5-Star DT Daylon Mack Names His Top 2: Which Team Is Best Fit?

Daylon Mack sent a shock wave through the recruiting spectrum Friday, ending a 14-month commitment to Texas A&M. The 5-star defensive tackle took another step forward Saturday, declaring LSU and TCU as his leaders:

Mack, a 6'1", 330-pound senior at Gladewater High School in Texas, is arguably the top uncommitted defender on the market. Friday brought an abrupt change to his recruitment process, which seemed to be a done deal throughout much of this cycle.

Rated fourth nationally among players at his position in 247Sports' composite rankings, Mack provides a highly productive interior presence. He tallied 241 tackles, including 89 tackles for loss, and 20 sacks during the past three seasons, per Gerry Hamilton of ESPN.com.

Mack also made an impact on offense in 2014, accounting for 260 rushing yards and 12 touchdowns.

The Aggies' major loss will eventually become another program's gain. Less than seven weeks shy of national signing day, it appears to be a two-team battle.

The Horned Frogs would love to double-up the despair of Texas A&M fans by bringing him on board.

Aggies head coach Kevin Sumlin and company missed out on a pair of prized in-state defensive prospects Friday morning, as Poteet High School stars  Malik Jefferson and DeAndre McNeal pledged to Texas. Both prospects were projected to sign with Texas A&M by a majority of expert predictions in 247Sports' Crystal Ball. 

Now it seems another in-state foe has fought its way into the discussion. Many expected Texas to enter the equation for Mack, but it's TCU that makes a big move up on his list.

The Horned Frogs remained in the mix for 5-star defensive end Myles Garrett last year throughout his recruitment, though he ultimately signed with Texas A&M and set an SEC freshman record for sacks this season. TCU will aim to seal the deal with Mack, who visited campus in October for an official visit. 

Head coach Gary Patterson presently holds the No. 30 class in 247Sports' national composite rankings. The group includes just two players rated higher than 3-star caliber. 

Joseph Broadnax and Jozie Milton are both big-bodied defensive tackles who've committed to TCU. The Horned Frogs have consistently assembled strong defensive attacks despite a lack of top-level recruits. 

With Mack entrenched as the centerpiece up front, TCU could take its stinginess to another level. He would certainly compete for substantial playing time as a true freshman and be given ample amounts of opportunities to shine as an underclassman.

LSU, on the other hand, implements a defensive group loaded with former standout recruits. The Tigers' current class includes 5-star cornerback Kevin Toliver II and should improve during the final stretch toward signing day as top targets determine their collegiate intentions.

Mack traveled to Baton Rouge earlier this season and is expected to return to campus next month for an official visit. Les Miles stockpiled talent along the defensive line in his last class but could use further reinforcements.

The Tigers hold just one commitment up front, though Isaiah Washington fills an edge role. Mack would fill a need inside, but he may need to bide his time as established players take reps ahead of him.

Mack would be yet another outstanding addition at LSU. However, he could become a program-changer at TCU.

The Horned Frogs nearly made the inaugural College Football Playoff and are attempting to translate that success onto the recruiting trail. Mack fits the bill as an elite in-state talent who can buck the trend by spurning Texas and Texas A&M in favor of the Horned Frogs.

We'll give a nod to the Big 12 Conference co-champions, though the remaining weeks of this recruiting cycle could provide a few more surprises. 

Recruit ratings courtesy of 247Sports.