Air Force continued to build its Texas ties with a strong Class of 2009 with commitments from players in some of the state's top programs.

Third-year coach Troy Calhoun is using his Texas ties after beind a Houston Texans assistant to get commitments from Lake Highlands linebacker Austin Jones, Plano West's J.T. Thomas, Wichita Falls Rider's James Chambers, Klein Oak's Brian Corcoran and Flower Mound Marcus lineman Chase Douglass.

One thing I notice with every recruit is they're very good football players, first and foremost," said Jeremy Crabtree, the national recruiting editor at Rivals.com. "They might not have the measureables of other kids, but they're very good football players."

With a 17-9 record in two seasons, two bowl berths and his program gaining momentum, Air Force recently signed Calhoun to a five-year contract worth $4.175 million after Calhoun was mentioned as a possible candidate for openings at Tennessee and Clemson.

Air Force also plays regularly in Texas against TCU and Houston in the Mountain West Conference.

Air Force recruits don't sign binding letters of intent, and the academy does not release names of recruits because of the ongoing congressional appointment process.

Two-year starter and all-district selection played multiple defensive spots.

Coach Scott Ponder calls "physical" and "a hard-hitter."

Made 116 tackles, 41 for losses, and recovered three fumbles; team's defensive MVP.

Defensive Player of the Year in District 9-5A, led to district title and strong playoff run

Was recruited by Tulsa, Rice, SMU and others - "a gem," said HS coach Bill Persinger.

Two-way player, "which is unheard of in (Texas) 5A football," said his coach, Roger Holtkamp.

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