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Recruiting Timelines September 12, 2024 6 min read

The Texas High School Football Recruiting Timeline (Class of 2026 & 2027)

When can NCAA Division I and D2 coaches actually contact you? A comprehensive breakdown of contact periods, dead periods, and when to upload your junior year tape.

By Coach Marcus Vance • Former D1 Recruiting Coordinator & Carltine Contributor

### Understanding the Texas Football Recruiting Calendar

For Texas high school football recruits in the Class of 2026 and 2027, the recruiting process has accelerated significantly. Between early official visits, the transfer portal frenzy, and roster size caps, knowing **when** college coaching staffs evaluate high school film is essential.

1. Sophomore Year: Foundation & Benchmark Verification During sophomore year, NCAA Division I coaches cannot directly phone or text student-athletes. However, college coaches can send camp brochures, academic questionnaires, and evaluate film sent by high school head coaches. - **Key Focus:** Lock in your core GPA. A 3.5+ GPA opens up over 60 additional FCS and Division III opportunities regardless of height. - **Combine Metrics:** Get a verified laser 40-yard dash and pro agility (5-10-5) time during spring combine season.

2. June 15 Following Sophomore Year: The D2 Contact Window Opens NCAA Division II programs can begin sending direct recruiting correspondence, emails, and making phone calls on June 15 preceding your junior season.

3. August 1 of Junior Year: Division I Direct Contact For Division I FBS and FCS football, August 1 marks the official opening of direct digital communication (X direct messages, text messages, and recruiting calls). If your Carltine profile has verified Hudl tape and transcript GPA, this is the prime window coaches evaluate.

4. The Junior Season Tape: The Make-or-Break Film College coaches make 80% of their initial high school scholarship offer evaluations off of **Junior Year Varsity Film**. Waiting until senior year is one of the most common mistakes Texas recruits make.

Action Items for Recruits & Parents: 1. Complete your Carltine profile completeness checklist to 100%. 2. Ensure your parent/guardian email is verified. 3. Compare your 40-yard dash against Sun Belt, Southland, and Lone Star benchmarks.

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