Blue-chip EDGE David Dotson commits to SMU: “I believe in what Coach Lashlee is building”

SMU is building a special 2028 recruiting class — and added a foundational piece to the puzzle on Sunday.

Blue-chip Humble (Texas) Atascocita EDGE David Dotson committed to the Mustangs — over the likes of Texas, Texas A&M, and Oklahoma. The Rivals Industry Ranking No. 16 EDGE in the country was last on the Hilltop over the summer for the Mustang Splash — and will get Dotson back to campus this Saturday for the Virginia game.

“It was a place I could really see myself growing as a player and as a person,” Dotson told Rivals. “I believe in what Coach Lashlee is building — and I’m excited about the opportunity to compete at a high level, develop my game at defensive end, and help the program keep moving forward.”

“What really stood out to me was how consistent the staff was throughout the recruiting process,” he continued. “Connor Morgan and the rest of the staff made sure to keep building that relationship with me and showed me that I was a priority for their class. It wasn’t just about football; they made the effort to get to know me, communicate with me, and show me how I could fit into what they’re building. That meant a lot to me.”

Texas was trending with Dotson for stretches of his recruitment. SMU started to surge over the last month — and kicked it into a different gear amid the blue-chip defender’s outstanding junior campaign.

The Mustangs coaches were present at Atascocita High School last week — days leading into Dotson’s commitment. The prized pass-rusher is excited to grow on and off the field in Dallas.

“I’m excited about the opportunity to get to SMU keep developing, compete with great players, and eventually make an impact on the field,” he detailed. “I feel like SMU gives me a great opportunity to grow on and off the field, and I’m excited about what the future holds.”

Dotson ranks as the No. 121 overall prospect in the 2028 class, according to the Rivals Industry Ranking. He is the No. 16 EDGE in the country and the No. 15 player regardless of position in the state of Texas for next year’s crop.