Kennedale all-star safety chose Texas over Oregon, LSU. Why did the Horns stand out?
J.D. Coffey had some thinking to do leading up to his commitment in June.
Texas, Oregon or LSU?
The Longhorns came calling his name. Kennedale’s 4-star all-state safety chose the Horns on June 15, turning down more than 30 other programs.
“It felt like home. I’ve been to Austin a couple times and I love the city,” Coffey said. “It felt like a unit and I really like the coaches. I had a great bond with them going up there.”
Coffey, a three-time Class 4A Associated Press all-state selection, is ranked as the No. 7 safety in the nation for his class. He’s also the No. 29 best player in the state, according to 247Sports. He’s accounted for 200 tackles and 15 interceptions in three seasons.
Other offers included Baylor, Michigan and Washington - who were also in his Top 6 in April.
“I knew Austin was the place for me. There was no reason to wait. It was the perfect time,” Coffey said. “I have a better opportunity to play. The defense they run, I’m familiar with.”
But why turn down the Ducks or the national champion Tigers?
Coffey said the family relationship Texas showed set the Longhorns apart.
“The love between the coaches and I were real,” he said. “They take pride in the relationship with my family. I’m a family person so that meant a lot to me.”
Coffey is one of 15 Texas commits from the Class of 2021, including six from Dallas-Fort Worth. Everman’s Juan Davis and Arlington Martin’s Morice Blackwell are also from Tarrant County.
Texas’ 2021 recruiting class is ranked No. 12 in the country and No. 1 in the Big 12.
“He can stay in the state and play for a program like Texas. He’s certainly excited and of course, we’re excited for him,” Kennedale head coach Richard Barrett said. “He’s put in so much time, effort and energy, and devotion to his craft and getting better. He’s a guy that doesn’t just play the game, but he understands the game, he’s a student of the game.
“He’s close enough where we can watch some games. We’re really excited for him and his family.”
