Louisville has secured a commitment from an in-state offensive lineman for its 2026 recruiting class. Bryten Close, a standout from Taylor County High School, announced his decision to join the Cardinals on Tuesday afternoon.
“Coach Owens has been really persistent in recruiting me recently, and I was blown away by the facilities and the campus,” Close told Cardinal Authority. “There were two main reasons why this choice was so easy. First, being from Taylor County, it’s a smooth transition to stay close to home and play for a team I’ve grown up supporting. Second, Coach Brohm has completely transformed the program’s culture, and I believe Louisville is the right place to help me reach the next level.”
Close is now the sixth in-state player to commit to Louisville’s 2026 class.
Standing 6-foot-6 and weighing 285 pounds, Close has made two visits to Louisville this spring. He attended a spring practice and also joined around 50 recruits at L&N Stadium for the Spring Game, both visits leaving a strong impression.
“I had a great time on campus again,” Close said. “The Spring Game atmosphere was intense, and I loved the tempo. Coach Owens mentioned the possibility of an offer, and he’s planning to visit me soon. I’m hoping to make a strong impression.”
Louisville eventually extended that offer, and Close officially became a Cardinal.
In addition to Louisville, Close had offers from East Carolina, Eastern Kentucky, Western Kentucky, Liberty, Howard, Penn, Ohio, Colgate, and UMass. Primarily an interior offensive lineman, Close also contributes on defense. During his junior season, he recorded 59 tackles and 14.5 tackles for loss.
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