National Signing Day 2019: Earl Barquet brings the Boot back to Funky Town

It was a long time coming, but TCU finally found a Louisiana boy for #CarterBoys19.

Earl Barquet, a native of Marrero, committed to the Frogs just days after taking an official visit in mid-January. Despite being pursued by 15 other programs, including Georgia, Oklahoma, and Florida State - not to mention several from his home state - Barquet chose TCU and the chance to play for Gary Patterson, making it official on Wednesday’s National Signing Day.

Barquet, a 6’3”, 236 pound strong-side defensive end, ranks as a three star prospect, a top 50 player at his position and the 21st best player in Louisiana. After an injury-shortened junior campaign, Earl fought back to have a big senior season. Athletic and long, Barquet certainly fits the mold of a Gary Patterson pass-rusher, and with a slough of graduates to replace, he may get a shot to see the field sooner rather than later. That’s something that appealed to him, according to Jeremy Clark of 247 Sports. “They said they need d-linemen and I stepped up. I’m excited; they said they like how I play and like my film. Dan Sharp is my guy.”

With a great speed rush and the ability to fight through double teams, Barquet has the tools to be the next great edge rusher for the Frogs. He’s a strong tackler and a hard-hitter that QBs do not want to see coming through their offensive line.

Joining December-signees Thomas Armstrong and Colt Ellison as defensive end, along with tackles Soni Misi and Karter Johnson, Barquet is another excellent piece in what is shaping up to be a stacked unit for years to come. TCU also signed prep school player Adam Plant, but he counts against the 2018 scholarship numbers.

The Frogs hold the #3 rated class in the conference and a top 30 unit overall. Finding Barquet late is a huge part of their strong finish. Welcome to the Frog Fam, Earl!