Houston Cougars Add 3-Star Linebacker to Continue Building 2026 Class
Head coach Willie Fritz and his staff are putting together something impressive in Houston. Despite already securing one of their strongest recruiting classes in recent memory, the Cougars continue to add talent. On Wednesday evening, Houston received a commitment from Tyler Covar, a three-star linebacker out of Magnolia, Texas.
Covar, who measures 6-foot-2 and 215 pounds, fits the physical profile defensive coordinator Austin Armstrong values in both high school prospects and transfer additions. He plays for Magnolia High School, located roughly an hour from the University of Houston.
Originally, Covar planned to play for Navy and committed to the Midshipmen in late June. However, he chose to change course on Wednesday—decommitting from Navy in the afternoon and pledging to Houston just six hours later.
How Covar Strengthens Armstrong’s Defense
Covar becomes the 18th commitment in Houston’s 2026 class, joining defensive recruits such as Kaleb Walker, Isaiah Broughton, and Kah’ni Watts, among others.
During his senior year at Magnolia, Covar racked up 133 tackles, 9 sacks, five forced fumbles, and four fumble recoveries—a stat line that shows how disruptive he can be. His film highlights his knack for slipping into the backfield, diagnosing plays quickly, and applying pressure on quarterbacks. His build and play style are also similar to standout linebacker Corey Platt Jr., giving Houston another physically ready defender.
Houston Continues to Dominate In-State Recruiting
Like many local prospects, Covar appears to be buying into the culture Fritz and his staff are creating. The Cougars already boast a strong 2026 class, headlined by five-star quarterback Keisean Henderson.
Securing a local linebacker’s commitment shortly after a loss underscores the momentum Houston maintains on the recruiting trail. Even with some setbacks this season, the staff’s consistency in landing talent remains steady.
For Cougar fans, that reliability has become a trademark of Fritz’s approach. In just two years, he is clearly elevating the program. Houston currently holds the No. 33 recruiting class nationally and ranks fifth in the Big 12.
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