Speedy linebacker Justin Horne seeks new horizons, bringing elite athleticism and special teams prowess. His move opens doors for programs valuing developmental upside.
Texas Tech's defensive depth takes another offseason hit as linebacker Justin Horne has officially announced his intention to enter the transfer portal, signaling a fresh chapter in his college career and adding another intriguing name to the Red Raiders' defensive departures.
Horne arrived in Lubbock as part of the 2023 class, committing to Texas Tech Red Raiders on Dec. 19, 2022.
The New Orleans native was a three-star prospect rated 87 by 247Sports, known for his length, athleticism, and long-term developmental upside at linebacker. At 6-3, he projected as a modern second-level defender built to run, cover, and impact special teams early.
That projection quickly became reality.
As a redshirt freshman in 2024, Horne appeared in 10 games, carving out a role as a reserve linebacker and core special teams contributor. His season ended early after a knee injury against Colorado sidelined him for the final two regular-season games and the AutoZone Liberty Bowl, but not before he logged his first career sack against North Texas, part of his first two collegiate tackles.
While his defensive snaps were limited, his special teams workload was not.
Pro Football Focus credited Horne with 169 special teams snaps, the fifth-most on the team. He was a regular on kickoff return, kickoff coverage, field-goal block, and punt return units, making him one of Tech's most trusted depth pieces in the game's hidden phases.
In 2025, his on-field opportunities shrank, as he appeared in just nine total snaps, all coming in Week 6.
Horne's pedigree extends well beyond his college stat line. At John Curtis Christian School outside New Orleans, he developed into one of Louisiana's top linebacker prospects.
As a senior in 2022, he led the team to a Division I state championship while piling up 144 tackles, 17 tackles for loss, six sacks, five quarterback hurries, and three pass breakups. Those numbers earned him District 9-5A Defensive MVP and first-team honors. He was a two-year defensive starter and previously posted 70 tackles as a junior.
What truly separates Horne, though, is his elite athletic profile.
A standout track athlete, he was the Class 5A state champion in the 110-meter hurdles and one of the fastest hurdlers in the country. That speed shows up in his burst, range, and ability to close space—traits that translate directly to linebacker play and special teams impact.
Now entering the portal, Horne offers programs a long developmental runway.
His blend of speed, length, and versatility makes him an appealing option for teams seeking immediate special teams value with the upside to grow into a defensive contributor.
For Texas Tech, it's another reminder of the churn of the modern era. For Horne, it’s a chance to turn raw tools into his best football yet.