Texas added a major piece to its 2024 defense on Tuesday evening.

The Longhorns earned a commitment from former Alabama linebacker Kendrick Blackshire. He had numerous offers from across college football (including Ole Miss) after entering the portal, but will play for the Longhorns in 2024.

Blackshire shared the news of his commitment with On3’s Hayes Fawcett:

Blackshire is a Texas native. He attended Duncanville High School and was a 4-star prospect in the class of 2021. Blackshire was the No. 168 overall player and the No. 21 linebacker in the country for that cycle, per 247Sports Composite rankings.

Blackshire is a significant addition for the Longhorns’ defense in 2024. Last season, he recorded 16 tackles, 1 tackle for loss, 1 fumble recovery and 1 forced fumble. Blackshire also had a consistent role on special teams for the Crimson Tide.

Texas has now received 2 transfer commitments from ex-Alabama players this offseason. The Longhorns previously added former Tide receiver Isaiah Bond to their 2024 roster. Texas currently has a top-10 transfer class in the country for next season, per 247Sports Composite rankings.

Blackshire has 1 season of eligibility remaining.