With Nick Saban’s retirement, the Duncanville product is returning home.
Through the NCAA transfer portal, the Texas Longhorns strengthened their linebacker room, and on Tuesday,la Abama Crimson Tide transfer Kendrick Blackshire committed to the Longhorns.
His official program announcement was made swiftly by the Longhorns.
Blackshire explained his choice to On3, citing “the coaching staff, Sark, and being back home in the greatest state, Texas.” It’s very important to me. Being surrounded by those who wish to see me succeed is another.
Blackshire, who still has a year to be eligible, made his choice over the weekend after making formal visits to Ole Miss and Texas.
According to the 247Sports Composite rankings, Blackshire was a prospect who committed early to the Alabama Crimson Tide and current Texas assistant Jeff Banks during the COVID recruiting season. He was ranked No. 168 overall and No. 21 linebacker in the nation. In addition, the Longhorns provided Blackshire and close to thirty other programs.
The 6’2, 233-pound Blackshire made eight appearances for the Crimson Tide in 2023, recording 16 tackles, one forced fumble, and a crucial role on special teams for Alabama.
Blackshire, an enthusiastic hitter and well-built linebacker, is well-known for his run-game prowess—one area where Texas will probably need more help in the upcoming season. Johnny Nansen, the new linebackers coach, will have some work ahead of him with the physical specimen as he still needs to improve his throwing game.
With David Gbenda’s announcement of his return for a second season, the Longhorns already have positive news in the linebacker room, which strengthens the position room even more. Pete Kwiatkowski’s defensive approach is centered around Blackshire and Gbenda, who join Anthony Hill, the current Big 12 Defensive Freshman of the Year.
