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BREAKING: 2026 Pearland LB Credit commits to Kansas
Three-star linebacker Joseph Credit, a standout from Pearland High School, has narrowed down his college choices and made his commitment. After taking official visits and weighing his options, the 6’0", 205-pound defender has committed to the Kansas Jayhawks, choosing them over Arizona State, UCLA, and several others.
For Credit, the Jayhawks’ consistency throughout his recruitment was the deciding factor.
“From the first day after they offered me at their camp last June, they never stopped showing interest,” said Credit. “Coach Leipold and the whole coaching staff reached out every day and showed me love. That really stuck with me. You can see what they’re building in the 2026 class—the guys they’re targeting and the commits they already have. It’s something I wanted to be a part of.”
Credit took his official visit to Kansas in early April, and the trip further solidified his decision beyond the strong relationships he’d built.
“When I visited, I got to see the new facilities and the stadium renovations,” he added. “Seeing the future of the program and the upgrades really got me excited. It made me feel like this is the place I want to play.”
With his decision made, Credit becomes the third Pearland defender to commit to a college program. Now locked in ahead of his senior season, he’s turning his focus to helping the Oilers make a deep run in 2025.
“I feel like our 2026 class is one of the best to ever come out of Pearland,” he said. “We’ve set a great example for the younger players, and I think we’re ready for a big season. I believe we can go undefeated in the regular season and make a deep playoff run.”
Although the recruiting process is now behind him, Credit had some advice for younger athletes navigating their own journeys.
“It was overwhelming at times—taking constant calls from coaches and trying to narrow down my list,” he said. “Having a support system was huge. My dad, my mom, and my trainer Donnie Baggs really helped guide me. My biggest advice to young recruits is to take things step by step. Don’t overthink it or try to do too much. Just stay grounded, and it’ll help you manage the chaos.”
COWBOY UP: Pearland’s Stewart talks commitment to Oklahoma State; senior year
One of the top defensive ends in the Class of 2026, Pearland's Jaylen Stewart made headlines in February when he locked in his commitment to Oklahoma State.
The 6-foot-3, 225-pound edge rusher had a host of Power 5 suitors—USC, Auburn, Baylor, Arizona State, Houston, and more—but ultimately chose to ride with the Cowboys.
“This past season I took a step in the right direction, but I know I can do better—and I will,” Stewart said. “As a team, we took a huge leap. This Pearland program is something special.”
And Stewart is a big reason why.
In 2024, the junior exploded for 52 tackles and 10 sacks, earning 1st Team All-District honors. His blend of speed, power, and disruptive energy quickly made him one of the most sought-after defensive ends in Texas.
So why Oklahoma State?
“To put it simple—it was the coaches,” Stewart said. “Coach Os and Coach Walker have been checking in not just on me, but my whole family. That means something. Plus, they send guys at my position to the league all the time.”
As the defensive end position continues to evolve, Stewart models his game after one of the NFL’s elite playmakers: Micah Parsons.
“If there’s one player I model my game after, it’s young Micah Parsons—just speed and destruction,” he said. “What sets me apart is my get-off and the ability to play out of position. I want to be everywhere.”
With his recruitment out of the way, Stewart is locked in on his offseason grind.
“This offseason I’ve been working on power moves and lateral quickness,” Stewart said. “Last season, I relied a lot on athleticism and handwork. Now, with new power moves in my bag, I’m ready to take that next step and thrive at the college level.”
Big goals. Bigger motor. And now, a Big 12 future.