a jaw-dropping twist that has sent shockwaves across the college football landscape, the Texas Longhorns have pulled off a major recruiting coup, landing the commitment of Mark Bowman, the No. 1 ranked tight end in the 2025 class. The 6’6”, 245-pound phenom from Chandler, Arizona, had been long considered a heavy Ohio State lean—until today.
Bowman made the announcement on a nationally televised segment, donning a burnt orange Texas hat and declaring, “I’m taking my talents to Austin. Hook ‘Em!” The moment not only sent Texas fans into a frenzy, but also left Buckeye Nation stunned.
For months, Ohio State was seen as the frontrunner. Bowman had visited Columbus multiple times, and his strong relationship with tight ends coach Keenan Bailey was well-documented. But behind the scenes, Texas head coach Steve Sarkisian and tight ends coach Jeff Banks were quietly making their move.
Sources close to Bowman say the Longhorns impressed not just with their NIL package—which insiders say rivals the top offers in the country—but with their vision for his role in the offense. Sarkisian reportedly sold Bowman on being the next Brock Bowers, with a hybrid TE/WR role that would feature him as a focal point in the passing game from Day 1.
This commitment is a massive win for Texas, who are looking to solidify themselves as an SEC power. Bowman marks the third five-star pledge in Texas’ 2025 class and sends a strong message to rivals: the Longhorns are no longer just “back”—they’re building a dynasty.
As for Ohio State, this loss stings. Not only did they lose a premier talent, but they did so to a rising SEC rival. Recruiting wars are rarely this dramatic, but Mark Bowman’s shocking flip just reminded the nation: in college football, nothing is ever certain.
