A closer look at some of the top Houston Cougars signees in the 2025 recruiting class. 

Class Grade: B-

Houston quietly impressed on the 2025 recruiting trail, climbing past Texas Tech, Oklahoma State, and Utah to finish No. 8 in the conference rankings—an impressive leap from last year's 13th-place finish. While the majority of the class comes from Texas, the Cougars also tapped into their Louisiana connections, particularly on defense. A Top 50 national finish keeps the program trending in the right direction.

Three Key Additions

Who were the highest-rated signees or prospects who might come in and make a significant impact?

QB Austin Carlisle (5'11, 185) - Fort Bend Ridge Point: Carlisle thrives when the play breaks down, excelling at throwing on the move without sacrificing accuracy. His leadership and relentless competitive drive set him apart, and his aggressive style keeps fans on the edge of their seats. He's the player you can count on when the stakes are high.

OL Demetris Dean II (6'4, 265) - Jasper: Dean imposes his will in the run game, using raw power to bulldoze defenders at the line of scrimmage. The 247Sports four-star talent boasts the ideal frame and tenacity that coaches covet. His versatility stands out—projecting as a tackle with the potential to slide inside if needed at the next level.

DL Travis Buhake (6'2, 255) - Mansfield Summit: Buhake, the highest-rated commit in the class according to 247Sports, is an intriguing defender with impressive athleticism. He's a disruptive force in the heart of the defense, using his strength to overpower linemen significantly heavier than him. A standout athlete, he claimed third place in the shot put at the UIL state meet.

Hometown Hero

What prospect was a fan favorite or a local hero who starred near the campus?

DT Carmello Brooks (6'3, 275) - Katy Paetow: Brooks has made a significant leap from his junior to senior season, unveiling new pass-rush moves and a rare interior explosiveness. Known for his strength and athleticism as a defensive tackle, he's now pairing those natural abilities with refined technique and a lightning-quick first step.

Super Sleeper

We pick one prospect on the commit list and explain how he might outplay his ranking in college.

OL Sadrick "Sean" Terrell (6'5, 300) - Klein Oak: The former Texas State commit flipped to Houston after receiving an offer from the Cougars ahead of his senior season. Big and powerful, Terrell operates as a swing tackle, seamlessly moving between the left and right sides. He plays through the whistle with a mean streak, and his size and upside point to a promising developmental future.