A late addition to the 2026 Rice Football Recruiting class, versatile playmaker Austin Lee from nearby Ridge Point High School has committed to the Owls.
With summer report day right around the corner, there’s not much time left to add to the 2026 Rice Football Recruiting class, but that hasn’t stopped the program from doing just that. A nearby speedster is joining the program just in the nick of time. Ridge Point running back Austin Lee has committed to the Owls.
Lee has been on the Owls’ radar for some time, but with limited roster spots and the skill positions filling up quickly, offers were at a premium. With no spring portal, Lee’s continued availability, and a more holistic view of the roster, the union made sense for both parties.
Where Lee fits remains to be seen, but the speed is real. He has reported 40-yard dash times in the 4.40s and hit 20+ miles per hour throughout his senior season, according to in-game tracking GPS data. At 5-foot-11 and 165 pounds, his next home could be in the slot or the backfield. The priority was getting him to campus, where the Owls will do all they can to find the fit that makes the most sense.
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Lee’s acceleration jumps out immediately with one look at his tape. He can put his foot down and go, showcasing impressive speed in the open field. He’s got some wiggle too, bouncing in and out of traffic to find the open lane before hitting the afterburners. He’ll be a great late-add to the Owls’ offensive arsenal.