Twin defensive ends Darryl and Mandrel Desir have formally decommitted from Florida State and committed to Texas Tech, making a dramatic change in the college football recruiting landscape. They chose the Red Raiders over Texas and Alabama, two of the best schools. Using social media, the Desir brothers—both top-150 national prospects out of Miami Central High School in Florida—confirmed their choice during a live press conference that was streamed from Lubbock.
As Texas Tech continues to upend the recruiting scene by acquiring one of the most sought-after defensive duos in the country, this pledge represents a turning point for head coach Joey McGuire and his staff. At six feet five and 250 pounds, Darryl is renowned for his quickness off the edge and unrelenting pursuit of the quarterback. With his strength, physicality, and excellent football IQ, Mandrel, who stands 6′ 4 and weighs 245 pounds, is a great addition to his brother. In their senior season of high school, they combined for more than 35 sacks and 50 tackles for loss.
The Desirs had been a member of the Seminoles’ class for about nine months before being pledged to Florida State. But the brothers claim that a reassessment was necessary because of inconsistent communication and a sense of being “taken for granted.” Darryl stated, “Florida State was a dream in the beginning, but we realized we needed a coaching staff that believed in us at every turn.” We discovered that in Texas Tech and Coach McGuire.
Earlier this spring, the twins made official trips to Texas and Alabama, both of which were thought to be top choices. Texas provided a brand-first, NIL-friendly strategy, while Alabama offered the NFL pipeline and the prestige of titles. However, neither was able to replicate the genuine connection the Desirs claimed to have in Lubbock.
“Tech stood out because they were so authentic,” Mandrel said. They taught us how we would grow as players and guys, not only for highlight plays. The Red Raiders are serious people. This place is unique.
The hiring process was greatly aided by Texas Tech’s coaching staff, particularly defensive coordinator Tim DeRuyter. The Desir twins might flourish in Tech’s hybrid front, according to DeRuyter, who has coached a number of edge rushers of NFL caliber. In 2025, Darryl and Mandrel are anticipated to contend for early playing time and have the potential to make an immediate impact on a defense trying to strengthen its front seven.
The hiring process was greatly aided by Texas Tech’s coaching staff, particularly defensive coordinator Tim DeRuyter. The Desir twins might flourish in Tech’s hybrid front, according to DeRuyter, who has coached a number of edge rushers of NFL caliber. In 2025, Darryl and Mandrel are anticipated to contend for early playing time and have the potential to make an immediate impact on a defense trying to strengthen its front seven.