Recruiting: Army adds Texas OL Brady Stephenson to 2024 class

Brady Stephenson was following Army football long before the Black Knights started recruiting the Texas offensive tackle.

Stephenson watched his share of Army games on television, having a West Point graduate in his family. Stephenson’s uncle, Mike Arthur, was a practice-squad defensive end for Army.

And, Tay Andrews, Stephenson’s former teammate at Lockhart High, committed to Army during Stephenson’s sophomore season and is now a freshman wide receiver for the Black Knights.

Both would prove to be sounding boards as Stephenson’s commitment came down to Army and Air Force. The connections from his uncle and high school teammate helped give Army the advantage. West Point’s elite history and leadership were also key in his decision.

Stephenson officially committed to Army offensive line coach Mike Viti earlier today.

“It feels like a dream come true,” Stephenson said. “What really helped me make my final decision is the amazing history of West Point and the opportunity to serve and play high-level football.”

Arthur told his nephew of the “great opportunity and tremendous honor” of graduating from West Point. Stephenson learned more about cadet life from Andrews, who played at Army Prep last season.

“About how life is as a cadet and what he (Andrews) found more difficult and easier than expected,” said Stephenson, a first-team, all-district pick as a junior.

On the field, Stephenson, who is 6-foot-5, 270 pounds, looks to “bring an aggressiveness, energy and my best every day.”