On Sunday, highly sought-after defensive lineman Justice Finkley announced the final three schools left in his recruitment.
The 6-foot-2, 255-pound playmaker is rated the No. 18 defensive lineman in the 2022 recruiting class according to 247Sports. Within the state of Alabama, the four-star prospect is No. 6.
The Longhorns extended an offer to Finkley on March 1 and Steve Sarkisian and his staff were able to get him to Austin for an official visit on June 25. Finkley has also taken official visits to Colorado and Michigan throughout the month of June, while sprinkling in an unofficial visit to Alabama as well.
Finkley has narrowed his list down to Texas, Alabama and Colorado. Michigan was once considered the favorite, but the Wolverines did not make the cut.
In 2020, Finkley recorded 82 tackles, 10 tackles for loss, four sacks and one forced fumble for Hewitt-Trussville High School. Outside of the final four programs mentioned, Finkley brought in offers from numerous Power Five programs such as Oregon, USC, Florida, Georgia and Penn State.
On June 6, 247Sports released a scouting report for Finkley.
Brawny rocked up compact frame, Finkley has a thick lower half that can generate force. Powerful leverage rusher in a 3-4 scheme at the high school level. Also shifts down to play defensive tackle at times. Excellent crossing the face of offensive lineman and getting an inside rush. Good chase athleticism and lateral movement skills. Gets underneath opponents and can forklift with great leverage. Play strength and physicality upon contact standout with Finkley. Can move down to the interior shades on the defensive line at the next level depending on physical development.
It’s unclear when Finkley will announce his commitment, but if Texas can make up ground, he would certainly be a welcomed addition to their 2022 class.