The Ohio State Buckeyes and LSU Tigers are recruiting powerhouses, but even the best miss out sometimes. Case in point: four-star OL Drew Evers. He was widely expected to pick Ohio State or another top program, but surprised many by committing to the SMU Mustangs.
SMU Stuns Recruiting Giants Ohio State and LSU with Drew Evers’ Commitment
Top programs received some unexpected recruitment news on Thursday, June 26, when it was announced that 2026 Flower Mound (Texas) High School OL Evers had committed to SMU.
BREAKING: Four-Star OL Drew Evers has Committed to SMU, he tells me for @on3recruits
The 6’4 302 OL from Flower Mound, TX chose the Mustangs over Ohio State, Texas A&M, Penn State, & LSU
“214…I’m staying home. Let’s work #PonyUp”https://t.co/sTRY28LBbb pic.twitter.com/H44IUEsscK
— Hayes Fawcett (@Hayesfawcett3) June 26, 2025
“214 … I’m staying home,” Evers told On3’s Hayes Fawcett after his commitment. “Let’s work.”
Evers committed to SMU over a top-six list that included Ohio State, LSU, Penn State, Texas A&M, and Oklahoma. His decision surprised many, especially since Ohio State was considered the heavy favorite.
The On3’s Recruiting Prediction Machine gave the Buckeyes a 77.5% chance of landing him. Instead, Evers opted to stay close to home in Flower Mound, Texas, just outside Dallas, making SMU a logical and personal choice.
This is a big win for SMU and a notable miss for Ohio State, which has faced criticism in recent years for struggling to secure elite OL talent. Although the Buckeyes recently saw Donovan Jackson and Josh Simmons selected in the first round of the NFL Draft, missing out on Evers could reignite concerns about their recruiting consistency in the trenches.
LSU also took a hit with Evers’ decision, continuing a tough stretch on the recruiting trail. The Tigers recently lost out on QB Bryson Beaver, who committed to Oregon, and top-10 passer Bowe Bentley, who chose Oklahoma.
Evers is widely regarded as a top-tier prospect in the 2026 class. According to the On3 Industry Ranking, he’s the No. 222 overall player, No. 16 interior offensive lineman, and No. 30 recruit in Texas.
However, his athleticism and fluid movement make him a high-upside addition at the college level. Though his 6’4”, 285-pound frame has sparked debate over whether he fits better at tackle or guard, his versatility is seen as a strength.
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SMU’s ability to land Evers reflects its growing influence in recruiting circles. With a strong NIL infrastructure and rising on-field success under head coach Rhett Lashlee, the Mustangs are becoming a serious player for top in-state talent.
