Rising Senior DL With Next Level Talent

Texas is home to some of the most dominant high school football talent in the country, and the defensive line is no exception. As we shift our focus to the rising seniors in the 2026 class, several standout defensive linemen have proven they have the skill set to compete at the next level. These athletes had impactful junior seasons, showcasing their ability to disrupt offenses, stop the run, and pressure the quarterback. With size, strength, quickness, and relentless motors, they have drawn the attention of college programs nationwide. Here's a look at some of the top Texas defensive linemen who are poised for big senior campaigns and have what it takes to excel at the next level.    Morris is a name to watch in the 2026 class. At 6-foot-5 and 242 pounds, Morris possesses a long, athletic frame that gives him an edge both as a pass rusher and run stopper. He has an impressive first step and a quick burst off the line, allowing him to disrupt plays in the backfield. His combination of size, athleticism, and motor makes him a tough matchup for offensive linemen, and his ability to bend and use his length effectively sets him apart. After an impactful junior season, Morris is poised for a breakout senior year and has the tools to excel at the next level.     Phillips is a rising senior defensive lineman who brings physicality and relentless effort to every snap. A First-Team All-District 16-6A selection, Phillips dominates at the point of attack, using his strength and leverage to control blockers and disrupt plays. He plays with a high motor, never taking a rep off, and his ability to quickly diagnose plays allows him to flow to the ball with speed. Whether stuffing the run or pressuring the quarterback, Phillips consistently makes his presence felt. With his combination of toughness, technique, and hustle, he's a defensive force poised for a strong senior season and a future at the next level.     Ervin is an explosive athlete who has made a name for himself on both sides of the ball. At 6-foot-2, 225 pounds, Ervin possesses a quick first step and elite speed off the edge, making him a disruptive force as a pass rusher. His athleticism and motor allow him to close on ball carriers quickly, and his ability to bend around blockers makes him a tough assignment for offensive linemen. In addition to his defensive skills, Ervin is also a playmaker at tight end for Henderson, showcasing his versatility and natural athletic ability. With his skill set and production, he has drawn interest from college programs and is poised for a big senior season.     Davis-Wheatfall is a rising senior defensive lineman with the tools to be a difference-maker at the next level. With a long, athletic frame, he combines agility and quickness to shed blockers and make plays all over the field. His high motor and relentless pursuit set him apart, as he consistently chases down ball carriers and applies pressure in the backfield. Wheatfall's ability to move fluidly and react quickly to plays makes him a disruptive force on the defensive front. College programs should have their eyes on him—his skill set and work ethic make him a player with true next-level potential.

Texas is home to some of the most dominant high school football talent in the country, and the defensive line is no exception. As we shift our focus to the rising seniors in the 2026 class, several standout defensive linemen have proven they have the skill set to compete at the next level. These athletes had impactful junior seasons, showcasing their ability to disrupt offenses, stop the run, and pressure the quarterback. With size, strength, quickness, and relentless motors, they have drawn the attention of college programs nationwide. Here's a look at some of the top Texas defensive linemen who are poised for big senior campaigns and have what it takes to excel at the next level.