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As June comes to a close, it brings with it a new recruiting landscape following a wave of commitments. USC maintains the top spot with a pair of recent ESPN 300 defensive commitments, but there are two new teams within the top five.

Texas A&M, Georgia, Texas, Miami and Florida State were all big movers and now sit within the top 10. The Longhorns continue to build a talented defensive line class with two more additions to that unit, led by five-star DE Richard Wesley, an explosive defender with impact ability.

Miami flipped former Georgia receiver Vance Spafford, who can be a big-play target, as he is one of the fastest receivers in this class.

Florida State is showing signs of shaking off a disappointing 2024 with a busy June, and the Noles now have double-digit commitments including several ESPN 300 prospects, such as receiver Devin Carter and QB Jaden O’Neal.

The class rankings have experienced a major shift and are far from done. Commitments and flips continue to roll in, and many more notable announcements are expected in the coming weeks, including from the No. 1-ranked prospect Lamar Brown, so no team should get comfortable.

Here’s a look at our latest top 25.

New this ranking: Florida State, Florida, Cal, BYU

Out: Arkansas, Arizona State, Oregon, Stanford

(Previous update: June 12)

Previous ranking: 1

ESPN 300 commits: 17

Top offensive prospect: OT Keenyi Pepe

Top defensive prospect: CB Elbert Hill

No program has more 2026 momentum than USC under Lincoln Riley, especially after hiring general manager Chad Bowden away from Notre Dame. The Trojans have double-digit ESPN 300 commits, with several joining the list since January. That includes two five-stars to start May in Pepe and Hill, and a pair of four-star commits who flipped from Big Ten rival Oregon: in-state defensive lineman Tomuhini Topui and quarterback Jonas Williams. Topui is a physical, aggressive defensive tackle who could develop into an interior pass-rushing headache for opposing offenses, and Williams is a true dual-threat signal-caller.

USC also made it a point to beef up in the trenches. It pulled four-star defensive tackle Jaimeon Winfield out of Texas, landed in-state defensive end Simote Katoanga and traveled to Utah to snag Corner Canyon offensive lineman Esun Tafa. To further bolster the O-line, the Trojans landed Pepe out of IMG Academy. He is huge at roughly 6-foot-7 and 320 pounds, but is light on his feet as well as physical and can become a standout tackle. On the perimeter, they will not have to wait for in-state defender R.J. Sermons as the ESPN 300 CB reclassified to 2025 and will join the Trojans this fall. For 2026, they pulled Elbert Hill, the top-ranked corner, out of the Midwest. Hill possesses elite speed, having been measured at over 22 mph in game play.

Previous ranking: 7

ESPN 300 commits: 13

Top offensive prospect: RB K.J. Edwards

Top defensive prospect: ATH Brandon Arrington

Mike Elko has quickly proved he can identify and recruit at a high level. He has worked fertile recruiting grounds outside his home territory, including Georgia, Florida, California. He went out west to land the nation’s No. 1-ranked athlete Brandon Arrington, whose speed could allow him to have an impact on either side of the ball, though he projects to corner in College Station. He pulled out Georgia ESPN 300 defensive end Jordan Carter and landed fellow four-star defensive tackle Jermaine Kinsler out of New Jersey.

The Aggies bolstered their rushing attack with a pair of in-state running backs in K.J. Edwards and Jonathan Hatton, who has an excellent blend of size (200 pounds) and speed (he was measured hitting 21 mph on film). Edwards has been very productive in high school, rushing for 1,700 yards in each of his last two seasons.

Elko has also been able to unearth talent from more unlikely places, such as quarterback Helaman Casuga out of Utah. Casuga is not a big, physical prospect at roughly 6 feet, but he has a live arm and can get the ball out quickly. Victor Singleton, one of the top prospects in Ohio, was a nice flip from Illinois. He has clocked a 21-mph max speed and has the type of quickness and excellent feet to thrive in man coverage at corner.

Previous ranking: 2

ESPN 300 commits: 14

Top offensive prospect: OT Tyler Merrill

Top defensive prospect: CB Khary Adams

Notre Dame started the year off slowly on the recruiting trail but added several key ESPN 300 additions in the spring and summer months, including important defensive additions. Rodney Dunham was one of the first on board and is an edge player with a quick first step. The secondary will benefit from adding some length to that unit. Ayden Pouncey is a rangy safety with a 6-foot-3 frame that could allow him to grow into an outside linebacker role. Khary Adams is one of the top cornerback prospects in the nation as he possesses an excellent blend of size (6-foot-2) and speed (21.3 mph max speed).

On offense, ESPN 300 OT Gregory Patrick joined a class that already featured several top offensive line prospects including top-10 tackle Tyler Merrill, who at 6-foot-7 and 335 pounds is a massive presence with physicality and power in the run game. This group collectively can continue the school’s strong reputation as an offensive line factory.

The Irish also landed Thomas Davis Jr., whose father is former Panthers star Thomas Davis, and four-star quarterback Noah Grubbs, who already has shown impressive footwork and a sound release from the pocket.

Previous ranking: 6

ESPN 300 commits: 12

Top offensive prospect: QB Jared Curtis

Top defensive prospect: CB Justice Fitzpatrick

The Bulldogs have been a consistent staple among the top three overall classes during Kirby Smart’s tenure and look to be a contender to do so again in 2026. A big step toward finishing near the top is bringing five-star quarterback Curtis back into the mix. After a decommitment, the Bulldogs were able to fend off other suitors, most notably Oregon, and give themselves a potential impact QB for the future. Curtis might need to adjust to a relatively steep jump in competition level, but he has elite physical tools, including a smooth, quick release and the ability to change arm angles.

With three of their top four pass catchers from 2024 having moved on and the fourth likely to leave after this season, Georgia is bringing in new receiving targets with speed. Brady Marchese has been recorded hitting over 22 mph in game play. After signing two ESPN 300 TEs in their 2025 class, the Dawgs continue to restock there, adding Lincoln Keyes, who with his big frame and good body control can offer a wide catch radius.

On defense, the Bulldogs have had 11 first-round NFL draft picks over the past five years and they continue to infuse that unit with top talent, including two of the top DBs in the country in Fitzpatrick and Zechariah Fort. Fort is a safety with good range who can be active in run support. Fitzpatrick is the younger brother of former Alabama great DB Minkah Fitzpatrick; his blend of size and speed gives him equally promising impact potential.

Previous ranking: 2

ESPN 300 commits: 13

Top offensive prospect: WR Chris Henry Jr.

Top defensive prospect: S Blaine Bradford

Ryan Day has the luxury of building his 2026 class around one of the most coveted players in the country: five-star receiver Henry, whose father, the late Chris Henry, was a star receiver for West Virginia and the Cincinnati Bengals. Henry Jr. stands 6-6 and has a combination of length and quickness rarely seen from high school receivers.

The rest of the Buckeyes’ class has started to take shape around Henry. The team has added a handful of ESPN 300 prospects since March, including Bradford out of Louisiana and linebacker Simeon Caldwell out of Florida. C.J. Sanna is a prospect we like on tape; he is a big, physical linebacker with excellent range and is a bit of an underrated pickup for this talented class. In-state offensive tackle Maxwell Riley is impressive changing direction and finishes plays with the type of nastiness that will endear him to fans in Columbus.

Previous ranking: 4

ESPN 300 commits: 10

Top offensive prospect: OT Leo Delaney

Top defensive prospect: S Kentavion Anderson

Clemson is coming off a College Football Playoff appearance, but the Tigers are still chasing the heights of their mid-2010s success under Dabo Swinney, and their 2025 class ranked just 37th in the country. Their 2026 group is looking more promising, especially after a red-hot March in which Swinney landed eight verbals, including five ESPN 300 commits.

Much of the talent is currently concentrated on offense. Naeem Burroughs is a burner in the 100-meter dash who can take the top off a defense and has a high football IQ. Fellow receiver Connor Salmin is another big-play threat. With some new offensive weapons, the Tigers are making sure they have the time to get the ball downfield by loading up along the offensive line. Delaney, Carter Scruggs, Grant Wise, Adam Guthrie and Chancellor Barclay give the Tigers multiple ESPN 300 OLs to help reload a senior-heavy unit that is projected to lose multiple starters after 2025.

They could one day protect fellow four-star Tait Reynolds, a dual-threat QB out of Arizona who could push to be part of the long-term solution to replace Cade Klubnik. While the foundation of the class is on offense, Anderson is a key in-state pickup on the other side of the ball. With his frame (roughly 6-foot-2, 190 pounds) and range, he can be a versatile back-end defender for the Tigers.

Previous ranking: 19

ESPN 300 commits: 9

Top offensive prospect: QB Dia Bell

Top defensive prospect: DE Richard Wesley

As Texas tackles the 2025 season led by one of the most high-profile signings in recent years in quarterback Arch Manning, the Longhorns continue to build for the future as well, including another five-star QB. Dia Bell brings valuable experience, having faced quality competition during his time in high school. He has shown good accuracy and deep-ball touch, and as a junior threw for more than 2,500 yards and completed 70% of his passes.

The Horns also added potential targets including ESPN 300 WRs Chris Stewart and Jermaine Bishop Jr. Stewart brings big-play speed, and Bishop is a quick, fluid target who can create after the catch. To protect their new offensive weapons, they have also landed some top in-state OLs, including top-10 OG Nicolas Robertson, a powerful big man with good feet.

Texas hit the transfer portal hard to address needs along the defensive line for this season, especially interior DL, but there are young pieces for that unit in the 2026 class. One-time Oregon commit Richard Wesley was a big add as he is explosive and powerful and could be a versatile and impact presence in the trenches. Dylan Berymon has been a standout on the camp circuit the last two offseasons and seems to keep rising to whatever challenge is thrown at him. Corey Wells is another 300-pounder who can bend well and be disruptive.

Previous ranking: 17

ESPN 300 commits: 9

Top offensive prospect: OT Jackson Cantwell

Top defensive prospect: LB Jordan Campbell

Despite a rocky finish to the 2024 season, the Hurricanes are trending in the right direction. They’re coming off a 10-win season, former QB Cam Ward was the No. 1 pick in the NFL draft and they’ve reeled in two consecutive top-15 recruiting classes. Mario Cristobal’s 2026 class is working to match or even exceed those groups.

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The Hurricanes are adding pieces to field a dominant offensive line. They could lose several projected 2025 starters after this season but are adding big men who can step in and project a bright future in the trenches. In addition to landing the top-rated interior OL in the 2025 class, they have added several OLs to their 2026 class, led by No. 1 tackle Jackson Cantwell. Much like current standout OT Francis Mauigoa, who was a five-star himself and a Year 1 starter, Cantwell could step in at one of the tackle spots upon arriving in South Florida. He is a massive presence at roughly 6-7 and 320 pounds and carries his size well. In addition to being powerful, he possesses good quickness and flexibility, and much like Mauigoa is being projected to be a high NFL draft pick.

QB Dereon Coleman has room for growth but has a quick release and accuracy. The Hurricanes flipped from Georgia a speedy receiving target out of California in Vance Spafford, who won the fastest-man competition last summer at the UA Future 50 event. Four-star Miami native Jordan Campbell is 6-2, 220 pounds with the versatility to make plays in pursuit and the bend and power that portend a potential impact pass rusher. He’s a candidate to take a leap with college coaching.

Previous ranking: 5

ESPN 300 commits: 7

Top offensive prospect: WR Davion Brown

Top defensive prospect: S Matt Sieg

The Nittany Lions jumped out to a fast start fueled by strong in-state recruiting and have kept that momentum going. Several of their top commits are Pennsylvania natives, including four-star Harrisburg High School teammates Kevin Brown and Messiah Mickens. Brown is a big, flexible offensive tackle, while Mickens has been a productive prep running back, which bodes well for a Penn State program that must finally replace Kaytron Allen and Nicholas Singleton after 2025.

James Franklin also landed in-state athlete David Davis Jr., who has clocked a 20.5 mph max speed and has the cover skills to fit into the back end of a defense one day. While most of the early commits are within Penn State’s primary recruiting radius, the Nittany Lions also landed strong-armed quarterback Troy Huhn out of California. He’s a big body with good feet and brings nice upside. They also went out of state to land a potential big-play target in Davion Brown. Out of Virginia, Brown possesses excellent speed, having been recorded at over 21 mph in game play, and can do a good job of high pointing the football to win contested matchups.

Previous ranking: NR

ESPN 300 commits: 8

Top offensive prospect: TE Xavier Tiller

Top defensive prospect: CB Lawrence Timmons

Mike Norvell cranked up the heat on Florida State’s 2026 recruiting class this summer. Coming off a 2-10 season that led to a staff overhaul, Norvell’s fresh start pitch is resonating with prospects. The Seminoles landed multiple four-star commitments in June, headlined by tight end Xavier Tiller, who checks in at No. 84 on the ESPN 300. A former Texas A&M commit, the 6-foot-5, 215-pound Tiller boasts an 80-inch wingspan, fluid movement skills and the toughness to win contested catches.

Tiller isn’t the only notable pass catcher entering the mix for Florida State. Wide receiver Devin Carter, the son of former Seminoles running back Dexter Carter, is back in the fold after initially flipping to Auburn. He brings explosive short-area quickness and strong bloodlines. Four-star Florida native Brandon Bennett adds another dynamic option.

Norvell also landed a quarterback who could one day get them the ball and tie the class together by flipping Jaden O’Neal, who plays at Mustang High in Oklahoma, from the in-state Sooners. The 6-foot-3 pocket-passer ranks No. 166 overall with a good frame, smooth delivery and calm demeanor. If Florida State holds onto O’Neal, he would be the program’s highest-rated quarterback signee since 2022.

Previous ranking: 9

ESPN 300 commits: 2

Top offensive prospect: ATH Nasir Rankin

Top defensive prospect: DE Kayden Bennett

Good recruiting starts at home, and an early priority for the Fighting Illini was in-state athlete Rankin. A two-sport star who also excels on the hardwood, the ESPN 300 prospect projects to wide receiver, where he can be a playmaker with good hands and the ability to make defenders miss after the catch. Also from in-state, big man Casey Thomann is one of the top OL prospects in Illinois, and three-star Tony Balanganayi is an interesting big man. He projects to the defensive line, where he has shown he can be disruptive, but with more mass could offer higher upside as an OL.

From within the Big Ten footprint, four-star Cam Thomas (Ohio) is a defender with an outstanding first step and could develop into an edge rusher with big upside. Parker Crim brings good arm length, can move well and has shown he can be explosive off the ball. Tony Williams, out of Florida, is a middle linebacker with good instincts and can be a physical presence between the tackles.

Previous ranking: 20

ESPN 300 commits: 2

Top offensive prospect: OT Micah Smith

Top defensive prospect: DE Anthony Jones

The DeShaun Foster era got off to a rocky start, but the Bruins are showing some ascension. In recruiting, the former running back knows the importance of a good O-line and pulled a pair of ESPN 300 OLs out of Florida in Micah Smith and Johnnie Jones. Known as Champ, Smith was an Under Armour All-American as a junior and has shown he can play against top competition and be a well-rounded OT. Tight end Camden Jensen should help propel the run game as well, as he is a good blocker.

The Bruins have added multiple WRs in this class, including in-state four-star Kenneth Moore. Onetime SMU commit Yahya Gaad has a sturdy, muscular build with a good initial burst and is a DE who can set the edge and be tough against the run.

Previous ranking: 8

ESPN 300 commits: 3

Top offensive prospect: WR Dyzier Carter

Top defensive prospect: ATH Wydeek Collier

The Scarlet Knights have added some top talent to their wide receiver room with Carter and Elias Coke, both of whom have been long-time commits, having joined the class before the 2024 season started. Carter is a good route runner with strong hands and could be a quick contributor once arriving. Coke is a nice target at roughly 6-2.

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On defense, Joey Kopec is a two-way player in high school, contributing at RB and LB. He has good range and is effective dropping into coverage. Wydeek Collier was a big riser in the rankings after the spring evaluation period as a lengthy, agile edge defender with a high ceiling for development. Rinaldo Callaway III, out of Georgia, is an interesting addition to keep an eye on. A rangy edge defender, he is raw and needs development but shows a nice ceiling for development and could grow into a disruptive pass rusher. Athlete Chris Hewitt projects to the secondary.

Previous ranking: NR

ESPN 300 commits: 8

Top offensive prospect: QB Will Griffin

Top defensive prospect: DE JaReylan McCoy

Landing one of the top defenders in the country is the fastest way to climb the recruiting rankings, and that’s exactly what Billy Napier did by securing five-star defensive end JaReylan McCoy. Ranked No. 9 overall and the second-best defender in the ESPN 300, McCoy would be Florida’s highest-rated defensive signee in more than a decade. The 6-foot-7, 260-pound Mississippi native brings elite length, explosive traits and a relentless motor that was on full display at the Under Armour All-America week in January. Beating out LSU and Texas for McCoy marks a major recruiting win for Napier, and McCoy has the potential to develop into one of the SEC’s most feared defensive linemen.

Florida is building toward double-digit ESPN 300 commitments, with seven of them-including McCoy-joining the class in June. That group features a pair of dynamic pass-catchers in Marquez Daniel and Justin Williams, as well as Georgia running back Carsyn Baker. Napier’s staff has also bolstered both lines of scrimmage with several high-upside prospects ranked just outside the ESPN 300, adding critical depth as Florida looks to reassert itself in the SEC.

Previous ranking: 16

ESPN 300 commits: 8

Top offensive prospect: WR Tristen Keys

Top defensive prospect: CB Havon Finney Jr.

The Tigers are tough to beat for in-state talent, and they built the foundation for one of the top classes in the country on homegrown recruits. But landing Keys from nearby Mississippi delivered Brian Kelly and his staff their first five-star of the 2026 cycle. As of now, the 6-3 Keys would be the highest-rated receiver to make it to Baton Rouge since Kayshon Boutte. Keys is a long strider with long arms who prioritizes winning and is a favorite of coaches and teammates alike.

LSU also recently added wide receiver Jabari Mack (a strong route runner) and offensive tackle Brysten Martinez, a pair of in-state four-star recruits who bolster a class that now features more than half of the top 10 players from Louisiana. That includes a pair of teammates from Edna Karr High: DT Richard Anderson, a stout presence at more than 300 pounds with good initial quickness, and Aiden Hall, a safety with good length, speed and downhill physicality. Though much of their recruiting success is from within their primary recruiting footprint, the Tigers did go out west to land ESPN 300 Finney. A 2027 prospect who reclassified into the 2026 class, he has shown he can be physical in press coverage but also brings excellent speed to be able to run with receivers.

Previous ranking: 24

ESPN 300 commits: 5

Top offensive prospect: OT Kodi Greene

Top defensive prospect: DE Derek Colman-Brusa

Jedd Fisch did an excellent job bringing in talent at Arizona and is now working to retool Washington’s roster and get the Huskies back into the playoff hunt. The Huskies won a key recruiting battle by pulling away Greene, an ESPN 300 OL, from rival Oregon. He is a 300-pounder who moves very well for his size with good quickness and the one-time Washington resident can be a key option in the trenches. The Huskies went east to land their QB in Derek Zammit, a tough, smart player with a smooth, quick release. He should continue to improve with the tools to develop into a productive starter.

Washington landed several commitments in the secondary, including in-state Durr, who has good size at roughly 6 feet and is smooth in his movements. He could develop at cornerback or safety.

Previous ranking: 22

ESPN 300 commits: 6

Top offensive prospect: QB Brady Smigiel

Top defensive prospect: DE Titan Davis

The Wolverines signed the No. 1 QB for the 2025 cycle in Bryce Underwood and he carries high expectations, but they continue to add talent to the position and landed ESPN 300 signal-caller Brady Smigiel. The onetime Florida State commit is not only an accurate passer, but he also plays with the confidence and swagger that will be needed battling with five-star Underwood.

After losing two DLs in the first round of the NFL draft, Michigan added several DLs to this class, including ESPN 300 DEs Titan Davis and McHale Blade. Four-star DE Tariq Boney is a player to keep an eye on. He lacks ideal length but can be a well-rounded technician and a quick contributor. After scoring from off the beaten path with former standout TE Colston Loveland (Idaho), the Wolverines hope to strike big again from that same region with Matt Ludwig out of Montana. He is a versatile player with good ball skills who can be tough after the catch and fights for yards.

Previous ranking: 13

ESPN 300 commits: 2

Top offensive prospect: QB Travis Burgess

Top defensive prospect: DT Trashawn Ruffin

Unsurprisingly given his ethos, Bill Belichick is building North Carolina’s 2026 class from the inside out. Griffin-Haynes was a key in-state keep. The aggressive, lengthy edge defender can bolster the Heels’ defensive front with the tools to be a three-down player. Four-star North Carolina defensive tackle Trashawn Ruffin flipped from Texas A&M, and the 300-pounder has plenty of raw physicality to mold. Ruffin is one of several interior linemen in the class, and Belichick went to his former home base in Massachusetts to bring in 335-pound guard Lenneil Hall.

The secondary has undergone some changes during this recruiting cycle, but Marcellous Ryan out of California remains and gives UNC a lean but fluid CB to develop. Crew Davis can be a versatile back with the power to run between the tackles, but he also possesses good ball skills. As a junior, he rushed for more than 1,300 yards and also hauled in more than 50 receptions. Quarterback commit Travis Burgess had a strong showing at the Elite 11 finals and jumped into the ESPN 300 after spring evaluations. He displayed steady development including improved accuracy and also has excellent mobility to create with his legs as well.

Previous rank: NR

ESPN 300 commits: 2

Top offensive prospect: OG Tommy Tofi

Top defensive prospect: DE Camron Brooks

Cal cracks the top 25 after Justin Wilcox opened June by landing a commitment from four-star guard Tommy Tofi, the nation’s top-ranked guard. At 6-foot-6, 340 pounds, the San Francisco-area player brings overwhelming size and physicality, consistently finishing blocks with an edge and flashing the power to impact both sides of the ball as a high schooler. If the Golden Bears hold onto Tofi, he would be the program’s highest-rated offensive line signee in more than a decade, edging out fellow guard Justin Hasenhuetl, part of Cal’s promising 2025 class.

The good news in the trenches doesn’t stop on offense, either. Four-star defensive end Camron Brooks committed in late April. While Tofi and Brooks are Cal’s lone ESPN 300 pledges so far, Wilcox and his staff have assembled a 20-plus player class loaded with quality depth as they continue to build in the trenches and beyond to compete in the ACC.

Previous ranking: 11

ESPN 300 commits: 2

Top offensive prospect: WR Jakai Anderson

Top defensive prospect: LB Markel Dabney

The Mustangs charged into the CFP last season and are showing signs they plan to be a consistent contender. Capitalizing on the rich talent base around them, they have added several in-state prospects, including ESPN 300 back Christian Rhodes. An explosive runner who has been recorded hitting better than 21 mph in game play, he rushed for more than 1,200 yards as a junior.

High three-star Aljour Miles II is another nice in-state add, as he is a lengthy WR with good quickness and body control. Another receiving target with big-play potential, Jakai Anderson, was pulled out of Louisiana. Not quite as big a target, he brings a good blend of speed and elusiveness and could also be productive in the return game. On defense, the addition of DE Hudson Woods is a big plus. Woods shows some savvy as a pass rusher, with active hands and good bend.

Previous ranking: NR

ESPN 300 commits: 3

Top offensive prospect: TE Brock Harris

Top defensive prospect: S Matthew Mason

Kalani Sitake’s 2026 class has the potential to be program-defining as BYU builds on the momentum of last year’s 11-win season, which saw the Cougars climb as high as No. 6 in the College Football Playoff rankings. The Cougars currently hold commitments from two top-100 ESPN 300 standouts-tight end Brock Harris and quarterback Ryder Lyons -marking what could be their most highly-rated duo of high school signees in the ESPN 300 era dating to 2006).

Harris, a 6-foot-7, 240-pound in-state product, has transformed from a jumbo wideout into one of the nation’s premier tight ends, adding size while retaining his fluid route-running and wide catch radius. He also brings toughness-Harris competed at the 2025 Under Armour All-America Game with a cast on his hand. If all goes according to plan, Harris will catch plenty of passes from Lyons, a four-star quarterback who won California’s Gatorade Player of the Year award this fall. Lyons’ commitment represents a full-circle win for BYU. The Cougars offered him as an eighth grader and held off programs like USC and Oregon to secure his commitment.

Another ESPN 300 prospect, two-way lineman Bott Mulitalo, committed in March and could be tasked with protecting Lyons down the road, adding to what has the makings of a historic haul in Provo.

Previous ranking: 10

ESPN 300 commits: 1

Top offensive prospect: OT Javeion Cooper

Top defensive prospect: DE Kamron Wilson

The Fran Brown era in Syracuse certainly isn’t boring. He led the Orange to just their second 10-win season since 2001 behind Ohio State transfer Kyle McCord, then landed a solid 2025 recruiting class. Now he’s pushing for more talent in 2026. Four-star defensive end Jarius Rodgers out of Florida is one of Brown’s biggest gets so far. The 6-5 220-pounder has tremendous length and an impressive track background. He has considerable physical tools and upside if Syracuse’s coaching staff can harness it. Wilson is another big pull out of Florida; the edge defender has good initial quickness and tallied 17 sacks in 2024.

Cooper has real upside too. He has good size (6-5, 300 pounds) yet plays with impressive balance for someone with his power and contact explosiveness. The Orange also have been active in the mid-Atlantic, landing three receivers from Delaware. Among that group is B.J. Garrett, a big target (6-3, 191 pounds) with good hands who could develop into a player in the mold of Oronde Gadsden, who had similar measurables coming out in the 2021 class.

Previous ranking: 21

ESPN 300 commits: 1

Top offensive prospect: OT Andrew Trout

Top defensive prospect: CB Justin Hopkins

The Gophers don’t have a class that will be heavy with ESPN 300 commits, but they’re assembling a strong group anchored by a plethora of high three-star prospects. CBs Justin Hopkins and Chance Payne are good examples of that, as is edge defender Aaden Aytch. A prospect with a lean build who needs to continue to develop, Aytch brings a high ceiling as he has good length, displays wiry strength, can redirect well and can be a factor in pursuit.

Beefing up the offensive line, the Gophers have several commits within the unit, led by the No. 1 player in the state, Andrew Trout, an ESPN 300 OT.

Previous ranking: 14

ESPN 300 commits: 1

Top offensive prospect: OL Kaden Snyder

Top defensive prospect: CB J.J. Dunnigan

Lance Leipold is no stranger to building a program, and he’s off to a hot start in fortifying Kansas’ 2026 class. At 6-3, 190 pounds, in-state corner Dunnigan has the length to reroute receivers off the line and the straight-line speed to hang with them on vertical routes. The Jayhawks have a few offensive linemen committed, led by 6-5 Kansas native Snyder, who has an enticing combination of athleticism, pass protection skills and upside if he can continue to fill out his frame.

The Jalon Daniels era enters its sixth and final season in 2025. In-state three-star commit Jaylen Mason is an intriguing developmental option for the future at QB.

Previous ranking: 18

ESPN 300 commits: 2

Top offensive prospect: QB Briggs Cherry

Top defensive prospect: DB Jaydin Broadnax

Jeff Brohm has raised Louisville’s floor with a 19-8 record and an appearance in the ACC championship game two years ago. His 2026 class already has more than a dozen commits, with four-star defensive back Broadnax out of Florida the biggest get so far. At nearly 6-3, he has great length, balance and body control for a corner. LB Karsten Busch is a nice addition from within the state who will help on defense. He possesses nice size and the ability to be a physical, downhill presence versus the run. Sam Dawson is another in-state defensive add. He is a DT with active, heavy hands and good power who can help stuff the run as well.

Evan Hampton, a three-star running back, ran for 1,549 yards and 20 touchdowns as a junior at in-state Owensboro High School. He’s an elusive, upright runner with the ball skills to affect the pass game and also has a baseball background; he originally committed to rival Kentucky as a freshman before pursuing football. Quarterback Briggs Cherry has performed well during in-person evaluations, including winning positional MVP during the Under Armour New Orleans camp in March. As such, the strong-armed passer has risen in the rankings.

Florida Gaining Ground With No. 1 OT Recruit originally appeared on Athlon Sports.

The Florida Gators have one commit already from the 2027 class and are looking to make it two.

On3’s Corey Bender reported that Florida is impressing with five-star offensive tackle Kennedy Brown.

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Brown is a native of Houston, Texas, out of Kingswood High School. He is listed at 6-foot-3.5, 285 pounds.

The Gators had Billy Napier’s first winning season as head coach in 2024. Florida ended the year at 8-5 after also winning the first bowl game of Napier’s tenure.

Since taking the Florida job in 2022, Napier has an overall record of 19-19. He has taken the program to two bowl games so far.

Florida Gators head coach Billy Napier. Matt Pendleton / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

“I’ve been keeping up with (co-offensive line) coach Jonathan Decoster, I’ve been keeping up with (assistant offensive line) coach (Kaleb) Johnson as well, so we’ve been talking,” Brown said. “They’re heavily recruiting me and stuff like that. We are having good conversations as well.”

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Brown is the No. 3 overall prospect and No. 1 offensive tackle in the On3 Industry Rankings for the 2027 class.

The On3 Recruiting Prediction Machine currently favors the Texas Longhorns, giving them a 28.4% chance of securing his commitment. The Texas A&M Aggies (13%) are in second place, followed by the Alabama Crimson Tide (11.2%) and the USC Trojans (9.3%).

Florida’s lone commitment from the 2027 class is four-star athlete Tramond Collins.

The Gators are having success with other prospects outside of the 2027 class. Florida was named a finalist for five-star safety Jireh Edwards. Edwards is the No. 2 safety in the class.

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Florida is also in the top five for four-star defensive lineman Nolan Wilson.

Napier’s fourth year opens with Long Island on August 30. Kickoff is at 7 p.m. ET on ESPN+ and SEC Network+.

Related: Urban Meyer Makes Florida Gators Prediction Ahead of 2025

This story was originally reported by Athlon Sports on Jun 28, 2025, where it first appeared.

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The Class of 2026 college football recruits feature a record 21 five-star players in the ESPN 300. With summer recruiting about to heat up, seven of those prospects have yet to make their college decision, including defensive tackle Lamar Brown, the No. 1 player in the class.

May is set to deliver some big recruiting news in the coming weeks. Jared Curtis, the fifth overall and top quarterback in the class, started things off with his commitment to Georgia on May 5.

For each commitment, recruiting reporter Eli Lederman and scouts Craig Haubert and Tom Luginbill will look at how recruits landed at their school and what we can expect in college:

Zion Elee, DE

2026 ESPN 300 ranking: 2

School/Hometown: St. Frances Academy/Baltimore, Maryland

Committed to: Maryland Terrapins

Background: Once ranked as the cycle’s No. 1 defender, Elee committed to Maryland on Dec. 7, 2024, after logging 120 total tackles and 23 sacks across his sophomore and junior seasons. If he ultimately signs later this year, Elee will join the Terps as the highest-ranked recruit in program history.

Despite his December pledge, Elee stayed in touch with other Power 4 programs in January and initially scheduled spring official visits to Auburn, Ohio State, Penn State, South Carolina and Texas A&M before canceling those trips and formally shutting down his recruitment in late February. As things stand, Elee is still locked in with the Terps with his June 20 trip to Maryland standing as the only official visit on his calendar this spring.

Scout’s take: Good recruiting starts at home. If Maryland holds on to Elee, he’d be the first No. 1 prospect from the area to reach Maryland in the ESPN 300 era, and the first time in five cycles the Terps landed the top in-state prospect. At roughly 6-foot-4 with an 80-inch wingspan, Elee is a lean, lengthy and disruptive edge rusher. That length blended with an excellent first step and a strong motor wreaks havoc off the edge. Maryland ranked last in sacks (14) in the Big Ten in 2024. The Terps hope signing Elee and 2025 ESPN 300 defensive end Zahir Mathis will remedy that situation. They could emerge as one of the conference’s most formidable pass-rushing duos. — Craig Haubert

Jackson Cantwell, OT

2026 ESPN 300 ranking: 3

School/Hometown: Nixa High School/Nixa, Missouri

Committed to: Miami Hurricanes

Background: Cantwell is the son of two Olympic shot putters — including a silver medalist at the 2008 Beijing Games — and his commitment to the Hurricanes marks perhaps the biggest recruiting win in Mario Cristobal’s tenure leading Miami.

A towering, yet athletic lineman, Cantwell kept in-state Missouri and Michigan involved in his process before cutting his finalists to Georgia, Miami, Ohio State and Oregon last month. Cantwell took a multi-day trip to see the Hurricanes in March and joins Miami as the program’s highest-ranked pledge since Cristobal took over following the 2021 season. Cantwell, a two-time state champion shot putter who holds multiple national high school throwing records, intends to continue his track and field career alongside football in college.

Scout’s take: A former offensive lineman at Miami, Cristobal has landed a key building block for that unit. The Canes’ O-Line unit looks to be strong this season, but could lose several pieces from that group after this season. Cristobal began reloading the unit in the Class of 2025, by signing the top interior offensive lineman in the country in S.J. Alofaituli, who projects to be in the mix this fall. Now the Canes has the No. 1 OT in the 2026 class.

Cantwell is a massive presence at roughly 6-foot-7 and 320 pounds and is powerful and tenacious in his play. Beyond his size, Cantwell is a flexible big body with good feet. He could have some growing pains early in his college career in pass protection, but should be expected to come in and play right away. His arrival could time well with the potential departure of 2023 five-star OL Francis Mauigoa who is projected as a 2026 first-round NFL pick. Cantwell could have a similar trajectory as Mauigoa in that he is a plug-and-play addition that experiences some early challenges but continues to develop into a key piece of the unit and an eventual NFL prospect. — Haubert

Chris Henry Jr., WR

2026 ESPN 300 ranking: 4

School/Hometown: Mater Dei/Santa Ana, California

Committed to: Ohio State Buckeyes

Background: The son of late Cincinnati Bengals wide receiver Chris Henry, Chris Henry Jr. has been committed since July 2023, longer than any other prospect within the 2026 ESPN 300.

A knee injury sidelined Henry for the majority of his junior campaign, but he proved himself as an elite playmaker in his last complete season, when he totaled 71 catches for 1,127 receiving yards and 10 touchdowns as a sophomore at Withrow (Ohio) High School in 2023. Initially set for official visits to Ohio State, Miami, Oregon and USC this spring, Henry shut down his recruitment April 1.

Scout’s take: To best maximize his traits, the Buckeyes will need to deploy Henry on the outside. He’s a one-on-one matchup problem on 50-50 balls whom Ohio State can maximize — particularly in the red zone. Even when covered, he isn’t really covered. Few wide receivers 6-foot-5 or taller can move, shake and produce after the catch like Henry. He shows an amazing run-and-catch aspect in the vertical passing game. Henry’s long arms and ability to elevate in traffic create distinct advantages on jump balls. His twitchiness is very similar to that of Bengals wide receiver Tee Higgins and sets him apart from other receivers at this size. — Tom Luginbill

Jared Curtis, QB

2026 ESPN 300 ranking: 5

School/Hometown: Nashville, Tennessee/Nashville Christian

Committed to: Georgia Bulldogs

Background: Initially committed to Georgia in March 2024, Curtis took a winding road back to the Bulldogs’ 2026 class after he pulled his pledge and reopened his recruitment last October.

Alabama, Auburn, Georgia, Ohio State, Oregon and South Carolina were all involved in Curtis’ process earlier this year. Curtis narrowed his options to the Bulldogs and Ducks in February, ultimately closing his recruitment with a series of visits and in-home meetings with both programs this spring prior to his May 5 announcement. In the 6-foot-4, 225-pound passer, coach Kirby Smart once again has the cycle’s top quarterback and a potential cornerstone for the program’s future under center.

Scout’s take: Curtis will join a QB room at Georgia that is loaded with former ranked prospects and his move will likely send one or more of those players to the transfer portal. Curtis has ideal size at 6-3, 222 pounds and has tracked at 18.5 MPH Max Speed which is impressive for someone his size. His measurable standard in every category tested meets or exceeds every measure you’d like to have in a QB prospect.

He has natural arm power, which is his best trait, and he makes throws from a lot of different arm angles. He has been clocked at a 4.8 40. He can be a crafty runner and use his athleticism, smarts and arm talent to make throws in and out of the pocket. — Luginbill

Dia Bell, QB

2026 ESPN 300 ranking: 6

School/Hometown: American Heritage/Plantation, Florida

Committed to: Texas Longhorns

Background: Bell, the son of 12-year NBA veteran Raja Bell, is the longest-tenured member of the Longhorns’ 2026 class. He has been locked in with Texas since he committed in June 2024 following a series of visits with the program last spring.

A three-year starter at American Heritage, Bell threw for 2,597 yards and 29 touchdowns with a 70.6% completion percentage as a junior last fall before suffering a season-ending leg injury. Despite flip efforts from Alabama, Arkansas, Georgia and LSU earlier this year, Bell’s sights remain set on signing with the Longhorns and coach Steve Sarkisian in December.

Scout’s take: Hopefully Bell takes a page out of Arch Manning’s development blueprint when it comes to patience and focus. He’s going to only get bigger, stronger and more mature without being thrown into the fire right away. Bell’s fit is quite similar to what Manning brought to the Longhorns. He’s a naturally gifted passer who is a better athlete and runner than Quinn Ewers and gives the Longhorns another player they can develop. Bell has continually performed at a high level against top high school competition and should be ready to make the leap to the next level. — Luginbill

Faizon Brandon, QB

2026 ESPN 300 ranking: 8

School/Hometown: Grimsley High School/Greensboro, North Carolina

Committed to: Tennessee Volunteers

Background: Brandon committed to the Vols last August before totaling 2,159 passing yards and 27 touchdowns with one interception as a junior at Grimsley last fall.

Brandon remains in near-daily contact with the Tennessee staff and has not engaged with other programs in 2025. He is focused instead on helping recruit a 2026 Vols class that already includes ESPN 300 pass catchers in wide receiver Tyreek King and tight end Carson Sneed. Brandon will take his official visit to Tennessee on June 20.

Scout’s take: The departure of Nico Iamaleava could allow Brandon to battle for the starting job sooner rather than later in a very quarterback-friendly system. Several recent Volunteers quarterbacks have similar stature, athleticism and arm strength. Brandon is more advanced than Hendon Hooker at the same stage and the pair share several traits. Brandon is also much more accurate than Joe Milton. While he lacks Iamaleava’s polish at this stage, Brandon throws an exceptional deep ball, which is a requirement in this scheme that loves to attack vertically. — Luginbill

JaReylan McCoy, DE

2026 ESPN 300 ranking: 9

School/Hometown: Tupelo High School/Tupelo, Mississippi

Committed to: Florida Gators

Background: ESPN’s No. 2 defender in the 2026 class has logged 18.5 sacks and more than 140 total tackles over three varsity seasons. If he signs with the Gators in December, he’ll represent Florida’s highest-ranked defensive addition in more than a decade.

McCoy initially committed to LSU earlier this year before reopening his recruitment in February. He trimmed his list of finalists to Florida, LSU and Texas last month, then sealed his commitment to the Gators across a pair of visits with the program between May 30 and June 14. McCoy will join former No. 10 overall prospect L.J. McCray as the program’s second five-star defensive end when he arrives on campus in 2026.

Scout’s take: The Gators finished last season strong, creating optimism for 2025 and beyond in the Billy Napier era. Part of the strong close was improved defensive play, and while further improvement and more consistency is needed among its front, Florida is stacking some excellent young talent to further fuel the excitement.

Former ESPN 300 edge rusher signees Tyreak Sapp and Kamran James should help fuel their ascension, but defenders more recently added can boost this unit to another level. The hope is that McCray, a five-star in the 2024 class, will break out and several new high-ceiling D-line signings — including No. 6 DE Jalen Wiggins — can get involved.

Florida is stopping there and now add to the mix another five-star defender in McCoy. A breakout performer during the Under Armour All-America week this past January, that setting showcased his impact ability. He has elite length with a big frame and has demonstrated a competitive “alpha dog” nature and plays with a motor. He has also shown good practice habits and all those traits are accentuated with his excellent physical tools. He moves well with good flexibility and has excelled in combine testing situations. He can develop into an disruptive, top pass rusher but can also play the run and be a factor in pursuit with his mobility.

McCoy has shown all the tools, that with continued positive progress, would align with past top SEC defenders. With his build, size and competitiveness, he can offer versatility as he can pair with McCray at the Edge spot initially but could also play inside at DT.

Tristen Keys, WR

2026 ESPN 300 ranking: 10

School/Hometown: Hattiesburg/Hattiesburg, Mississippi

Committed to: LSU Tigers

Background: Keys, ESPN’s No. 2 wide receiver prospect, committed to LSU over Alabama, Tennessee and Texas A&M on March 19. He enters late spring as the Tigers’ top-ranked commit and the leader atop one of the nation’s deepest wide receiver classes alongside fellow ESPN 300 pass catchers and LSU pledges Jabari Mack, Jakai Anderson and Kenny Darby.

However, Keys’ recruitment might not be over. The 6-foot-3, 190-pound receiver followed his commitment to LSU with visits to Ole Miss, Auburn and Miami, and Keys is still expected to take a handful of officials later this spring as perhaps the top flip candidate among the committed five-star prospects in the 2026 class.

Scout’s take: Even if he’s not an elite runner, Keys’ combination of size, range and ball skills is unmatched. Former LSU receiver Brandon LaFell is a favorable comparison. The Tigers can use Keys’ length, long arms and physicality to create matchup headaches for defenses either inside or outside. Keys has great body control and coordination on jump balls, making him a dangerous threat even when covered. He won’t win a lot of open-field foot races, but Keys could develop into a go-to option if utilized in the slot against zone coverages or on the outside for deep balls. — Luginbill

2026 ESPN 300 ranking: 11

School/Hometown: Reidsville/Reidsville, North Carolina

Committed to: Oregon Ducks

Background: Harrison kept a recruiting profile after he committed to Oregon over Tennessee, North Carolina, Miami, Penn State and Florida State before officially shutting down his recruitment in March.

A two-sport star who is committed to play basketball with the Ducks, Harrison remains the top-ranked member of an Oregon recruiting class that has lost four top-150 pledges since mid-February. Harrison, North Carolina’s second-ranked recruit in 2026, will be back on campus for an official visit with the Ducks in June.

Scout’s take: The tight end position played a pivotal role in Oregon fielding one of college football’s best passing attacks in 2024, with Terrance Ferguson hauling in 43 catches. While Harrison won’t arrive for another season, he’ll help the Ducks reload at that spot and could supply even greater big-play ability.

For Ferguson, the presence of Tez Johnson and Evan Stewart opened up more room to operate. Oregon’s high-level recruiting should allow Harrison to enjoy a similar situation playing alongside No. 1 wide receiver Dakorien Moore. An excellent basketball player, the 6-foot-6 Harrison has elite height, length and a massive catch radius. Much like former basketball-to-football standouts Jimmy Graham, Antonio Gates and Julius Thomas, Harrison can high-point the ball and box out defenders in contested situations, giving Oregon another dangerous playmaker in the passing game. — Haubert

Brandon Arrington, ATH

2026 ESPN 300 ranking: 14

School/Hometown: Mount Miguel High School/Spring Valley, California

Committed to: Texas A&M Aggies

Background: Considered among the fastest prospects in the 2026 cycle, Arrington landed as the cornerstone pledge of an increasingly deep Texas A&M recruiting class.

Arrington, a 6-foot-1 sprinter from outside of San Diego, visited Penn State, Washington, Texas A&M, Alabama and Oregon before narrowing his recruitment to the Aggies and Ducks. With a combination of height, length and speed that Texas A&M coaches have compared to the build of former All-SEC cornerback Will Lee, Arrington carries the potential to develop into a first-round caliber defensive back at the next level. If he ultimately lands with the Aggies later this year, he’ll join as the program’s highest-ranked signee under coach Mike Elko and its top addition since defensive tackle David Hicks (No. 8) in the 2023 class.

Scout’s take: Arrington brings a lot of the same traits that Jaylen Mbakwe brought to Alabama last fall. He’s a dynamic athlete who could play multiple positions but projects best on defense because of his length and elite level speed. Texas A&M is getting a smooth, fluid playmaker with excellent ball skills that should be able to find him a spot in the rotation sooner rather than later given his mature skill set and the fact he plays at a premium position that every program in America covets.

Outside of Dezz Ricks, the majority of the depth, including starters at corner, are all upperclassman. Arrington is going to have to fight and scrap to prove that he’s mature enough to make the jump because he’s more than ready from a talent perspective. — Luginbill

Elbert Hill, CB

2026 ESPN 300 ranking: 15

School/Hometown: Archbishop Hoban/Akron, Ohio

Committed to: USC Trojans

Background: ESPN’s No. 1 cornerback prospect followed five-star offensive tackle Keenyi Pepe as the second five-star pledge in Trojans coach Lincoln Riley’s star-studded 2026 class.

Hill grew up two hours northeast of Ohio State and visited the in-state Buckeyes along with Alabama, Oregon and USC earlier this spring. But no program pushed harder to land Hill than the Trojans, who secured his pledge after a second spring visit to Southern California over the last weekend of April. As things stands, Hill is the highest-ranked pledge in the nation’s deepest recruiting class and sits as the top prospect committed to an impressive USC defensive class in 2026.

Scout’s take: Hill is a total football player and very dynamic. He has grown almost two inches over the last few years, and is now 5-11, which has greatly enhanced his value on the perimeter. He’s a leaper as well allowing him to mask some height deficiencies. He plays on both sides of the ball with tremendous ball and playmaker skills. Hill also has elite speed, posting a 4.4 laser 40 and 21.3 mph max speed. He reminds us of former USC standout Adoree Jackson, another smooth and quick footed shutdown corner. He could even be an option on offense. He’s a premier player at a premium position and USC is continuing to make strides on defense. — Luginbill

Keisean Henderson, ATH

2026 ESPN 300 ranking: 16

School/Hometown: Legacy the School of Sports Sciences/Spring Creek, Texas

Committed to: Houston Cougars

Background: Henderson stands among the most intriguing quarterback prospects in the 2026 cycle and remains the subject of flip efforts from some of the nation’s top programs despite his long-standing pledge to Houston, situated roughly 28 miles from his home.

Committed to the Cougars since May 27, 2024, Henderson has repeatedly emphasized his intention to stick with Houston this spring. But those public rebuffs have not stopped programs such as Alabama, Auburn, Florida State, Georgia, Ohio State and Oregon from keeping in touch in recent months, and Henderson’s recruitment certainly remains one to watch as the 2026 quarterback market plays out from now to the early signing period.

Scout’s take: It’s unclear whether Henderson pans out at quarterback or another position. His fundamentals are raw, but he’s very competitive and productive. Henderson is similar to Duke transfer quarterback Darian Mensah, who was recruited by coach Willie Fritz to Tulane before Fritz took the Houston job. Landing Henderson is a significant pickup for the Cougars, even if he’s not polished enough to make an immediate impact. He’s a developmental player who needs more consistency in the passing game and more downfield arm strength. Henderson builds toward his top-end speed as opposed to being initially explosive. He has hit 20.6 mph on tape, which is a great time for a quarterback. Henderson has a high ceiling regardless of his position. — Luginbill

Keenyi Pepe, OT

2026 ESPN 300 ranking: 17

School/Hometown: IMG Academy/Bradenton, Florida

Committed to: USC Trojans

Background: Originally from Long Beach California, the 6-foot-7, 325-pound offensive tackle from Florida’s IMG Academy is set for a return to Southern California as the top-ranked pledge in coach Lincoln Riley’s 2026 class at USC.

Pepe is one of four offensive tackles among 2026’s five-star prospects. He took over as the starting left tackle at IMG Academy during his junior season last fall and stiff-armed the likes of Florida, Georgia, Miami and Texas to join the Trojans’ incoming class, where he projects as a potentially foundational piece for the future on the offensive line.

Keenyi Pepe adds another impressive building block to USC’s OL class. UA Next

Scout’s take: Now a member of the Big Ten, USC is working to strengthen its roster in the trenches. The Trojans’ 2026 class already has double-digit commitments along the offensive and defensive lines. Now, Pepe becomes the highest-ranked player in the class. There will be some turnover of the offensive line heading into the 2025 season with redshirt sophomore Elijah Paige returning at left tackle. Aaron Dunn and Alex Payne, both 2025 linemen ranked in the ESPN 300, come in with the 2025 class to provide young depth at least. Combine them with Pepe in the 2026 class, and USC has retooled its offensive line with some impactful recruits.

Coming out of IMG, Pepe is a prospect who has faced strong competition in practice and games. He gives the Trojans a big man who can play a key role early in his career much like Paige, who stepped in as a starter as a redshirt freshman last season. Pepe is a massive presence at roughly 6-foot-7 and 320 pounds with excellent arm length. He is more than just a big body as he is also light on his feet for his size and has good flexibility. He can continue to work on and be more consistent in some technical areas but demonstrated as a junior at the Under Armour All-America game that he is competitive, wants to learn and get better and can match up and battle against elite edge rushers. Pepe has the tools to be a starter and anchor the Trojans OL and could end up being a nice replacement for Paige at left tackle in the future. — Haubert

Richard Wesley, DE

2026 ESPN 300 ranking: 18

School/Hometown: Sierra Canyon High School/Chatsworth, California

Committed to: Texas Longhorns

Background: Briefly committed to Oregon in May, Wesley found a new home when he committed to the Longhorns on June 22 shortly after wrapping an official visit with the program. Wesley, a 6-foot-5, 250-pound pass rusher from Chatsworth, California, entered the ESPN 300 as a five-star prospect and the nation’s No. 3 defensive end upon reclassifying from the 2027 cycle in March. He made unofficial visits to Ohio State, Oregon, Tennessee, Texas, Texas A&M and USC this spring before scheduling officials with Oregon and Texas in June. Upon his commitment, he joined five-star Longhorns quarterback Dia Bell (No. 6 overall) commit as Texas’ second five-star pledge in 2026.

Scout’s take: Wesley has the most impact potential of any defensive line prospect coming out of the Southern California area since Kayvon Thibodeaux in 2019. He will join a talented D-line group in Texas’ 2026 class. Headed to the SEC, he reminds us of a former disruptive defender in that conference — former Ole Miss standout Robert Nkemdiche.

Wesley has more ideal length but is a well put-together prospect with a nice blend of height and bulk. He can bring versatility in how he’s used, with the ability to play on the edge and also produce inside and exploit favorable matchups with his blend of power and quickness.

He reclassified from 2027 class to 2026 and when you see him in-person, it is clear he is able physically to make that jump and be ready to move onto college. He could be a quick contributor as well. He can continue to further improve flexibility, but he is an explosive defender with active and heavy hands who can attack with speed and power as a pass rusher and be able to set the edge.

With national championship aspirations, the Longhorns turned to the transfer portal to restock their defensive line for 2025, but the future of this unit will be driven by youth with players like Wesley.

His arrival is set to overlap with current standout edge defender Colin Simmons, whose presence could help Wesley ease into a role while still contributing and having an impact like Simmons did as a freshman in 2024. He could also pair nicely with 2025 signee five-star Justus Terry, who is in a similar mold to Wesley and the two could form a formidable pair for a defensive line unit that is adding the pieces to become one of the most talented in all of college football over the next few years. — Haubert

After finishing strong with a successful 2025 recruiting class, Florida football is in the process of putting together another solid class for 2026.

The Florida Gators landed a pledge from another offensive lineman this week, getting three-star interior offensive lineman Desmond Green to commit to UF on June 26.

Florida is at 14 commitments as of June 27. Per 247Sports.com, UF’s class ranks 12th nationally, with four four-starts and 10 three-stars.

Florida has more to sell in the direction of the program under fourth-year coach Billy Napier, after the Gators finished the 2024 season 8-5, posting their first winning record since 2020. Last December, Florida’ landed a 2025 class that ranked seventh nationally, per 247Sports. Several memebers of the class enrolled early and some flashed in UF’s spring game, including wide receiver Dallas Wilson (10 catches,195 yards, 2 TDs), linebacker Ty Jackson (12 tackles) and safety Drake Stubbs (nine tackles, one interception).

Here’s a look at UF’s 2026 class and potential targets:

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Florida football 2026 commitments

Will Griffin, QB

School: Tampa Jesuit

Height, Weight: 6-foot-3, 230 pounds

2024 Stats: 186 of 286, 2,213 yards, 24 TDs, 4 INTs, 37 carries, 240 yards, 5 TDs (MaxPreps)

Honors: 2025 Under Armour All-America Game

USA Today Florida Network Ranking: No. 43 (No. 4 quarterback)

USA Today Florida Network Star Rating: 3 ★★★

USA Today Florida Network grade: 88

247Sports Composite: 4 star, No. 44 player in Florida, No. 15 QB in the nation

Scouting report:Griffin is a muscular quarterback with an SEC frame, which is why the Gators offered him after his freshman season. The four-year starter will likely eclipse 10,000 career passing yards before the start of September. He has a cannon of an arm and shows good poise while under pressure.

Courtesy of Gannett Florida USA Today recruiting database

Chancellor Campbel OT

School: St. Pete Lakewood

Height, Weight: 6-8, 295 pounds

2024 Stats: N/A

USA Today Florida Network Ranking: No. 70 (No. 6 offensive tackle)

USA Today Florida Network Star Rating: 3 ★★★

USA Today Florida Network grade: 86.25

247Sports Composite: 3-star, No. 85 player in Florida, No. 49 OT in the nation

Scouting report: Few offensive linemen boosted their stock at the Under Armour Next camp in Orlando like Campbell. Standing at 6-8 and nearly 300 pounds, his frame and technique have made him a priority for schools like Miami and Penn State. He’s extremely mobile, and his footwork is sound.

Courtesy of Gannett Florida USA Today recruiting database

G’Nivre Carr IOL

School: IMG Academy

Height, Weight: 6-4, 336 pounds

2024 Stats: N/A

USA Today Florida Network Ranking: No. 72 (No. 7 interior offensive lineman)

USA Today Florida Network Star Rating: 3 ★★★

USA Today Florida Network grade: 87.25

247Sports Composite: 4-star, No. 59 player in Florida, No. 39 IOL in the nation

Scouting report:Carr is a mobile blocker with active hands and quick feet. He has an above-average wingspan and great strength. He’s quick off the line and is an effective blocker, plus has the size to compete for time on the field quickly.

Courtesy of Gannett Florida USA Today recruiting database

Kaiden Hall S

School: Milton

Height, Weight: 6-3, 195 pounds

2024 Stats: 28 carries, 161 rushing yards, 2 rushing TDs, 8 catches, 80 receiving yards, 32 tackles, 3 TFL (MaxPreps)

USA Today Florida Network Ranking: No. 23 (No. 1 ATH)

USA Today Florida Network Star Rating: 4 ★★★★

USA Today Florida Network grade: 91.5

247Sports Composite: 4-star, No. 24 player in Florida, No. 14 safety in the country

Scouting report:Hall displays an incredible understanding of his position whichever it is on the field. He has arguably the best run support of any safety in the class, elite size that makes him a dangerous receiver. He’s very physical, and his explosiveness is a real plus.

Courtesy of Gannett Florida USA Today recruiting database

Justin Williams WR/RB

School: Gainesville Buchholz

Height, Weight: 5-11, 190 pounds

2024 Stats: 108 carries, 1,023 yards, 16 TDs, 85 catches, 1,473 yards, 13 TDs (MaxPreps)

Honors: Gainesville Sun All-Area Big School OPOY

USA Today Florida Network Ranking: No. 49 (No. 3 running back)

USA Today Florida Network Star Rating: 3 ★★★

USA Today Florida Network grade: 88.75

247Sports Composite: 4 star, No. 37 player in Florida, No. 15 ATH in the nation

Scouting report:Williams tallied 2,534 yards of offense while throwing just one single pass at Buchholz. His second gear is special, and he’s very shifty with the ball in his hands. While his route-running as a receiver isn’t eye popping, his separation and balance are. When the ball finds William’s hands, odds are that the sticks will be moving.

Courtesy of Gannett Florida USA Today recruiting database

Jamir Perez DL

Height/Weight: 6-4, 360

School/Hometown: Glenville HS/Cleveland, Ohio

Rating: Three-star

The Skinny: Perez rates at the 72nd best defensive lineman nationally and 27th-best player in Ohio, per 247Sports. He chose Florida over offers from Ohio State, Purdue, Akron and Alabama

Kekua Aumua TE

Height/Weight: 6-5, 255

School/Hometown: IMG Academy Bradenton/Kahuku, Hawaii

Rating: Three-star

The Skinny: Nicknamed “Rhino,” Aumua is rated as the 32nd-best prospect nationally and 70th-best player in Florida. He chose UF over offers from North Carolina, California, Washington and Ohio State.

Carsyn Baker RB

Height/Weight: 6-1, 195

School/Hometown: Langston Hughes HS/Fairburn, Ga.

Rating: Four-star

The Skinny: Rushed for 1,282 yards and 13 TDs as a junior at Langston Hughes HS. Chose Florida over offers from South Carolina, Florida State, Alabama and Auburn.

Marquez Daniel. WR

Height/Weight: 6-5, 195

School/Hometown: Booker T. Washington HS/Tuskegee, Ala.

Rating: Four-star

The Skinny: Caught 38 passes for 757 yards and 12 TDs in his junior year at Booker T. Washington HS. Chose Florida over offers from Miami, Kentucky, Louisville and LSU.

JaReylan McCoy, DE

Height/Weight: 6-6, 245

School/Hometown: Tupelo HS/Tupelo, Miss.

Rating: Four-star

The Skinny: Recorded 30 tackles (7.5 tackles for loss), 4 quarterback hurries and 1.5 sacks to help lead Tupelo High to the Mississippi Class 6A state championship. Chose Florida over offers from LSU, Ole Miss, Alabama and Alcorn State.

Javarii Luckas OT

School: Glades Central

Commitment: Florida

Height, Weight: 6-5, 305 pounds

2024 Stats: 10 pancake blocks, 1 tackle (MaxPreps)

USA Today Florida Network Star Rating: 3 ★★★

USA Today Florida Network grade: 84.25

247Sports Composite: N/A

Scouting report: Luckas is a project of a prospect. His size is undeniable, but his strength, movement, and technique are not to the level of his peers yet. The foundations are there, but he struggles to handle even smaller defenders and takes a while to generate momentum from his base.

Courtesy of Gannett Florida USA Today recruiting database

Tyler Chukuyem, OT

Height/Weight: 6-6, 290

School/Hometown: South Palding HS/Douglasville, Ga.

Rating: Three-star

The Skinny: Rated as the 36th-best tackle and 554th-best prospect in the 2026 class, per 247Sports. Chose Florida over offers from Florida State, Cincinnati, Ole Miss and Appalachian State.

CJ Bronaugh

School: Windermere

Height, Weight: 6-1, 166 pounds

2024 Stats: 30 tackles, 3 TFL, 2 sacks, 6 INTs, 4 passes defended, 1 FF, 1 blocked kick (MaxPreps)

Honors: 2025 Under Armour Next Camp DB MVP (Orlando)

USA Today Florida Network Ranking: No. 22 (No. 3 cornerback)

USA Today Florida Network Star Rating: 4 ★★★★

USA Today Florida Network grade: 89.25

247Sports Composite: 4-star, No. 12 player in Florida, No. 12 CB in the nation

Scouting report: Nobody in the state has boosted their stock this offseason like Bronaugh has. The Huskers will do everything in their power to hold on to Bronaugh, who has reeled in offers from Miami, Oregon, Florida, and North Carolina since the start of the new year. His electric speed is his biggest plus. He is a state champion track athlete, and ran a 4.39 40-yard dash at UA Next Orlando while dominating matchups in 1-on-1 drills. He’s a ball-hawk that baits and punishes bad throws.

Courtesy of Gannett Florida USA Today recruiting database

Desmond Green, OL

Height/Weight: 6-5, 354

School/Hometown: Timberland HS/St. Stephen, S.C.

Rating: Three-star

The Skinny: Rated as the 90th-best interior offensive lineman and 393rd-best prospect in the 2026 class, per 247Sports. Chose Florida over offers from South Carolina, Georgia, Oklahoma and Virginia Tech.

Potential targets for Florida football 2026 class

Valdin Stone DT

A four-star recruit from Blue Ridge School in Dyke, Va., the 6-3, 316-pound Stone has taken two unofficial visits for UF. A four-star recruit, Stone is rated as the 45th best player in the 2026 class and fourth-best interior defensive lineman. He’s also got offers from Georgia, Oklahoma, Nebraska and Auburn.

Somourian Wingo WR

A four-star recruit from nearby St. Augustine High School. the 6-2, 180-pound Wingo visited Florida in early June. Wingo caught 65 passes for 1,040 yards (16.8 ypc) and 12 TDs as a junior. He also has offers from South Carolina, Alabama, Miami and Coastal Carolina and says he doesn’t intend to announce his commitment until late July, early August.

Kaiden Prothro TE

A five-star tight end from Bowdon High School in Bowdon, Ga., Prothro has Florida in his final three with Georgia and Texas, At Bowdon last season, the 6-6, 210-pound Prothro caught 56 passes for 1,203 yards and 22 TD. He will announce his commitment on July 12.

Kevin Brockway is The Gainesville Sun’s Florida beat writer. Contact him at kbrockway@gannett.com. Follow him on X @KevinBrockwayG1. Read his coverage of the Gators’ national championship basketball season in “CHOMP-IONS!” — a hardcover coffee-table collector’s book from The Sun. Details at Florida.ChampsBook.com

This story was updated to provide new information.

Florida, Billy Napier Land Major Recruiting Win On Tuesday originally appeared on Athlon Sports.

Head coach Billy Napier and the Florida Gators have picked up some steam on the recruiting trail thanks to a key addition on Tuesday.

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The Gators are coming off their first top-10 class under Napier in the 2025 cycle after an 8-5 finish last season, the best output under Napier as he enters his fourth season at the helm in Gainesville.

Despite the promising trajectory for the program, Florida hasn’t made the splash in the 2026 recruiting cycle just yet. Tuesday’s news, however, is a step in the right direction, as four-star safety Kaiden Hall announced his pledge to the Gators.

Hall (6-foot-3, 200 pounds) is a two-way star Milton (Florida) High School. The highly-touted recruit received snaps at defensive back and quarterback/wide receiver as a junior last season.

Milton High School’s Kaiden Hall Tony Giberson/tgiberson@pnj.com / USA TODAY NETWORK

Hall totaled 32 tackles (3 for loss) on defense while adding 161 rushing yards and two touchdowns with eight receptions for 80 yards on offense in seven games.

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Florida was in competition for Hall with Florida State, Oklahoma and Alabama.

Before he took an official visit to the Gators over the weekend, Hall unofficially visited head coach Kalen DeBoer’s Crimson Tide in March and went on to name Alabama his leader.

But it was the Gators that fought off the SEC foe and in-state rival Florida State for Hall’s pledge. He ranks as the No. 6 safety, the No. 17 player in the state and the No. 125 recruit overall in his class (Rivals).

Hall joins three other Florida commits in the 2026 cycle, including four-star quarterback Will Griffin, three-star offensive lineman G’Nivre Carr and three-star defensive lineman Jamir Perez.

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There summer period will be a crucial time for Florida to gain some more ground on the recruiting trail as the top recruits in the country take official visits.

Related: Nation’s No. 1 LB Reacts To Clemson Official Visit As Georgia Leads Recruiting Battle

Related: Greg McElroy Didn’t Hesitate When Naming The Best Defense In College Football

This story was originally reported by Athlon Sports on Jun 3, 2025, where it first appeared.