With the early signing period for the class of 2025 just 27 days away, the college football recruiting landscape is entering its most pivotal stretch. While 283 of the top 300 prospects in the ESPN 300 are committed, major questions and potential shakeups loom large at the top of the rankings.
Five-Star Quarterback Drama
The quarterback position has delivered some of the biggest twists of the 2025 cycle, a trend that could continue in the coming weeks. No. 1 overall prospect Bryce Underwood has been committed to LSU since January, but Michigan has stepped up its efforts, backed by a competitive NIL package, to keep the Belleville, MI product in-state.
Meanwhile, USC commit Julian Lewis, the No. 2 player in the ESPN 300, has taken multiple visits to Colorado this fall. With the Trojans stumbling in their first Big Ten season, the door could be open for a flip.
The Jahkeem Stewart Sweepstakes
Recently reclassified five-star defensive end Jahkeem Stewart is now the No. 11 prospect in the 2025 class and the second-highest rated uncommitted recruit. The 6’6″, 270-pounder will visit Oregon, Ohio State, LSU, and USC in the coming weeks before a Dec. 4 decision. The Ducks and Buckeyes hold the early edge and landing Stewart could be key for either to secure a historic class.
Colorado’s Momentum
At 6-2, Colorado is ranked No. 21 and in Big 12 title contention under Deion Sanders. Yet with just 10 commits and none ranked in the ESPN 300, the Buffaloes are taking a slow approach to the 2025 cycle. In addition to pursuing Julian Lewis, Colorado has also hosted multiple other blue-chip visitors in recent weeks as it aims to turn its on-field success into a strong close on the trail.
Florida Flips Watch
Florida State has already lost five ESPN 300 commits amid its 1-8 start, leaving five-star OT Solomon Thomas as the Seminoles’ most important remaining pledge. Sources believe his recruitment could still turn. Miami is also pushing for flips from high-profile prospects committed to LSU, Oregon, and Michigan.
Powers Positioning to Close Strong
Texas and Michigan sit at No. 6 and No. 14 in the class rankings and are angling for strong finishes. The Longhorns are the favorites for No. 30 overall prospect Michael Terry and remain in pursuit of five-stars Justus Terry and Michael Fasusi. The Wolverines could still flip Ohio State CB commit Na’eem Offord and are battling the Longhorns for four-star LB Nathaniel Owusu-Boating.
Struggling Schools’ Signing Day Push
Auburn, Nebraska, and USC have stumbled to disappointing 2024 seasons, putting extra importance on their 2025 class finishes. The Tigers are working to keep their No. 4 ranked class intact while chasing high-profile flips. The Huskers are pushing for top targets like Terry and TE Chase Loftin. USC is prioritizing keeping Julian Lewis while pursuing four-star LB Madden Faraimo.
Over the next month, the early signing period will bring clarity to these recruiting questions and many more as college football’s powers work to secure tomorrow’s stars. With the ever-evolving impact of NIL, the transfer portal, and shifting competitive landscapes, the 2025 finish is shaping up to be as intriguing as any in recent cycles.
