The 2026 Rice Football Recruiting class dipped back into the high school ranks with their most recent pledge. Safety Xavier Ether has committed to the Owls.
Most of January has been spent adding the right Transfer Portal pieces to the 2026 Rice Football recruiting class, but ample room was carved out for the right high school additions, should they merit inclusion. One such young player proved himself worthy of the spot. Safety Xavier Ether has committed to the Owls.
Rice initially offered Ether back in October, his first offer from the FBS ranks. Ether told The Roost he was extremely interested in what the Owls had to offer from the start.
“Coach Abell and the staff were real from day one, and I really believe in what they are building,” he said. “On top of that, Rice’s academics and the culture made it feel like the best place for me to grow on and off the field.”
Ether made his pledge official on Sunday, becoming the lone high school safety in the class so far. He’ll sign in February with fellow defensive back verbal pledge Jordan Mitchell, who has been committed to Rice since August.
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Ether says he prides himself on his consistency, a strong base he builds off with explosive playmaking ability on both sides of the ball. He’ll suit up in the defensive secondary with the Owls, but he has plenty of experience on special teams and with the ball in his hands, with such plays all over his film.
“They’re getting someone who’s going to work every day, be a great teammate, and represent Rice the right way,” Ether said. “I’m excited to be part of the program and give everything I’ve got.”
