Texas picks up huge commitment from top national WR Devin Duvernay
Texas offense under new offensive coordinator Sterlin Gilbert is based largely on speed. Speed in terms of tempo at which plays are run, and speed in the playmakers who can get upfield in a hurry.
On Wednesday, the Longhorns picked up a commitment from a player who could help jump-start Gilbert's offense, when wide receiver Devin Duvernay ended a wild recruitment by committing to Texas.
Duvernay, out of Sachse, is one of the nation's fastest recruits, having clocked a 10.27 in the 100 meter dash at the UIL State Track Meet as a senior to claim gold. Duvernay will now bring that speed to the University of Texas football field, where he could be an immediate contributor at the receiver position.
The 5-11, 193-pound Duvernay had originally committed to Baylor as part of the Bears' 2016 recruiting class but decided to explore other options after a sexual assault scandal surrounding the Baylor program and the subsequent firing of head coach Art Briles. It was later discovered that Duvernay's National Letter of Intent was not properly submitted by Baylor, making him immediately open to other programs.
Duvernay was initially interested in Texas, TCU and Oklahoma before trimming his list down to the Longhorns and Horned Frogs. He visited Texas on June 11 in a trip that sources described as very productive. He followed that visit up with one to TCU before putting an end to his recruitment on Wednesday morning with a commitment to Texas.
In Duvernay, the Longhorns gain the pledge of an Under Armour All-American who should compete for immediate playing time as a slot receiver and in the return game. Duvernay adds to an already impressive 2016 class for Texas that ranks No. 12 nationally after his addition (up from No. 13). Duvernay is the nation's No. 8-ranked wide receiver in the 2016 class and the 52nd-ranked prospect regardless of position.
Duvernay's twin brother, Donovan Duvernay, is one of seven prospects who signed with Baylor in February but have requested to be released from their letters of intent. As of Wednesday morning, they have yet to be released.