Top Texas Prospect : Class of 2027 DB Caleb Cruz

Written By Marc Henry @marchen44

Top Texas Prospect's mission is to "Shine The Light On Hidden Gems"—players who possess exceptional talent but may be flying under the radar or on the cusp of breaking out. Our goal is to provide these athletes with the exposure they deserve, highlighting their skills and potential to help them gain the recognition and opportunities they need to succeed. We are dedicated to giving these hidden gems the spotlight, ensuring their talents are seen and appreciated. For this article we spotlight one of the top cornerbacks in the 2027 class in Texas Caleb Cruz from Odessa Permian High School.

Caleb Cruz has been on a remarkable upward trajectory since his debut as a freshman for Permian last season. His performance on the field has quickly established him as a standout cornerback, earning him recognition and interest from college programs.

Cruz's skill set is well-rounded, making him a formidable presence in the secondary. His technical proficiency is evident in his ability to maintain physicality at the line of scrimmage, effectively disrupting receivers' routes from the outset. This physical style of play, combined with his smooth transition into a backpedal, allows him to stay in tight coverage and adjust to receivers' movements seamlessly.

Speed and footwork are critical attributes for any cornerback, and Cruz excels in both areas. His quick recovery time enables him to close down throwing windows rapidly, minimizing the opportunities for opposing quarterbacks to connect with their targets. This blend of speed and agility is complemented by his keen football IQ, allowing him to anticipate plays and position himself to make plays on the football.

During the 2023 season, Cruz registered an impressive 32 tackles and 14 pass breakups. His impact was particularly notable during Permian's playoff run, where he allowed zero catches in both of their playoff games. This level of performance under pressure speaks volumes about his poise and reliability on the field.

The attention Cruz has garnered culminated in an offer from the University of Texas-El Paso this offseason. As he prepares for his sophomore season in 2024, Cruz is poised to continue his development and he is establishing himself as a Top Texas Prospect. He will be one to watch closely, as his combination of technical skill, physicality, and football intelligence makes him a standout player with a bright future ahead.