AUSTIN, Texas — Jaydon Chatman was always the biggest kid on the field, even when he played running back as a five-year-old to start his football career.

“I’d just run at people. That was fun,” said Chatman with a big smile.

Chatman eventually transitioned to the offensive line from the backfield as he got older. The six-foot four-inch, 290-pound senior has been entrenched as a starter on the Harker Heights offensive line since his sophomore year. 

“When I got switched to O-line, at first I didn’t like it, because the only thing I played was running back,” Chatman said. “But then more and more time passed, and I started to enjoy it and just love it.”

Chatman said he specifically likes the physicality that comes with playing in the trenches.

“You can hit people knowing that you’re not going to get in trouble for it,” Chatman said. “It’s one of the most important positions on the field.”

It’s also a position that the University of Texas has been trying to upgrade since Steve Sarkisian was hired two years ago. Chatman verbally committed to the Longhorns in June. 

“It really felt like home. It was also one of my first offers and close to family,” said Chatman about Texas.

Chatman said his dream has always been to play in the National Football League. He believes his work ethic, combined with Texas’ ability to develop him, gives him a good chance at making that dream a reality.

“It really excites me knowing that they have trust in me and I trust them,” Chatman said. “They’re gonna get a leader, someone that steps up, someone that’s motivated.”