Offensive tackle Thomas Muiruri, from Eaton HS just north of Fort Worth, has seen a big spike in his recruiting this spring. He has received all eight of his offers since March 28 and will visit Houston beginning on May 28.
In an interview with GoCoogs Recruiting+, Muiruri said that UH Director of Player Personnel Casey Smithson was the first person on the Houston staff to reach out to him. Last season, they tried to coordinate a game day for him to attend. Offensive line coach Eman Naghavi finally had the opportunity to see him in person at practice and offered him.
Naghavi has “been checking on me every other couple of days. And then he came for a home visit not too long ago, which was my first one ever. So that really left an impact on me,” Muiruri said.
Muiruri is looking forward to getting on campus and checking out the “one of one” facilities that Coach Naghavi keeps promoting. And he wants the opportunity to engage with current players, as he thinks that they will be the best indicator of what the program offers on a day-to-day basis.
Muiruri on the field
At 6’8”, 285 pounds, Muiruri has a definite future at offensive tackle. He claims his arms measure 35 1/2 inches, and his wingspan is 86 inches. That would have placed him second in the most recent NFL Draft among offensive linemen behind only Markel Bell, who had 36 3/8 inch arms and an 87 1/8 inch wingspan.
Muiruri says his length gives him a “really clear advantage” in pass blocking. He utilizes it well, extending at the snap and packing a punch. You can see him knock pass rushers off balance and completely disrupt their path. His relative fluidity and ability to get out of his stance give him great potential to protect the passer.
He thinks he’s best when he can get in space or get moving in the run game. Despite his obvious advantages in pass blocking, Muiruri likes to “moves players around” to create yards on the ground. Even with a long frame, he can get low and win. With what the Coogs want to do on the ground, it’s good to get a player that not only can run block, but likes to open holes for running backs.
Where the Coogs rank
He will be an early enrollee at whichever school he decides to attend. Making him feel like a priority is most important to him. “Definitely rank in my top two right now just based off communication and obviously how I’ve been told I’d be treated. And just being able to talk to Coach Naghavi, it definitely seems like he wants me to be there.”
Muiruri says that Houston is competing with Tulane at the moment for top spot. He plans to make a decision by June 6 about his college home. Education is important to him; he plans on majoring in cybersecurity. His parents have emphasized earning his degree as much as pursuing a career in athletics.
Muiruri’s highlights
Come check out my full regular season highlights! pic.twitter.com/72MgmaVkzi
— Thomas Muiruri (@ThomasMuiruri7) November 12, 2025
