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Offensive lineman Payton Kirkland commits to Texas over Hurricanes

An in-state offensive lineman chose to head away from Florida instead of staying down south.

Four-star offensive lineman Payton Kirkland committed to Texas on Saturday night, choosing the Longhorns over Florida, Miami and several other teams. He announced his choice on 247Sports’ YouTube channel.

“They were always the dark horse in my relationship,” Kirkland said on the broadcast.

Kirkland said he was drawn to Texas by head coach Steve Sarkisian and offensive coordinator and offensive line coach Kyle Flood.

Kirkland, who plays for Orlando’s Dr. Phillips High, is rated the No. 25 offensive tackle and No.