It was a productive two weekends for official visits at Houston, bringing in 15 commits. The first linebacker to commit to UH in the 2027 class is Midlothian’s Jerrell Bridges.
The connection between Bridges and Houston began when Outside Edges coach James Ross saw him in person. After visiting Midlothian, Ross reported back to General Manager Wes Fritz that he was impressed with Bridges. Fritz then called Bridges to let him know that the Coogs would be extending an offer.
From there, defensive coordinator Austin Armstrong and director of player personnel Casey Smithson communicated most with Bridges. “They’d talk to me almost every single day,” Bridges said. Armstrong’s coaching style and his efforts to pursue Bridges were factors in his decision to choose Houston.
“Seeing how much he values me, how much he’s been talking to me, showing that he really… wants me to be there”, Bridges said. “How he explains things, teaches things, his communication, that’s what really drew me to him.”
Bridges is originally from New Orleans but moved to Texas before junior high. He said he goes home often and was most recently there during Mardi Gras. The Louisiana connection was another influence, as the Fritz staff has ties to Louisiana, as does the roster.
Christian Brathwaite was Bridges’ host during his visit. Brathwaite, or “Cree,” is from Houston but started his college career at LSU. “He was a really good host, telling me his experiences…how he liked it here,” said Bridges. Jerrell also mentioned a conversation with tight end Wyatt Herbel that left a good impression on him about the program and what to expect.
Bridges on the field
Bridges’ speed is apparent when you turn on his film; He is often untouched in pursuit of the ball carrier. Bridges’ best time in the 100M is 10.84 as a sophomore, but he says he “would’ve went faster this year” if not for an injury that kept him out of competition.
A good example of his speed showing up is his depth at the snap. Three to five yards behind the defensive line is about the normal depth for linebackers, but Bridges often lines up almost six yards behind the defensive line and still is able to meet the ball at the line of scrimmage or even in the backfield.
He said he believes his greatest strength is his ability to diagnose plays quickly. Film study plays a part in that, but he credits his natural instincts more. His decisiveness, paired with speed, leads to the disruption of many plays. The recognition and speed enable Bridges to meet the ball and make a thumping impact.
But he admits his speed can be a bit of a hindrance and knows he won’t have as many free-running opportunities at the next level. And his block destruction is a big emphasis for him when he gets to campus.
Bridges told me he has shut down his recruitment and is canceling other official visits. He continues to get offers, including one from Texas on Monday, but plans to sign with UH in December and report to campus in the spring with many of his fellow commits.
Bridges (@Jbridges_22) tells me he is shutting things down, and is locked in with the #Coogs. He is cancelling his other OVs. More to come soon. https://t.co/kJwvbBGJi9
— Martin Marroquin (@mahrowkeen) June 2, 2026
