The Texas Longhorns and Texas A&M Aggies’ rivalry was revived earlier last year with Texas’ decision to join the SEC. This marked their first matchup in over 13 years! Moreover, the rivalry which has been re-ignited on the field is now also transferring off the field. How? Well, the Longhorns and Aggies are now in a recruiting battle for one of the best running back prospects from the class of 2026.

The running back we’re talking about is none other than Texas’ very own KJ Edwards! He’s a four-star rated recruit who plays for Carthage in Texas. Although both teams are looking to be locked in for the upcoming season, they seem to have an eye for 2026 as well. Edwards is a 5-foot-11, 165-pounder and is an absolute unit on the field. Moreover, he has had a phenomenal junior season where he averaged 14 yards per carry. He’s also led his team to a state championship, being named the offensive MVP in the process.

This also included an incredible 85-yard touchdown in the regional finals. “We call him lightning. He’s very physical,” said Carthage head coach Scott Surratt, appreciating Edwards’ talent. So, it’s only natural that the RB is turning heads as he’s received several big offers, but Texas and Texas A&M appear to be the two schools that, according to him, are “recruiting me hard.”

Well, both schools are trying their level best to recruit the 3rd best RB from the class of 2026. Interestingly, Edwards seems to have an inclination towards the Longhorns. The youngster has already made four unofficial visits to their facility and seems to be impressed by the Longhorns’ coaches and staff. However, he’s yet to make a final decision, but it seems he’ll be picking either of the Texas schools.

Why are big programs trying so hard to secure KJ Edwards?

Well, there’s no doubt that KJ Edwards is a top prospect from the 2026 class, given that he’s ranked 33rd nationally and 3rd in the running back position. However, there’s more to Edwards than just his rankings. Just last month, the Carthage junior put up a stellar performance in his team’s big round-two playoff win against the Krum.

Edwards picked up nearly 215 yards with four touchdowns! Well, if this wasn’t enough to blow your mind, this was his first game back coming back from an injury. “The past couple weeks, I’ve been dealing with an injury. I came back last week and I was just excited to be back. I put on that performance, but I give all the credit to my O-line. They did a good job blocking up front, and with me being a complete back, I had to protect the quarterback, catch the ball out in the space, and do my job,” said Edwards. Crediting his teammates and staying humble even after putting on such a great performance.

Furthermore, he’s already had quite impressive freshman and sophomore seasons. He ran for 1,706 yards and 24 rushing touchdowns in his sophomore year. Now he has become an even more lethal RB in his junior season, then add up his leadership and hard work, and you’ve got yourself a fantastic recruit. So, it’s a no-brainer that schools like Texas and Texas A&M are battling it out for the Carthage standout.