The Hilltopics caught up with 2026 Katy Paetow High School defensive lineman Daryl Campbell, who picked up an offer from SMU on January 17.

"My first meeting with defensive line coach Calvin Thibodeaux was during the camp season, and he said he loved how I moved. Then he saw my film and came to see me again and offered me. I had sent him my film, not thinking he would reply, but he was like he wanted to see me in person. I got another opportunity from God, and I'm blessed to have it."

He has a good relationship with the Mustangs staff and holds them in high regard.

"The SMU program and coaches are great stand-up men who will always be there for you, and I loved that."

Campbell was named a District 19-6A Second Team All-District selection and helped lead the Panthers (7-4) to the playoffs.

"Our season went very well. Teamwise, we came together, became disciplined, and fought so much adversity coming from a 2-8 season."

Campbell, who also has offers from Stephen F. Austin, UTSA, Texas Tech, Grambling State, Houston, Wisconsin, UNLV, Sacramento State, and Oklahoma State, said the recruiting process has been going great for him.

"The recruiting process is going great! It's amazing to have what I have right now, and I'm very blessed. I'm just ready to see what the future holds for me."

He was able to take a few game-day visits and has some official visits set up for later this year.

"I went to Wisconsin, Houston, Sam Houston, and TCU. I don't have any camps scheduled, but I will be going on an official visit to Houston, Texas Tech, and Wisconsin this summer."

Campbell is taking everything in stride with recruitment and the off-season. But he knows what he will be looking for when he does decide to commit.

"I will be looking to make bonds and relationships and to be a part of a real family. As for the off-season, it is going great for me and my team. We're trying to build in this season, and we have to build up our discipline and become better than last year!"

Look for him to add a few more offers before his recruitment is all said and done.