Baylor’s defensive line depth for the 2018 season just got a little stronger when the Bears officially added transfer DE James Lockhart from Texas A&M. Lockhart, a 2015 recruit from Ennis, TX, played sparingly as a true freshman and sophomore for the Aggies before deciding that he would transfer in December and will have two years of eligibility after sitting out this coming season and redshirting. His Twitter announcement is below:
— James Lockhart IV (@Lockhart__Era) January 11, 2017
This transfer has been expected for the last two weeks or so given Baylor’s prior relationship with Lockhart during his recruitment, the fact that Lockhart could transfer here without losing two years (because A&M is in the SEC, not the Big 12), and the potential for immediate playing time in 2018. At the very least, Lockhart will be quality depth for a defensive line that will sorely need it a year from now and could be an impact playmaker in Phil Snow’s defense.
Along with Anu Solomon, Lockhart marks the second official high-profile transfer for Matt Rhule’s staff, which will probably try to load up on similar guys to rebuild depth and has plenty of scholarships to go around. We’ll keep you posted if any similar situations arise going forward!