One of North Carolina’s premier high school football talents is heading to the Lone Star State. On Friday night, Hough High School standout Samari Matthews, one of the nation’s top-ranked cornerbacks, announced his commitment to the University of Texas, choosing the Longhorns over other powerhouse programs like South Carolina, Miami, and Florida State.
Matthews, who is widely regarded as the top cornerback prospect in North Carolina and ranked among the Top 100 recruits nationally, made his decision public during a special live-streamed commitment ceremony held at Hough High’s gymnasium. The event drew a large, enthusiastic crowd of students, teammates, coaches, and family members—all there to support the local star as he took the next step in his football journey.
Standing at the podium with cameras rolling, Matthews soaked in the moment. Flanked by his family, he spoke from the heart about the importance of having his loved ones in attendance for such a pivotal decision in his life.
“It feels even better knowing my loved ones are in the stands,” Matthews said during the announcement. “Without them, I really wouldn’t be where I’m at now. My teammates who were just screaming my name—the village I have around me just makes everything better, so I’m grateful.”
For Matthews, this moment was the culmination of years of hard work and dedication on the football field. Known for his lockdown coverage skills, blazing speed, and sharp football IQ, Matthews has drawn interest from major college programs across the country. His recruitment was closely followed by national analysts and local fans alike, with many speculating where the four-star recruit would land. In the end, Texas won the battle for his services.
The decision gives the Longhorns a huge addition to their 2026 recruiting class. Matthews is expected to bring immediate impact potential to the Texas secondary when he arrives in Austin. His combination of size, agility, and ball skills makes him a prototypical modern cornerback—capable of shutting down top receivers in man-to-man coverage or playing a key role in zone schemes. Texas head coach Steve Sarkisian and his staff have been aggressive in building one of the top recruiting classes in the nation, and Matthews’ commitment is yet another major win for their defensive plans.
Matthews’ path to this moment has been marked by steady growth and determination. At Hough High, he has consistently been a standout player on one of the state’s most competitive teams, often drawing the assignment of guarding the opposing team’s best receiver. His performances under the Friday night lights have not only earned him accolades but also respect from coaches and peers.
Now, as he prepares to close out his high school career and begin his transition to college football, Matthews remains focused on staying grounded and grateful. His commitment to Texas is a major step forward, but he’s quick to acknowledge the support system that helped get him here.
“This isn’t just about me,” Matthews said. “It’s about everyone who’s believed in me and pushed me to be better every day.”
With his decision made, Matthews can now shift his attention to finishing his senior season strong, knowing that his next chapter awaits in Austin. For Texas fans, the future just got a little brighter with Samari Matthews on board.