(BCSNN) — LaDamion Guyton, a Top 5 overall prospect in the 2027 recruiting class, announced his commitment to Texas Tech, choosing the Red Raiders over Georgia, Tennessee, and South Carolina. The five-star edge rusher from Benedictine Military School in Savannah, Georgia, is the highest-rated recruit in Texas Tech history and a transformative addition to head coach Joey McGuire’s program.

Guyton, listed at 6-foot-3 and 240 pounds, has drawn comparisons to NFL stars like Khalil Mack and Vic Beasley for his explosive first step and ability to bend around the edge. In two varsity seasons, he’s totaled 134 tackles, 16.5 sacks, and 33 tackles for loss. “When I was up there, it felt like home,” Guyton said. “I felt like I could focus on football, and that was the main thing for me. We’ve got a lot of good players coming in, and I think it could be something really special.”

Texas Tech’s recruiting momentum has surged in recent months, landing five-star offensive tackle Felix Ojo in July and now adding Guyton to its 2027 class. The Red Raiders have invested heavily in facilities and NIL infrastructure, reportedly spending over $25 million on their roster in 2025. Guyton is expected to sign a three-year NIL deal worth up to $3.5 million, underscoring the program’s aggressive approach to attracting elite talent.

The implications of Guyton’s commitment extend beyond Lubbock. His decision to spurn SEC powers like Georgia and Tennessee signals a shift in recruiting dynamics, where Big 12 programs with strong NIL backing can now compete for top-tier prospects. Texas Tech general manager James Blanchard has been vocal about the school’s willingness to “pay a premium” for elite players, and Guyton’s recruitment is a prime example.

For Guyton, the commitment offers a chance to be the face of a rising program. He’ll join fellow Benedictine teammate and quarterback Stephen Cannon, a 2026 Texas Tech commit, in what could become a cornerstone duo for the Red Raiders. “I just feel like I can start a great thing at the program,” Guyton said. “They have good coaches, good consistency, and a plan to help players get better every day.”

Texas Tech now holds the No. 20-ranked recruiting class for 2027, with more elite targets in play. While Guyton won’t sign until late 2026, his early pledge has already sent shockwaves through the recruiting world. As McGuire and his staff continue to build, Guyton’s commitment may mark the beginning of a new era in Red Raider football.