4-Star Recruit John Bonney Commits to Texas Longhorns

The best recruiting class in the Big 12 Conference is now even better, as the Texas Longhorns have added a commitment from 4-star safety John Bonney.

Angel Verdejo of the Houston Chronicle reported Bonney's commitment to UT Thursday.

According to Verdejo, the Houston native claimed more than 30 offers, while 247Sports identified a list of just over 20 suitors, including Auburn, Baylor, LSU, Ohio State, Oklahoma and UCLA.

Bonney told Verdejo that defensive backs coach Duane Akina and former Texas star and current NFL running back Earl Campbell were among the many driving forces behind his commitment: "The alumni there are so strong and I felt like I would get the best coaching, especially at my position in coach Akina. There were a lot people involved in this, all the way up to Earl Campbell. He’s a dear friend of my dad and he was an essential part of this decision. I really appreciate everything."

With so many offers, it was still a difficult decision for the Lamar High School product, as he admitted to Verdejo: "I was going a little bit back and forth, and made the initial decision before the season that I was going to pick Texas. Once it sets in, you kind of go and forth. But this week, I really had time to think on it and pray on it, and I feel real comfortable."

Bonney makes 24 commitments for the Longhorns, and he is currently the No. 3 prospect in their 2014 recruiting class, according to the 247Sports composite ratings. 

With Bonney, 3-star cornerback Jermaine Roberts and 3-star safety Jason Hall, UT now has three defensive backs in the 24-man class. Additionally, the Longhorns have a commitment from 4-star athlete Kevin Shorter, who could project as a cornerback or running back.

All four starting defensive backs for the Longhorns are upperclassmen. Junior Mykkele Thompson and senior Adrian Phillips are currently listed as UT's starting safeties, per the official Texas football website.