LUBBOCK, Texas – After setting the college football world abuzz with a headline-grabbing performance in the 2025 transfer portal, Texas Tech is now turning its attention to the high school ranks — and the Red Raiders are targeting some of the top talent in the country. Among the most sought-after recruits in the 2026 class is 4-star offensive lineman Noah Best, a powerful and versatile trench warrior from Midlothian, Texas.
Measuring in at 6-foot-3 and 290 pounds, Best has caught the attention of college programs nationwide with his mix of size, strength, footwork, and football IQ. With offers from powerhouse programs including LSU, Texas, Michigan, Auburn, Arkansas, Baylor, UCLA, Ole Miss, Wisconsin, Nebraska, and Oklahoma State, Best’s recruitment has been one of the more closely watched in the Lone Star State.
However, a recent post by Best on X (formerly Twitter) may offer a clue as to where his focus lies. Captioned simply “Where’s home?”, the graphic featured the logos of Texas Tech, Oklahoma, Missouri, SMU, and Kansas State — signaling a potential narrowing of his top contenders. And notably, the Red Raiders remain firmly in the hunt.
Texas Tech’s inclusion in Best’s shortlist comes as no surprise given the momentum the program has built under head coach Joey McGuire. With a revamped staff, aggressive NIL backing, and an energized fanbase, Tech has become one of the most attractive destinations in the Big 12. The staff’s emphasis on building a dominant offensive line to complement their explosive system has clearly resonated with Best, who is projected as a future anchor at guard or center at the collegiate level.
The Red Raiders are not just making noise on the field — they’re making waves on the recruiting trail. After pulling in an impressive haul from the 2025 transfer portal, they’ve leveraged that success to attract elite high school talent. Best, a Texas native with strong regional ties, would be a marquee addition to Tech’s 2026 class and a key building block for the future.
Best’s skill set makes him a plug-and-play type of lineman. His low center of gravity, quick hands, and ability to dominate at the point of attack have made him a standout at camps and on tape. Coaches from across the country have praised his technique and toughness, which has translated into a surge in scholarship offers.
While Oklahoma and Missouri remain serious contenders, Texas Tech’s consistent communication, in-state presence, and the opportunity to be part of a rising program may give them an edge. NIL packages and the promise of early playing time could also play a significant role in swaying Best’s final decision.
As the recruiting battle intensifies, all eyes will be on Noah Best and where he ultimately decides to call home. For Texas Tech, landing a player of his caliber would send another strong message: the Red Raiders are building something special — and the future is now.
