The 2025 college football recruiting cycle is shifting into high gear, and the latest class rankings are revealing some fascinating storylines. As the early signing period rapidly approaches, the jockeying for position among top programs has led to a few surprises and plenty of movement in the rankings.
Ohio State Takes Top Spot, Georgia and Alabama Close Behind
Urban Meyer’s retirement shook up the recruiting landscape, but Ohio State has rebounded impressively under new leadership. The Buckeyes now hold the No. 1 spot, buoyed by two five-star cornerback commits in Na’eem Offord and Devin Sanchez. However, Georgia and Alabama are hot on their heels, with the Bulldogs adding five-star WR C.J. Wiley and the Crimson Tide landing coveted DB Ivan Taylor.
Ole Miss Making Moves
Lane Kiffin has utilized the transfer portal effectively at Ole Miss, but he’s proving his high school recruiting chops as well. The Rebels surged in the rankings after flipping in-state five-star receiver Caleb Cunningham from Alabama and securing several other key commits. Kiffin is building a potential playoff contender in Oxford.
Deion Sanders Scores Biggest Commit Yet at Colorado
Coach Prime pulled off perhaps the most stunning coup of the 2025 cycle, flipping five-star QB Julian Lewis from USC to Colorado. The dynamic dual-threat passer gives the Buffaloes a marquee name to build around. Sanders is showing he can win recruiting battles with the sport’s blue bloods.
Getting a talent like Julian is a total game-changer for our program. Sky’s the limit for this 2025 class now!
– Colorado assistant coach, per sources
Texas, LSU, Oregon Hold Steady in Top 10
While the very top of the rankings saw some shakeups, familiar recruiting powers like Texas, LSU, and Oregon remain firmly in the top 10. The Longhorns continue to thrive in-state, while LSU is once again cleaning up in talent-rich Louisiana. Oregon is building a strong class with recruits from all over the country.
Notre Dame, Oklahoma on the Rise
Traditional powers Notre Dame and Oklahoma are both trending upwards in the 2025 cycle. The Irish have landed several key commits, including five-star OT Will Black. Oklahoma’s transition to the SEC seems to be paying dividends on the trail, as they’re in the mix for a top 10 class.
We’re putting together a special group here. The 2025 guys can’t wait to get to South Bend and compete for championships.
– Notre Dame commit, per reports
Deep, Competitive Class Taking Shape
Outside the top 10, programs like Penn State, Washington, Miami, and Tennessee are assembling strong classes of their own. The depth and talent level of the 2025 group looks to be extremely high across the board.
With just a few open spots remaining in most classes, look for the competition to land the final unsigned blue-chippers to be fierce. The 2025 recruiting cycle is shaping up to be one for the ages, with potential for more late fireworks and surprises.
One thing is for certain – the 2025 freshman class is poised to make a major impact the moment they step on campus. The future stars of college football will be fun to watch develop over the coming years. The 2025 recruiting class rankings provide a thrilling preview of the next wave of elite talent on its way to powerhouse programs across the nation.