“The Marksman Has Landed”: Texas Tech Nabs 2026 Edge Rusher Demarcus Marks in a Massive Recruiting Win
LUBBOCK, TX — The Red Raiders just reloaded.
In what may go down as one of the most under-the-radar coups of the 2026 recruiting cycle, Texas Tech has officially locked in Houston Westfield’s explosive edge rusher Demarcus Marks — and the Big 12 better take notice.
The 6-foot-4, 215-pound rising star made his commitment shortly after completing his official visit to Lubbock, and the decision sent a jolt of electricity through the Red Raider fanbase. His trip? Eye-opening. His impression? Lasting. And his message? Clear.
“It was fun and very eventful,” Marks said with a grin. “I enjoyed myself and can’t wait to go back. The pool party with the coaches was my favorite part — it felt like family right away.”
A Decision Made With Clarity, Not Chaos
Unlike many recruits swept up in a media frenzy or stuck in indecision limbo, Marks knew what he wanted — and saw it in Lubbock. Despite originally scheduling a visit to Utah later this month, he slammed that door shut, choosing to plant his flag in Raiderland.
Why?
“Texas Tech offers it all,” Marks explained. “Elite development, genuine relationships, good people, and a culture that supports players on and off the field. It’s a place where I can thrive — not just as a player, but as a man.”
Silent Assassin on the Edge
Though currently unrated by major recruiting services like 247Sports, Marks’ numbers speak volumes. In his most recent season at Houston Westfield, he racked up:
- 27 total tackles
- 8 tackles for loss
- 4 sacks
- 8 quarterback hurries
- 1 forced fumble
- 1 fumble recovery
Still flying under the radar, Marks may just be the sleeper gem of Texas Tech’s class — the kind of player who becomes an unexpected nightmare for Big 12 quarterbacks down the line.
And when asked to describe his game?
“I lead by example. My team will tell you — I don’t talk a lot, I let my game do the talking,” he said. “I bring energy, leadership, and positivity. You won’t catch me complaining. I’m about action, not noise.”
This is the kind of mentality that championship defenses are built on — grounded, focused, and relentless.
A Perfect Fit: Marks, Coach C.J. Ah You & the Red Raider Brotherhood
Marks’ commitment didn’t come out of nowhere. Over the course of the weekend, he built strong bonds with Texas Tech’s coaching staff — especially with outside linebackers coach C.J. Ah You, a respected developer of edge talent.
His host for the visit, redshirt freshman Eddy Smith, showed him what it meant to be part of the brotherhood.
“What stood out the most? Honesty,” Marks said. “There was no gray area with these coaches. They’re real with their players. It’s a welcoming environment, but it’s also a place that expects excellence.”
That blend — of trust, toughness, and togetherness — may be the secret sauce Texas Tech is cooking with.
Building a Wall: Texas Tech’s 2026 Class Is Quietly Taking Shape
With Marks’ pledge, Texas Tech now boasts 12 hard-nosed commitments for the Class of 2026, including:
- ⭐ QB Stephen Cannon
- ️ OLs Jacob Crow & Jerald Mays
- EDGE Tieson Ejiawoko
- DLs Ayden Johnson & Krush Johnson
- ️ LB Cord Nolan
- DBs Aaron Bradshaw, Noah Lewis, Luke Bell, & Maddox Quiller
Currently ranked 35th in the nation and fifth in the Big 12, the Red Raiders are ahead of bluebloods like Baylor and TCU and hot on the heels of Oklahoma State, Iowa State, and surprise risers like Kansas.
After signing the No. 48 high school class and the No. 2 transfer class in 2025, Texas Tech now holds the No. 22 overall national ranking — and with Marks in the fold, that number may keep climbing.
What This Means for Tech
In the cutthroat world of modern college football recruiting — where programs poach, flip, and battle over every inch — Texas Tech just sent a clear message: We’re not waiting our turn. We’re taking it.
Demarcus Marks isn’t just another commit. He’s a symbol of a new wave — a relentless edge with a relentless mindset.
And if the rest of the country isn’t paying attention yet?
They will be soon.
