SMU lands commitment from elite 2028 QB Tristin Gaines

SMU has secured the commitment of elite Waller (Texas) quarterback, Tristin Gaines, for the 2028 season. The Texas prospect visited Dallas, Eugene, and Baton Rouge as SMU's No. 9 quarterback target. The Mustangs hosted Gaines twice this season, sparking his interest in the program. Gaines expressed excitement about SMU's offensive play style and the opportunities to see the field there.

He praised the relationship with head coach Rhett Lashlee and position coach D’Eriq King, stating that their visits had made a significant impression on him. Gaines is optimistic about his potential starting role on the team as a freshman or sophomore. As a junior, he has thrown for over 2,600 yards with 27 touchdowns and rushed for another 700 yards with 6 touchdowns.

This season, he surpassed 3,000 total yards and 30 touchdowns, scoring five in a playoff victory. Gaines ranks as the No. 85 player in the Rivals300 and is SMU's top prospect for the 2028 cycle.