Saturday's Under the Lights camp was a productive venture for the Texas Longhorns, with a number of top prospects from both the 2017 and 2018 classes making their way to Austin for the event.
Perhaps the most recognizable name for recruiting fans was that of five-star linebacker Baron Browning. The Kennedale product didn't work out at the camp, but did come in early and got to spend quite a bit of time with the Texas coaching staff and current team members.
During the camp itself, Browning was seen mingling with current Longhorn linebacker Cameron Townsend, who gave him some insights on the school and the UT defense.
"He was just telling me a little about the university a little bit, the position he plays and how you have to learn all of them (LB positions) and coach (Brian Jean-Mary)," Browning said.
Texas quarterback commitment Sam Ehlinger already knew Browning before the event. The two played on the same team at The Opening earlier this summer and they hung out quite a bit on Saturday, both before the camp and while the actual camp was taking place.
"We just joke around, hang out. We crack jokes," Browning said. "We talk about UT every now and then. Down on the field he was asking me if I was going to come here. Small talk, really. Just joking around. I give him an answer I know that will make him mad, or just something dumb."
One of the elements of the visit that most impressed Browning was the campus itself. The time spent with coaches and players is always a plus, but Browning said he also liked what he saw of the UT athletes' living facilities.
"I was getting a tour around campus. I went to see he dorms," Browning said. "I think it’s pretty cool you get to have your own dorm with your own restroom, and if you don’t want to move out, you can stay in the dorm for your three to four years. I think that’s pretty unique, you know? Stay on campus and save your money up. It was real nice."
Following the camp, the 6-3, 230-pound Browning spent time with current Longhorn linebacker Malik Jefferson. Prior to the camp, Texas head coach Charlie Strong delivered a pretty specific message to Browning, who plans to graduate in December - stay on point with his online classes and stay away from the video games. Overall, it was a productive visit for Browning and the Longhorns.
"My main takeaway was the relationships with the players. I didn’t know a majority of them before I came down here, but just hit it off from the jump," Browning said. "Real easy to connect with the guys on the team. We have a lot of respect for each other, they’re all good guys."
Among the current players Browning said he clicked with were Tope Imade, Jordan Elliott, Jeffrey McCulloch, Patrick Hudson, Jefferson, Anthony Wheeler, Chris Daniels and Townsend. Up next, the blue-chip linebacker will turn his attention towards what should be a successful 2016 season.
"This is my last visit, so I'll just focus on the season," Browning said.
