SMU Football Defensive Target Is Blowing Up Fast

Case Benoit is turning himself into one of the more intriguing 2027 Texas high school football recruits to watch.

The Bastrop outside linebacker and defensive end is only beginning to hit the recruiting radar, but the signs are getting loud.

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After a junior season packed with disruption, Benoit added offers from Midwestern State and Texas Southern, while programs like Stephen F. Austin, Fordham, Colgate and Ivy League schools continue to monitor him.

The production explains the attention. Benoit totaled 41 tackles, seven tackles for loss, four sacks, three fumble recoveries, one forced fumble and 12 quarterback hurries as a junior.

That earned him 5A Division II District 11 Defensive Newcomer of the Year honors.

Now comes the fascinating part: he’s changing bodies and changing roles.

Benoit played more as a stand-up outside linebacker in 2025, but Bastrop’s new defensive staff has shifted him closer to the line, using him in 5-technique and 4i looks.

That means more hand fighting, more tackles in his chest and less space to react.

So Benoit attacked the weight room. Hard.

He added roughly 20 to 25 pounds this offseason, jumping to around 6-2 and 210 pounds. That added mass matters. Instead of getting washed by pullers or overwhelmed at the point of attack, he’s now strong enough to absorb contact and fight back.

That’s exactly what college coaches want to see.

Midwestern State was the first program to offer after area recruiter Tyler Preston saw the kind of defender offensive linemen hate dealing with.

Texas Southern followed after defensive line coach Matthew Passwaters watched Benoit respond to coaching during practice. After a few technique corrections, Benoit started winning reps, and the offer came soon after.

That part is important. Benoit didn’t just impress with raw traits. He showed he could listen, adjust and dominate.

For a still-developing defender, that’s gold.

His recruitment could keep climbing this summer with camp stops expected, including Trinity’s Mega Camp. With strong academics also helping him draw attention from high-level academic programs, Benoit’s options may expand quickly.

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He’s not a finished product yet, and that’s the scary part. Case Benoit is bigger, stronger, more versatile and already productive.

Texas recruiting circles should probably learn the name now.