Texas Tech just pulled in a big commitment on the recruiting trail, and it comes at a moment when the program really needed some good news. Hunter Haug, a four-star athlete ranked fourth nationally at his position, announced his pledge to the Red Raiders on Tuesday, choosing them over TCU, Arkansas, and Oklahoma State.
The timing is significant. Texas Tech recently lost out on quarterback Brendan Sorsby, and there’s growing concern that freshman Will Hammond won’t be ready to start the season. While Haug isn’t a quarterback — he’s expected to play in the secondary — his commitment gives the program a morale boost and strengthens a defense that could be asked to carry the load early.
Haug, who stands 6-foot-1 and 190 pounds, took his official visit to Lubbock just before making his decision. According to Sam Spiegelman of Rivals, the Texas native was blown away by the culture and direction of the program under head coach Joey McGuire.
“They have been very consistent in communicating. They are coming off a strong year winning the Big 12 and look like they are building something special. They say I fit that,” Haug told Rivals. “I got to meet with Coach McGuire and James Blanchard one-on-one, and see the team and envision myself out there. I really enjoyed my time there, and it feels like a good fit.”
Haug is not just a top-100 recruit nationally — he’s the 112th-ranked prospect in the Class of 2027 — but he brings versatility that Texas Tech values. While listed as an athlete, he connected well with the secondary coaches during his visit and is expected to play defensive back.
A bond built over FaceTime and visits
Haug said the relationship with Texas Tech’s coaching staff was the deciding factor. The Red Raiders stayed in touch constantly, using FaceTime calls to build rapport.
“I love the coaches there. They’ve been very good at staying in touch with me. They are always checking in on FaceTime and I love Lubbock after being there a few times,” he said. “I’ve been up there and it definitely seems like a true college town.”
His commitment pushed Texas Tech’s 2027 recruiting class to No. 8 nationally and No. 1 in the Big 12, according to Rivals rankings. That’s a strong statement for McGuire’s program, especially in a conference that’s seeing increased competition from Utah, Oklahoma State, and Arizona.
Why this matters for the Red Raiders
Texas Tech is coming off a Big 12 title and has momentum, but the quarterback situation remains unsettled. The team has not confirmed whether Hammond or a transfer will be under center for the opener. Landing a player like Haug — who could contribute early in the secondary — gives the staff more flexibility as they sort out the offense.
For Haug, it’s about fit and trajectory. He said the team’s recent success and stability made the decision easy.
“I’m having a great time back out here in Lubbock. Sitting in the position meetings was awesome. I’m loving this feel at Tech. I’m definitely feeling the excitement behind the team here. For me, it’s how established they are as a program and how they check all my boxes,” he said.
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