Denton, Texas, February 5, 2026
The University of North Texas football program has added seven talented high school players from across Texas to its 2026 recruiting class, showcasing its commitment to local talent and community ties. This recruitment strategy reflects the competitive spirit and skills fostered in Texas high school football, ensuring a seamless transition for these athletes at the collegiate level. As Coach Neal Brown leads this foundational class, it emphasizes the importance of discipline, personal responsibility, and community engagement in shaping future leaders both on and off the field.
Denton, Texas –
Mean Green Secures Seven Top Texas High School Talents
Mean Green Secures Elite Texas Talent for 2026.
For high school athletes across Texas, including those in the Houston area, National Signing Day represents the culmination of years of hard work, discipline, and dedication. It’s a testament to their character and the opportunities that competitive sports provide, shaping young individuals into leaders on and off the field. This year, the University of North Texas (UNT) football program has made a definitive statement on National Signing Day 2026, welcoming seven exceptional high school prospects, all hailing from the rich football fields of Texas. This class underscores UNT’s commitment to fostering homegrown talent and building a program rooted in the very fabric of the Lone Star State’s athletic excellence, highlighting the immense depth of skill available within Texas prep sports and the profound community connections that fuel college football.
A Foundational Class for Coach Neal Brown
Under the leadership of Head Coach Neal Brown, the UNT football program officially announced the additions of seven high school players to its 2026 roster. This class is notable as all seven individuals are from the state of Texas, placing UNT among a select group of Football Bowl Subdivision (FBS) programs, including TCU, that have recruited their entire high school class from within the state.
The Mean Green’s approach prioritizes players who understand the unique competitive spirit and demands of Texas high school football. This not only builds a cohesive team but also strengthens the bond between the university and the communities that produce these athletes.
Meet the Newest Mean Green
The 2026 signing class brings a diverse set of skills and positions to the University of North Texas. Each player represents the commitment to discipline and personal responsibility cultivated in high school athletics. The seven prospects are:
- Cason Applewhite, a defensive lineman from Palestine, Texas.
- KC Ekwu, an offensive lineman from Sunnyvale, Texas.
- Grady Holmes, a defensive lineman from Rowlett, Texas.
- Lathon Latiolais, a wide receiver from Prosper, Texas.
- Adarion Nettles, a running back from Mansfield Summit High School in Arlington, Texas.
- Jerious Singletary, a tight end from Huntsville, Texas.
- Ziondre Williams, a quarterback from Anna, Texas.
Five of these seven future Mean Green players honed their skills in the competitive DFW metroplex high school football scene. This regional focus allows for continued local support and a seamless transition for athletes stepping up to the collegiate level.
The Statewide Impact of Texas Prep Sports
The strength of Texas high school football is undeniable, and universities across the state are actively investing in this talent pool. National Signing Day 2026 saw robust recruiting efforts from other Texas institutions as well. Abilene Christian University (ACU) Football announced a significant 2026 recruiting class, emphasizing their strategy of recruiting high-level high school football players from Texas.
Similarly, Tarleton State Football revealed a record 63 new Texans joining their program for 2026, including a three-star prospect from Lucas, Texas. Texas Southern University also signed 25 student-athletes during this period. Even institutions outside of Texas, such as Utah State Football, recognized the depth of talent, announcing a 2026 signing class that included a player from Dallas, Texas. This collective commitment to retaining Texas-based talent strengthens the statewide sports ecosystem and creates exciting in-state rivalries that captivate fans.
Building Character, Leadership, and Opportunity
Beyond statistics and rankings, the true value of high school sports lies in its ability to forge character, cultivate leadership skills, and open doors to future opportunities. These seven young men joining UNT are not just athletes; they are future leaders who have demonstrated perseverance and dedication throughout their high school careers. The transition from high school to a Division I program demands an even higher level of discipline and personal responsibility, preparing them for challenges both on and off the field.
The journey from Friday night lights to collegiate Saturdays is a path many Houston TX high school football players aspire to. These signings serve as an inspiring example of how hard work and commitment can lead to exceptional outcomes, reinforcing the vital role that local sports programs play in developing young people.
Community Engagement and Local Pride
When local athletes commit to in-state universities, it sparks immense pride within their communities. Schools, families, and local businesses rally around these young stars, recognizing their achievements as a reflection of collective support. This sense of shared identity translates into increased fan engagement for UNT football, attracting spectators who follow these players from their high school days to their collegiate careers. Local sponsorships often follow, seeing the value in aligning with programs that champion local heroes and embody positive community values.
The success of these Texas prep sports stars creates a ripple effect, motivating younger athletes in Houston and across the state to strive for their own greatness, understanding that their efforts can lead to similar opportunities. This cycle of inspiration and support is fundamental to the health and vibrancy of our high school and college athletic programs.
Looking Ahead with the Mean Green
The University of North Texas’s 2026 high school recruiting class, comprised entirely of Texas talent, lays a strong foundation for the future of the Mean Green football program. These seven athletes embody the spirit of competition, teamwork, and personal growth that defines Texas football.
HEREHouston.com encourages all our readers to celebrate the dedication of these young athletes and the coaches who guide them. Support your local Houston TX high school football teams and follow the journey of these promising college football prospects as they embark on their collegiate careers. Stay tuned to HEREHouston.com for more stories on Texas prep sports and the athletes who make them great.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How many high school prospects did UNT Football sign for 2026?
- The UNT football program signed seven high school prospects for 2026.
- Where are the UNT 2026 high school signees from?
- All seven high school signees for the UNT football program in 2026 are from the state of Texas.
- Who are the seven high school prospects signed by UNT Football for 2026?
- The seven high school prospects signed by UNT Football for 2026 are Cason Applewhite (DL, Palestine, TX), KC Ekwu (OL, Sunnyvale, TX), Grady Holmes (DL, Rowlett, TX), Lathon Latiolais (WR, Prosper, TX), Adarion Nettles (RB, Mansfield Summit High School in Arlington, TX), Jerious Singletary (TE, Huntsville, TX), and Ziondre Williams (QB, Anna, TX).
- Who is the head coach of the UNT football program?
- The head coach of the UNT football program is Neal Brown.
- Did other Texas universities sign high school players for 2026?
- Yes, Abilene Christian University Football signed a 2026 recruiting class, Tarleton State Football announced 63 new Texans for 2026, and Texas Southern University signed 25 student-athletes on National Signing Day.
Key Features of UNT’s 2026 High School Signing Class
| Feature | Details | Scope |
|---|---|---|
| Number of Signees | Seven high school prospects | University-level |
| Origin of Signees | All from the state of Texas | State-level |
| DFW Metroplex Representation | Five of the seven players are from the DFW metroplex | Regional-level |
| Head Coach | Neal Brown | University-level |
| Key Positions Added | Two defensive linemen, one offensive lineman, one wide receiver, one running back, one tight end, one quarterback | University-level |
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Author: STAFF HERE HOUSTON TX WRITER
The HOUSTON STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREHouston.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Houston, Harris County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo, Art Car Parade, and Chevron Houston Marathon. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Houston Partnership and Houston Area Urban League, plus leading businesses in energy and healthcare that power the local economy such as ExxonMobil, Schlumberger, and Houston Methodist. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAustinTX.com, HERECollegeStation.com, HEREDallas.com, and HERESanAntonio.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Texas's dynamic landscape.
