Texas high school football consistently showcases some of the best tight end talent in the nation, and the Class of 2026 is no different.

Featuring a range of athletes from dynamic playmakers to robust downhill runners, these five exceptional tight ends have excelled in their performances and are garnering interest from prominent college programs.

This article provides an in-depth analysis of the top five tight ends in Texas for 2026, detailing their statistics, scouting assessments, recruitment status, and highlights from their junior year.

Top Five 2026 Texas High School Football Tight Ends

Ryder Mix, TE, Lone Star, 6-4 / 220

Ryder Mix, TE, Lone Star High School, SI.com

Ryder Mix is a standout tight end from Frisco (TX) Lone Star High School, known for his versatility, athleticism, and strong blocking abilities. Standing at 6-foot-4 and weighing 225 pounds, Mix has garnered significant attention from college football programs nationwide.

As of June 15, 2024, Mix has verbally committed to the University of Oklahoma. Prior to this commitment, he received 37 offers from numerous prestigious programs, including Texas A&M, Wisconsin, Kansas State, Oklahoma State, TCU, Oregon, Ole Miss, and Penn State.

Mix is recognized for his versatility on the field, capable of lining up as a traditional in-line tight end, in the flex position, or as an H-back. His athleticism and physicality make him a valuable asset in both the passing and running games. Recruiting analysts have rated him with an 87.87 composite score, reflecting his standing as a top prospect in the 2026 class.

Ryder Mix’s combination of size, skill, and versatility has positioned him as a highly sought-after recruit. His commitment to Oklahoma marks a significant addition to their future roster, and his continued development at Lone Star High School will be closely watched by those following high school football talent.

Zachery Turner, TE Duncanville, 6-2 / 215

Zachery Turner, TE Duncanville High School, 247sports.com

Zachery Turner is a prominent tight end and wide receiver from Duncanville High School in Texas, recognized for his exceptional athleticism and versatility on the football field. Standing at 6-foot-3 and weighing 215 pounds, Turner has established himself as a key player for the Duncanville Panthers.

As a member of the Class of 2026, Turner has attracted attention from numerous collegiate programs. He has received offers from several Division I schools, including Arizona State, Baylor, Florida State, Georgia Tech, Houston, LSU, Miami, Michigan, Missouri, Nebraska, Oklahoma, Ole Miss, SMU, Syracuse, Tennessee, Texas, and Texas A&M. These offers reflect his potential and the high regard in which he is held by college recruiters.

Turner is noted for his hybrid role as both a tight end and wide receiver, demonstrating versatility that adds depth to his team’s offensive strategies. In addition to his football prowess, he is also recognized for his basketball skills, indicating a well-rounded athletic profile that enhances his on-field performance.

Braden Bach, TE, Argyle, 6-5 / 230

Braden Bach, TE, Argyle

After a terrific junior year season, Braden broke onto the recruiting scene this year. Braden is a promising tight end from Argyle High School in Texas, standing at 6-foot-5 and weighing 230 pounds. As a member of the Class of 2026, Bach has demonstrated versatility and athleticism on the field, contributing to his team’s offensive and defensive plays.

Evaluators have noted Bach’s potential, with an overall rating of 82%. His combination of size, strength, and agility makes him a valuable asset on both offense and defense.

Bach has attracted attention from several collegiate programs. As of March 2025, he has received offers from schools such as Georgia Tech, Kansas State, Louisiana, Memphis, North Texas, Rice, San Diego State, Southern Miss, Tulane, Tulsa, UNLV, and UTEP.

Jaivion Martin, TE, Pflugerville, 6-3 / 250

Jaivion “Scoop” Martin is a standout tight end from Pflugerville High School in Texas, recognized for his impressive size and versatility on the football field. Standing at 6-foot-4 and weighing approximately 245 to 250 pounds, Martin has established himself as a formidable presence in both offensive and defensive positions.

Martin’s versatility is a significant asset; while primarily recognized as a tight end, he has demonstrated proficiency on the defensive line. Texas Tech, for instance, has offered him as an athlete, acknowledging his potential contributions on both sides of the ball. His ability to adapt and excel in multiple positions makes him a valuable prospect for collegiate programs seeking dynamic players.

Jaivion Martin’s combination of size, athleticism, and versatility positions him as a highly sought-after recruit in the Class of 2026. His continued development at Pflugerville High School will be closely monitored by college programs and football enthusiasts alike.

Benny Okwura, TE, St. Thomas, 6-3 / 210

Benedict “Benny” Okwura is a tight end from St. Thomas High School in Houston, Texas, standing at 6-foot-4 and weighing 210 pounds. As a member of the Class of 2026, Okwura has demonstrated versatility and athleticism on the field, contributing to his team’s offensive plays.

As of March 2025, Okwura has received scholarship offers from several collegiate programs, including Arkansas State, Sam Houston State, San Diego State, Texas Southern, Texas State, and UTEP. These offers reflect his potential and the interest he has garnered from multiple football programs.

Benny Okwura’s combination of size, skill, and versatility positions him as a notable prospect in high school football. His continued development at St. Thomas High School will be closely monitored by college recruiters and football enthusiasts.

The Class of 2026 Texas high school football recruits exemplifies the state’s rich tradition of producing elite athletic talent. From dynamic quarterbacks like Keisean Henderson to versatile athletes such as Tradarian Ball, these young prospects are poised to make significant impacts at the collegiate level. As their recruitment journeys unfold, fans and programs alike eagerly anticipate the contributions these student-athletes will bring to the future of Texas football.