MESQUITE, Texas -- With his family's support, an equally talented teammate by his side and hundreds of people leaning on every word Friday morning, ESPN 300 linebacker Malik Jefferson verbally committed to Texas.
With the help of his older brothers serving as co-emcees, Jefferson, the No. 35 player in the ESPN 300, made his announcement, smiled and took a deep sigh of relief as the Poteet High School Auditorium erupted. Jefferson became the Longhorns' 22nd pledge of the 2015 class.
The 21st pledge, minutes before, was four-star athlete and high school teammate DeAndre McNeal.
Jefferson, a national Butkus Award winner, said he finalized his decision Thursday night after prayer and meditation. He said the decision came down to one word.
"Trust," Jefferson said. "Trust, off the bat."
The Butkus Award is given to the nation's top high school linebacker, and Jefferson has been a major contributor on the field since his sophomore year. He had 81 tackles -- 16 for losses -- and six sacks as a senior.
Jefferson added that he's excited about getting tutelage from Longhorns coach Charlie Strong, who has proved himself to be not only a motivator on the field but a solid recruiter in a short time.
"I want to become a boss," Jefferson said. "I want to become one of the best and I think Coach Strong can take me there. He's real, 24/7. You can't deny that."
Jefferson, a 6-foot-3, 220-pounder, will join McNeal, a 6-2, 200-pound, jack-of-all-trades player. McNeal lined up at quarterback, wide receiver, running back, outside linebacker, inside linebacker, safety and cornerback throughout the year. He also can punt if necessary.
"Trust" also was a word McNeal used in his decision.
"It's close to home and a great environment. That's something I've always wanted," McNeal said. "I know that Charlie Strong can make me into a better football player."
Jefferson and McNeal had top threes of Texas, Texas A&M and UCLA. The two join a strong Longhorns class that includes quarterback Zach Gentry, safety DeShon Elliott and offensive lineman Patrick Vahe, all ESPN 300 athletes, among others.