Columbia High's Casey Gladney Signs with Texas Tech

Columbia High football player Casey Gladney had a surprise for everyone on National Signing Day.

The wide receiver announced his choice Wednesday by pulling a Texas Tech sweatshirt out of his bag and saying, "Guns Up!" 

Gladney, who has been committed to Alabama since June, made the decision to sign with Texas Tech just last weekend, Coach Kemper Amick said. 

Gladney said he expects to be on the field in his first season at Texas Tech. 

"I've got a positive chance to qualify and I'm ready to go," he said. 

Gladney made the announcement in the Columbia High media center with his mother, Veronica West-Lemon, standing behind him. His two long-time teammates Justin Muller and KyNicholas Tyler, were also there to announce their decisions. 

Gladney had 1,291 receiving yards and 19 touchdowns this season.

"It was a great experience playing with all my friends and teammates," Gladney said.

Now, he's ready to move on to Texas Tech. 

"I know I'm going to have my downfalls," he said, "but I'm going to play hard on the field and study hard in the classroom."