One of Texas’ top defensive prospects is back on the market.

2026 safety Markel Ford (6'0, 190) announced Friday that he has decommitted from Texas A&M, reopening his recruitment after pledging to the Aggies on June 27.

“First and foremost, I want to express my deepest gratitude to God for blessing me with the talent and opportunities I’ve had, both on and off the field,” Ford wrote on X. “I also want to thank my mom and family for their unwavering support. A special thank you goes to Coach Elko, Coach Bateman, Coach Ish, and the entire A&M coaching staff for welcoming me into the Aggie family and giving me the opportunity to be part of something special.

“After much thought, prayer, and reflection, I have decided to decommit from Texas A&M. I believe it is in the best interest of my future to open up my recruitment once again. Thank you to everyone who has supported me during this journey. I am excited for what the future holds.”

Ford, a DCTF four-star prospect, is one of the most heavily recruited safeties in Texas. He holds more than 30 offers, including Baylor, Houston, SMU, TCU, Texas, Texas Tech, Arkansas, Colorado, LSU, Missouri, Nebraska, Oregon and Stanford.

It may be worth noting that SMU is a program close to home that was doing a great job early on in Ford's recruitment. 

Note: Sources at Mesquite Horn indicate that Ford has transferred and the article has been updated.