Days removed from landing its quarterback, the 2026 Rice Football recruiting class picked up one of his protectors. Offensive lineman Leyonte Chandler has committed to the Owls.

The 2026 Rice Football recruiting class isn’t slowing down as it continues to stockpile talent throughout the summer. While June was particularly busy, the Owls have made two crucial additions to their group in July, most recently adding this key protector in the trenches. Euless Trinity offensive lineman Leyonte Chandler has committed to the Owls.

Chandler’s services were tightly contested with more than a dozen programs vying for his services including San Diego State, UTSA, Navy, North Texas, Texas State, Arkansas State and New Mexico, among others. Given a myriad of choices, Chandler picked South Main.

“I can tell coach Abell wants to win and the program is like a family,” Chandler told The Roost. “I feel like they will develop me to be the best version of myself.”

Chandler joins Sinton HS product Clay Mitchell as the Owls’ pair of offensive line commitments in the class, so far. They’ll block for newly committed quarterback Ayden Wilhelm, who made his pledge just days before Chandler.

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The 6-foot-5, 285-pound Chandler gets low and moves people, aspect of his game that jump out as soon as you turn on the tape. When asked about his game, Chandler pointed to his hand usage to engage defenders and active feet. He’s a physical presence in the trenches and should be a great building block for the Owls up front for years to come.

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