The Mustangs receive a major commitment in the 2027 recruiting class.
The SMU Mustangs have landed another four-star recruit this week, but rather than through the transfer portal, it's by way of the 2027 high school recruiting class.
Elite defensive line prospect Amari Vickerson from Cypress Ranch has committed to stay home with SMU, committing to The Hilltop over national powers such as Texas, Texas A&M, Florida State and Michigan.
The 6-4, 310-pounder is a four-star recruit in the 2027 high school class. He becomes the Mustangs' top defensive building block in the current junior class of high school prospects. Four-star quarterback Malachi Zeigler from Benton (LA) is SMU's only other commit, according to 247Sports.
“SMU has made me their top school and made me a priority because they want to build around me," Vickerson said, via Rivals. "SMU showed me how to compete and be successful without a big logo on your polo!”
Vickerson's commitment adds to a solid week of recruiting for SMU after bringing in former four-star wide receiver Jalen Hale. The Longview, TX native returns home after an injury-plagued career at Alabama.
Vickerson comes from a bloodline of NFL talent, with his father Kevin playing three seasons at Michigan State before spending eight years in the NFL.
According to Dave Campbell's Texas Football, Vickerson has the "ability to play multiple positions along the defensive line," and racked up over 25 offers from Division I programs.
"Most schools see me as a versatile piece," Vickerson said to DCTF in April. "I can line up at shade, 2-2i, end, 3-tech, 5-tech - wherever they need me, I'll get it done."
This season, Vickerson earned All-District honors in Texas' elite 6A competition with 50 total tackles, 6.0 sacks and 11 tackles for loss.
Earlier this week, Vickeron responded to a social media post about SMU coach Rhett Lashlee targeting a "blue-chip DT target."
"Beyond Blessed," Vickerson wrote.
Days later, DCTF was setting up his commitment stage to set the scene for his announcement.
"My dream since I was a kid," Vickerson said.
That dream now becomes a reality with his commitment to the Mustangs.