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On Sunday morning, the Texas Longhorns’ 2021 class added yet another member, as Arlington Martin outside linebacker Morice Blackwell announced his commitment to Tom Herman’s program.
Thanks to God for the talent he has blessed me with and all the University’s that extended and offer to me. I’m blessed to have many options but after a lot of prayer you have decided to commit to The University of Texas Austin @Martin_Football @CoachHutzler @CoachTomHerman pic.twitter.com/6j1MDLwHQz
— 8 T E E N (@Mor_iceB) May 10, 2020
A three-star talent with 14 offers to his name thus far, Blackwell earned his Texas on Feb. 1, but the interest in his talents has only grown since then, with Utah, Georgia, and Arkansas among the others to recently extend invitations. In the days before adding his Texas offer, Blackwell also earned offers from Alabama, Notre Dame, and Oklahoma State.
However, prior to his pledge to Texas, Blackwell’s only Crystal Ball projection favored Baylor.
As is spring offers indicate, Blackwell is quite clearly a rising talent, and his stats support that sentiment — as a junior, Blackwell amassed 128 tackles, 13 tackles for loss, two sacks, two interceptions, three pass breakups, and four forced fumbles.
Now the third addition to Texas’ 2021 class in as many weeks and pledge No. 9 overall, Blackwell is ranked as the nation’s No. 32 outside linebacker and as the No. 67 player in Texas, per the 247Sports Composite. His commitment lifts Herman’s 2021 class to No. 12 nationally and No. 1 in the Big 12.
Quick Takeaways:
By: Daniel Seahorn
Blackwell’s tape was a really fun watch and it solidified in my mind that he is criminally underrated by the networks. Blackwell checks in at 6’1, 196 pounds and possesses a long, athletic frame that will allow him to fill out as he continues to grow and develop. He doesn’t fit the bill physically of your traditional linebacker, but he is in the mold of the modern day off the ball linebacker that has become prevalent in today’s game. Blackwell can run sideline to sideline and shows comfort when it comes to flipping his hips and getting into his drops down the field in coverage. And don’t you get it twisted when it comes to him being a little light in the britches. Blackwell consistently punches above his weight class and absolutely brings the funk when he arrives at the ball carrier. Blackwell shows he has very good striking power and is able to consistently knock or drive back ball carriers. You better make sure you have your chin strap buckled when you come around this kid, because he leaves no doubt when he arrives to the party.
Blackwell has been a very productive player over the past two seasons (240 tackles, 23 TFLs, 4 sacks) and has a ton of ball production on tape both on defense and special teams. This kid makes the most of chances when he gets around the ball and he is always looking to turn the ball over. Blackwell has been incredibly consistent and productive over the past two seasons for Arlington Martin, which again makes me wonder how he is ranked how is currently. This kid is going to fill out accordingly while maintaining his athleticism and that will lead to a very happy coaching staff in Austin.