Football
Razorbacks strengthen Texas pipeline with elite OT Bryce Gilmore’s commitment
Arkansas football’s offensive line legacy grows stronger as four-star tackle Bryce Gilmore chooses the Razorbacks over regional rival Texas Tech
FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. — Sam Pittman’s reputation as an offensive line developer continues to pay dividends for Arkansas football, as four-star tackle Bryce Gilmore announced his commitment to the Razorbacks on Monday.
The Prosper, Texas, native ranks as the No. 186 overall prospect nationally and the No. 15 offensive tackle in the 2026 class.
The commitment represents more than just adding another blue-chip recruit to Arkansas’s 13th-ranked 2026 class.
It marks a significant win in the program’s ongoing recruiting battles with Texas Tech, particularly as both programs intensify their presence in the talent-rich Texas high school football landscape.
“Coach Mateos, Coach Pittman, and the culture made the difference,” Gilmore said during his commitment announcement. “The players really stood out too. Sometimes you visit places where the starters don’t want to spend time with recruits, but at Arkansas, it was different.”
The 6-foot-5, 300-pound tackle spent his official visit weekend in Fayetteville alongside Georgia Tech transfer Corey Robinson II, who served as his host.
The chemistry between the two was immediate, with Robinson providing authentic insights into the program’s development of offensive linemen.
Gilmore’s decision carries extra weight given the emerging recruiting rivalry between Arkansas and Texas Tech.
The Red Raiders, under coach Joey McGuire, have recently flexed their financial muscle through the Matador Club collective, which has helped them secure the nation’s second-ranked transfer portal class this offseason.
Arkansas defensive coordinator Travis Williams emphasized the significance of the commitment. “When you’re building a championship program, it starts in the trenches. Bryce brings the size, athleticism, and mentality we’re looking for.”
NFL scout Daniel Jeremiah, who evaluated Gilmore at recent camps, praised his potential.
“He’s got exceptional feet for his size and the frame to add good weight,” he said. “What stands out is his ability to redirect in pass protection – that’s rare for a young tackle.”
The Razorbacks’ success in landing Gilmore builds on their historical effectiveness in Texas recruiting. Since the Southwest Conference era, Arkansas has maintained strong ties to Texas high school football, with numerous standouts making the journey from the Lone Star State to Fayetteville.
Gilmore chose Arkansas over an impressive list of suitors, including Penn State, Ole Miss, Miami, and Florida State.
His commitment strengthens an already robust 2026 class that now features three four-star prospects from Texas.
Former Arkansas All-American offensive lineman Shawn Andrews liked Gilmore’s commitment.
“Coach Pittman’s track record with offensive linemen speaks for itself,” Andrews said. “When you combine that with the family atmosphere in Fayetteville, it’s a perfect fit for a player of Bryce’s caliber.”
The timing of Gilmore’s commitment, coming months before his planned announcement date, suggests the impact of his recent visit to campus.
“You just know when it feels right,” Gilmore said. “The combination of academic support, player development, and the family atmosphere made it clear Arkansas was home.”
Looking ahead, the Razorbacks’ coaching staff will continue their aggressive recruiting approach in Texas, with several other high-priority targets still in play.
The momentum from Gilmore’s commitment could prove crucial as Arkansas pursues additional blue-chip prospects, particularly four-star wide receiver Chase Campbell, another top target from the Lone Star State.
For now, the Razorbacks can celebrate winning a crucial recruiting battle and adding another cornerstone piece to their 2026 class.
