College football’s 2023 recruiting cycle has come to a close, as the top remaining ESPN 300 prospect on the board, TE Duce Robinson (No. 40), made his commitment known nearly two months after the late signing period when he committed to USC.
Alabama finished with the top-ranked class for the eighth time under Nick Saban. The Crimson Tide landed 23 ESPN 300 recruits and, as of now, are in contention for one of the strongest recruiting classes ever.
Robinson’s late addition helped USC finish in the top 10 overall and strengthened an already impressive haul of offensive force that contains three five-star players: QB Malachi Nelson, WR Zachariah Branch and WR Makai Lemon. Robinson, who also plans to pursue baseball, gives the Trojans a big, powerful target who can present matchup issues for opposing defenses.
Oregon landed speedy four-star cornerback Rodrick Pleasant to close signing day atop the Pac-12, but the Ducks weren’t the only team in the conference to climb on Wednesday. Arizona State, looking to start fresh and rebuild with Kenny Dillingham as the new head coach, scored its first statement win on the recruiting trail by landing ESPN 300 QB Jaden Rashada.
The former Florida signee, who was released from his national letter of intent with the Gators after a reported $13.5 million name, image, likeness deal with a collective fell through, decided to stay out West. He gives the Sun Devils a passer with a smooth release, a nice deep ball and still promising developmental upside. His addition, along with some good three-star pickups in the trenches, have helped the Sun Devils to jump up into the top 50.
While many familiar names are among the top classes, newer coaches are making an impact. Several coaches completed their first full recruiting cycle inside the top 10, including Oklahoma‘s Brent Venables, Miami‘s Mario Cristobal and Notre Dame‘s Marcus Freeman.
Other coaches like Dillingham, just coming on board, wasted no time elevating their classes as well. Deion Sanders already has made an impression since being hired in December at Colorado, including flipping five-star CB Cormani McClain in the final month to help the Buffaloes rise into the top 25.
Matt Rhule at Nebraska is another new hire quickly showcasing what he can do on the recruiting trail. Leading up to national signing day, the Cornhuskers have strengthened class depth with multiple quality three-star additions, led by WR Demitrius Bell, and now they also sit inside the top 25.
Last updated: Thursday, 6 p.m. ET
ESPN 300 commits: 23 | Previous ranking (Feb. 1): 1 
SEC rank: 1 of 14
Top offensive commit: OT Kadyn Proctor (No. 10)
Top defensive commit: OLB Jaquavious Russaw (No. 9)
The Crimson Tide put together the best class in the nation. They bolstered the front seven with explosive playmakers Russaw and James Smith, two top-25 teammates from in-state Carver High School. They landed some impressive talent to their secondary with Jahlil Hurley, an agile and smooth corner with good length. Caleb Downs is the No. 1 safety and can provide a physical presence with his aggressive, hard-hitting style of play. Yhonzae Pierre might not initially have been among the most touted names in this class, but his ranking has risen throughout the fall and he gives this class another potential impact defender, as he is quick and flexible and can be a disruptive edge defender. Keon Keeley was a big addition right before the start of the early signing period and gives the Tide a lengthy edge defender who can be a menacing pass-rushing presence. On offense they have worked to address a need on the offensive line with several commits led by five-star OT Proctor. A potential plug-and-play addition, he possesses excellent size, flexibility and agility with good toughness. The Tide landed the top two running back prospects in the nation in Richard Young, an explosive and versatile back out of Florida, and Justice Haynes, who rushed for over 2,000 yards as a junior, out of Georgia. The Tide prepped for Bryce Young‘s declaration for the draft by landing two ESPN 300 QBs. Eli Holstein, a onetime Texas A&M commit, is an accurate passer with good arm strength and mobility for his size (6-foot-4, 225 pounds). Dylan Lonergan, who is also a very talented baseball prospect, is a poised and promising QB as well.
ESPN 300 commits: 21 | Previous ranking: 2
SEC rank: 2 of 14
Top offensive commit: OT Monroe Freeling (No. 56)
Top defensive commit: LB Raylen Wilson (No. 15)
The two-time defending national champions signed a seventh straight top-three class. Located in a talent-rich state, the Bulldogs did well at home with commitments from a few of the top prospects in Georgia, including OT Bo Hughley. During their title runs, the Bulldogs got great production from underclassman tight end Brock Bowers, and they are now adding young talent to that position with commitments from ESPN 300 TEs Pearce Spurlin and Lawson Luckie. Their championship defense was popular during the 2022 NFL draft, with five members selected in the first round, and the Dawgs are continuing to restock that unit with talent. They addressed their need along the edge in a big way, led by versatile and powerful Samuel M’Pemba and explosive pass-rusher Damon Wilson. LB Raylen Wilson can quickly close on ball carriers and has plug-and-play potential. They’ve done a really nice job in the secondary with multiple commitments from ESPN 300 DBs. At corner, they’ve added A.J. Harris, Justyn Rhett and Chris Peal, and they landed one of the top safety prospects in Joenel Aguero, an aggressive player with good speed.
ESPN 300 commits: 14 | Previous ranking: 3
Big 12 rank: 1 of 10
Top offensive commit: QB Arch Manning (No. 5)
Top defensive commit: LB Anthony Hill (No. 16)
Steve Sarkisian secured a huge win for Texas’ recruiting, beating Georgia and Alabama for the highly touted five-star Manning. The talented QB is a polished player at the position with good arm strength and competitive toughness — all of which would be expected from a Manning — but he will also bring good mobility to keep plays alive and be able to pick up yards with his legs. Manning was a key out-of-state pickup, but Texas also landed some top in-state prospects, namely ESPN 300 WR Johntay Cook II, a quick, smooth pass-catcher who came on board soon after Manning’s commitment. Ryan Niblett can be a nice target for Manning as well, as he can be a big-play threat with his outstanding speed. The Longhorns also added some promising defensive talent, including a five-star on that side of the ball as well in Hill. A smooth, but tough defender that can make plays from sideline-to-sideline. Top-10 CB Malik Muhammad and Derek Williams — a safety with good length and range, highlight talented additions to the secondary. Along the defensive line, DT Sydir Mitchell is a big powerful presence that can stuff the run and can also bend and move well, making him a handful in the trenches.
ESPN 300 commits: 13 | Previous ranking: 4
Big 12 rank: 2 of 10
Top offensive commit: QB Jackson Arnold (No. 3)
Top defensive commit: S Peyton Bowen (No. 17)
The Sooners took a hit when five-star QB Malachi Nelson decommitted and followed Lincoln Riley to USC. New coach Brent Venables and his staff rebounded, though, in landing Arnold, a five-star QB who has a smooth, compact delivery as well as good pocket mobility. They also have a few promising targets in the passing game on board in ESPN 300 WR Keyon Brown, who has a good blend of height and speed, and Jaquaize Pettaway, who could be an immediate contributor with great hands and sharp route-running abilities. One of the top in-state prospects, Erik McCarty, is staying close to home and is a versatile player who could contribute on either side of the ball for the Sooners. ATH Jacobe Johnson, the top-ranked player in the state, brings tremendous versatility and projects to the secondary. It took patience, but before the signing period was over, they reeled in five-star safety Bowen, one of the fastest players in the class. He brings tremendous range and big-play ability and can also be a factor in the return game. The Sooners have multiple ESPN 300 defenders on the front seven, including Derrick LeBlanc and Adepoju Adebawore, a promising addition. Known by his nickname PJ, Adebawore tested extremely well this spring at the Kansas City Elite Underclassmen camp, and with further development, his blend of speed, agility and initial quickness can allow him to be a well-rounded and highly productive defender.
ESPN 300 commits: 15 | Previous ranking: 5
ACC rank: 1 of 14
Top offensive commit: OT Francis Mauigoa (No. 6)
Top defensive commit: DE Rueben Bain (No. 69)
Mario Cristobal returned to his alma mater and assembled a top-five class in his first full cycle. Keeping top DL talent at home is a must, and the Hurricanes did that with outstanding Miami Central DL Rueben Bain, who is a quick, disruptive presence who notched three sacks in a win against IMG this season. Jayden Wayne was another nice in-state defensive addition, as he’s a rangy edge player who will only improve as he fills out and gets stronger. While the loss of five-star Cormani McClain was a tough blow, the Hurricanes still got a nice addition in the secondary who could contribute quickly in CB Damari Brown out of South Florida powerhouse American Heritage. Other notable additions at home include Robby Washington and Nathaniel Joseph, two undersized but potentially dangerous playmakers, especially when they get in space. Miami has a strong tradition at the TE position, and Cristobal returned to his old stomping grounds of the Pacific Northwest to land one of the top TE prospects in Riley Williams, who played his senior season at IMG Academy. A lengthy TE with a nice catch radius and the ability to win contested matchups, he could be a quick contributor to Miami’s offense. Looking to dominate in the offensive trenches, the Hurricanes have pulled a pair of five-star OLs in Mauigoa and Samson Okunlola. Mauigoa is a powerful and explosive big man who still has room to grow as a player, and Okunlola, also a talented wrestler, is a big man with excellent flexibility and balance.
ESPN 300 commits: 15 | Previous ranking: 6
SEC rank: 3 of 14
Top offensive commit: OT Zalance Heard (No. 51)
Top defensive commit: CB Javien Toviano (No. 41)
A key for Brian Kelly will be keeping the Tigers an in-state recruiting power. They secured the No. 1 wideout in Louisiana in Shelton Sampson Jr. as well as the top two in-state RBs, Kaleb Jackson and Trey Holly; and while ESPN 300 QB Rickie Collins was initially headed elsewhere, they ended up keeping the one-time Purdue commit at home. Out of state, they pulled from Texas ESPN 300 DB Ryan Yaites, a defender with good length and tremendous quickness who projects to safety but can also play CB. They also pulled from the wealth of talent at Saint Frances in Baltimore, landing Da’Shawn Womack, a DL with good initial quickness and mobility who plays with a strong motor. On offense, WR Jalen Brown was a big get out of Florida, as he is a fluid and quick prospect with promising upside.
ESPN 300 commits: 15 | Previous ranking: 7
Independent rank: 1
Top offensive commit: WR Braylon James (No. 60)
Top defensive commit: OLB Jaiden Ausberry (No. 59)
The Fighting Irish, who have inked two consecutive top-10 classes, secured their highest-ranked class in a decade. New coach Marcus Freeman has his fingerprints all over this class with multiple key additions on the defensive side of the ball. LB Drayk Bowen was a big in-state pickup as the top-rated player in Indiana. The Irish have several four-star defensive back commits, including Adon Shuler from New Jersey. There is also some promising offensive talent on board, led by ESPN 300 WR James, a lengthy vertical threat who posted a laser 4.47-second 40-yard dash this spring on the camp circuit. Rico Flores has excellent hands, is a strong route runner and could be a quick contributor as a result. The Irish also added one of the top RBs in the nation in Jeremiyah Love, who possesses big-play speed.
ESPN 300 commits: 11 | Previous ranking: 8
Pac-12 rank: 1 of 12
Top offensive commit: WR Jurrion Dickey (No. 38)
Top defensive commit: LB Matayo Uiagalelei (No. 65)
New coach Dan Lanning led Georgia’s championship defense last season and is building a defensive unit of similar caliber with the Ducks. A player that can help accomplish that is Uiagalelei, who is physically ready to make an impact. There is a focus on trying to build a similarly strong unit on offense. They suffered a big loss late in the process with QB Dante Moore decommitting but struck big flipping ESPN 300 QB Austin Novosad from Baylor on signing day. CB Cole Martin was another good pickup, as he possesses good feet and a physical demeanor, and CB Kodi Decambra loves to compete and should quickly contribute to the special teams unit. They also landed a nice addition in ESPN 300 DT A’Mauri Washington, a big, powerful and explosive lineman out of Arizona. The 6-foot-3 Ashton Cozart, who is long and fast and posted a laser-timed 4.45 40 at the Dallas Under Armour camp, and Dickey, who had an MVP performance at the UC Report Elite camp in Oakland, California, this spring, are big-play targets added to their passing attack.
ESPN 300 commits: 13 | Previous ranking: 9
Big Ten rank: 1 of 14
Top offensive commit: WR Brandon Inniss (No. 34)
Top defensive commit: CB Jermaine Mathews (No. 43)
A staple near the top of the recruiting rankings, the Buckeyes recruited at a high level once again. The Buckeyes made a statement at wide receiver, picking up three ESPN 300 WRs in as many days in Inniss, Noah Rogers and Carnell Tate. Tate and Rogers are nice-sized targets at roughly 6-foot-2, and Inniss is explosive with good hands. ESPN 300 offensive linemen Luke Montgomery and Joshua Padilla, along with high-three-star Austin Siereveld, were key in-state keeps in the trenches. The Buckeyes pulled strong secondary talent with prospects like Calvin Simpson-Hunt, a speedster who has clocked a sub-11 100-meter, and Mathews, who is looking to be an in-state steal posting a nearly 22 mph max speed score. Four-star Cedrick Hawkins can be an excellent player with his great feet and physical style of play. Jason Moore is a lengthy, thickly built and versatile defensive lineman out of the same high school, DeMatha Catholic in Maryland, as former Buckeyes standout Chase Young.
ESPN 300 commits: 7 | Previous ranking: 13 
Pac-12 rank: 2 of 12
Top offensive commit: QB Malachi Nelson (No. 1)
Top defensive commit: LB Tackett Curtis (No. 167)
Lincoln Riley added players who could create an explosive offensive unit for the Trojans. Two key in-state pickups who were planning to join Riley at Oklahoma flipped to their hometown school when Riley made the change. Nelson, the top-rated prospect in the nation, is a passer with a smooth release and the ability to make tough throws on the move. Five-star WR Makai Lemon, his high school teammate, has good hands and quickness. WR Zachariah Branch, out of Las Vegas, is one the fastest players in this class and can be an electrifying playmaker with the ball in his hands. After the two primary signing days had passed, USC still managed to add more offensive force with TE Duce Robinson. A prospect with a nice blend of height, strength and speed, he has the tools to be a matchup problem, as well as a red zone weapon. His presence can help accentuate the Trojans’ other talented passing targets. They also added some defensive talent, led by Curtis, a tough and physical player with good range. Strengthening play in the trenches is key, and USC added two D-line commitments, led by Samuel Greene, an explosive DT with active hands out of powerhouse program St. Frances in Maryland.
ESPN 300 commits: 9 | Previous ranking: 10 
ACC rank: 2 of 14
Top offensive commit: QB Christopher Vizzina (No. 42)
Top defensive commit: DT Peter Woods (No. 4)
Trevor Lawrence set a high bar, and replacing him is not easy, but the Tigers continue to add talented options under center. They signed the No. 2 overall quarterback in the 2022 cycle in Cade Klubnik and now landed ESPN 300 signal-caller Vizzina, a strong-armed, accurate and poised passer. Four-star WR Noble Johnson is a nice-sized target who is capable of creating problems with good explosiveness and the ability to break tackles after the catch. In the trenches, the Tigers have secured some very good talent. Offensively, Harris Sewell was a great pickup out of Texas. He is a flexible big man with good mobility who is also a physical finisher and should develop into a strong asset to the Tigers’ ground attack. The Tigers have recruited very well along the defensive line under Dabo Swinney. Woods was a huge get out of Alabama powerhouse program Thompson. One of the most explosive and disruptive DLs in the class, he reminds us of current Clemson standout DL Tyler Davis. David Ojiegbe is a powerful player who can be tough versus the run, and Vic Burley was a big win on the recruiting trail, as he is a multisport athlete in high school with good explosiveness and upside. At linebacker, Jamal Anderson is a rangy defender who can be a sideline-to-sideline presence.
ESPN 300 commits: 14 | Previous ranking: 11
SEC rank: 4 of 14
Top Offensive Commit: WR Aidan Mizell (No. 92)
Top Defensive Commit: DT Kelby Collins (No. 67)
Billy Napier has taken advantage of in-state talent with several Sunshine State pickups, assembling a strong secondary from that pool. The Gators have added several ESPN 300 DBs, including CBs Dijon Johnson, Ja’Keem Jackson and CB Sharif Denson, who has good feet and brings a tough, scrappy demeanor. Aaron Gates, who stayed on even after committing to the previous staff, projects to defensive back and can be a versatile player with his quickness and ball skills. Eugene Wilson III, listed as an athlete, projects to WR and is a player who tests very well, which will translate to his play on the field. Adding more potential firepower to their passing attack is Aidan Mizell, a lengthy target with big-play speed. Knijeah Harris is a nice addition to the trenches, as he has been a multiyear starter at IMG Academy and should come in ready to compete for playing time. The Gators also flipped ESPN 300 OG Roderick Kearney, a powerful and flexible big man who could work his way into the two-deep quickly, from Florida State. It is hard to win the SEC without being strong along the defensive front, and Collins leads a talented group of defensive linemen. Napier showed what he can do with a full cycle to work assembling one of the top classes in the country, but a late split with ESPN 300 QB Jaden Rashada still leaves a need under center.
ESPN 300 commits: 10 | Previous ranking: 12
SEC rank: 5 of 14
Top offensive commit: RB Rueben Owens II. (No. 44)
Top defensive commit: DT David Hicks (No. 8)
The Aggies signed the top class for 2022, and while this season was a disappointment, they have still made some big gains in recruiting, including adding more impact potential up front. On the heels of signing an outstanding 2022 haul along the defensive line, they have added another five-star DL in Hicks. Landing Hicks was a big win over future SEC foe Oklahoma, as he has tested well in a camp setting with that translating to his play on the field. He can be a versatile player along their defensive front with the tools to be a disruptive force, as he is powerful and explosive and accentuates that with great acceleration. In the secondary, they added some top talent in Jayvon Thomas, who’s aggressive and fast, and Dalton Brooks, who rushed for over 2,000 yards in back-to-back seasons and could contribute at RB but projects to defensive back. While they have some DBs who could play RB, the Aggies did land one of the top RB prospects in the class in Owens, a quick player who can make defenders miss. They brought Bravion Rogers back into the mix after a brief decommitment, and the projected CB adds more speed and versatility to their roster. They made some additions to the offensive line, raiding the Northeast for big pickups in Chase Bisontis out of New Jersey and Naquill Betrand out of Philadelphia. Colton Thomasson is a strong in-state pickup to develop on the O-line, as well.
ESPN 300 commits: 9 | Previous ranking: 14
SEC rank: 6 of 14
Top offensive commit: ATH Nyckoles Harbor (No. 31)
Top defensive commit: DE Desmond Umeozulu (No. 114)
South Carolina assembled one of the top bounce-back classes for the 2022 cycle and finished inside the top 15 in 2023. They scored some key in-state wins in the trenches with OL Markee Anderson, who has nice arm length, balance and works to finish as a blocker, and ESPN 300 DT Xzavier McLeod, a big body with good explosiveness. Another nice addition to the Gamecocks’ defensive front is Umeozulu, a lengthy edge defender with nice upside who was a big get out of Maryland. Grayson Howard is an active linebacker who has recorded three straight seasons of at least 100 tackles. Kelton Henderson is a versatile player who projects to be used as a big-play threat on offense with his speed and ability to create after the catch. Dontavius Braswell was a nice pickup at RB, as he displays good vision, burst and the physicality to generate yards after contact.
ESPN 300 commits: 8 | Previous ranking: 15
Big Ten rank: 2 of 14
Top offensive commit: OG J’ven Williams (No. 58)
Top defensive commit: S Elliot Washington (No. 54)
The Nittany Lions have assembled one of top classes in the Big Ten and did a nice job in the offensive trenches with several talented OL pickups led by Williams, the top-rated player in the state and a mobile and physical blocker. They continue to find success in the Washington, D.C., area with multiple commits out of Virginia, including Alex Birchmeier, a flexible and aggressive blocker. TE Andrew Rappleyea was a nice flip from Michigan, as he is a productive receiving target with good hands and body control. Another key flip, but on defense, was safety Washington, as the one-time Alabama verbal has good range, can change directions well and is a physical presence in the back end.
ESPN 300 commits: 9 | Previous ranking: 16
SEC rank: 7 of 14
Top offensive commit: QB Nicholaus Iamaleava (No. 23)
Top defensive commit: DE Chandavian Bradley (No. 84)
The Volunteers were able to score a big, early win on the recruiting trail with the commitment of ESPN 300 QB Iamaleava. Among the top QBs in the country, he is a talented passer who also moves well. WR Cameron Seldon could develop into a favorite target, as he is a thickly built and powerful runner with strong hands. The top-rated player in the state, Caleb Herring, an edge defender who can be a sideline-to-sideline presence, was another key addition for this rebuilding program. Bradley also is a big addition to the Vols’ defensive class, as he is a lengthy edge player with physical upside who possesses excellent first-step quickness and good body control to develop into a disruptive pass-rusher. ESPN 300 CB Jordan Matthews was a nice win over Texas on the recruiting trail and gives Tennessee a lengthy, agile cover corner.
ESPN 300 commits: 6 | Previous ranking: 17
Big Ten rank: 3 of 14
Top offensive commit: WR Karmello English (No. 80)
Top defensive commit: DE Enow Etta (No. 118)
Early on, the Wolverines secured a commitment from one of the top in-state prospects in Cole Cabana, a slashing runner who can also be a productive receiving target out of the backfield. Four-star Under Armour All-American WR English was a significant commitment on signing day given his excellent top-end speed. He joins in-state WR Semaj Morgan, who has a compact build and a strong lower body to break tackles. ESPN 300 DL Etta, out of Texas, will be another factor along the line of scrimmage with his length and strong redirection skills. Late in the process, they strengthened the depth in two high-three-star former Cincinnati commits: CB Cameron Calhoun and LB Jason Hewlett, a versatile and rangy player. The Wolverines have a quarterback in this class in Kendrick Bell, whose brother Ronnie has been a top wideout at Michigan. Bell is an intriguing prospect to develop and could potentially contribute in other roles over time.
ESPN 300 commits: 5 | Previous ranking: 18
ACC rank: 3 of 14
Top offensive commit: WR Hykeem Williams (No. 28)
Top defensive commit: LB Blake Nichelson (No. 195)
The Seminoles made some strong additions to their defensive line in Keith Sampson, who can be a stout presence; and Lamont Green Jr., a lengthy defender who runs well and has good upside. Nichelson was a big get out of California, as he can be a versatile LB. He backed up his strong testing numbers on the camp circuit with his on-field production. Under Armour All-American Lucas Simmons might need a little developmental time, but he is an excellent OL pickup and has a high ceiling. In-state four-star RB Samuel Singleton is a decisive, downhill runner. On the heels of a hot start on the field, the Seminoles landed their biggest commitment of the 2023 recruiting cycle in WR Williams, a lengthy burner who can be a big-play option.
ESPN 300 commits: 3 | Previous ranking: 19
Big 12 rank: 3 of 10
Top offensive commit: OT Markis Deal (No. 190)
Top defensive commit: DE Avion Carter (No. 191)
It has been many years since TCU has gone into a season or recruiting cycle with a new head coach, but Sonny Dykes and his staff showed they can get the Horned Frogs operating at a high level on the field and in recruiting. Not surprisingly, they are taking advantage of the rich pool of in-state talent, namely DL Carter. He is a defender with a good initial burst, can be stout vs. the run and disruptive as a pass-rusher, and he plays with good effort. They have several potential receiving weapons on board, led by the 6-foot-2 Cordale Russell and four-star Jordyn Bailey, who has good speed and can be a vertical weapon. Though Deal is listed as an offensive lineman and we feel his greatest upside is there, he will likely get a chance to develop further as a DL at TCU; he has the tools to be a productive defender. Either way, he gives the Frogs one of the top big men in the class who can help strengthen them in the trenches.
ESPN 300 commits: 6 | Previous ranking: 20
Pac-12 rank: 3 of 12
Top offensive commit: OT Spencer Fano (No. 236)
Top defensive commit: DE Hunter Clegg (No. 153)
The Utes built off their on-field success to gain some nice wins on the recruiting trail. Dijon Stanley is a speedster and can be a versatile threat at RB. They went into Arizona to beat several Pac-12 foes for ESPN 300 OL Caleb Lomu, who has an excellent frame to develop and good flexibility. At home, they fended off national attention to land OT Fano. Another big in-state pickup is DE Clegg, who was headed to Stanford but flipped to the Utes and gives them an explosive defender with good flexibility and agility. The December addition of four-star CB Smith Snowden helped strengthen their in-state haul, as they landed three of the top five prospects in Utah. The Utes have had success in Florida with signings such as Tyler Huntley and Zack Moss. They returned there to land ESPN 300 RB Michael Mitchell, who brings a nice blend of size, speed and strength.
ESPN 300 commits: 6 | Previous ranking: 21
SEC rank: 8 of 14
Top offensive commit: WR Daquayvious Sorey (No. 244)
Top defensive commit: CB Kayin Lee (No. 181)
New coach Hugh Freeze inherited a solid foundation and has added more talent since taking over to help this class rise. ESPN 300 WR Sorey gives the offensive-minded Freeze a big target in the passing game who can make tough, contested catches. In-state RB Jeremiah Cobb has the skills to contribute as a runner and receiving target. Among several recruiting flips before the start of the early signing period, Freeze added a second four-star safety in Sylvester Smith, who decommitted from Tennessee to join the Tigers. They will lose a talented edge player in Derick Hall, but they have landed several four- and high-three-star defensive linemen, including Darron Reed and Wilky Denaud. Big-bodied Bradyn Joiner from in state is an aggressive offensive lineman who has been a longtime commit.
ESPN 300 commits: 5 | Previous ranking: 22
SEC rank: 9 of 14
Top offensive commit: TE Luke Hasz (No. 83)
Top defensive commit: CB Jaylon Braxton (No. 214)
The Razorbacks stacked up talent at tight end with a pair of four-star commits. Hasz comes out of a winning program in Oklahoma and, as a receiving target, runs good routes and has sure hands. Shamar Easter was a home-state keep and is a lengthy target with a big catch radius and good hands. ESPN 300 RB Isaiah Augustave is a nice fit for the Razorbacks’ ground attack, as he is an aggressive and powerful runner who can break tackle and possesses big-play speed once he gets into space. LB Carson Dean is a name to watch in this class, as he is an active presence with good range and agility and could develop into a highly productive player in the mold of Arkansas LB Bumper Pool. Braxton is an explosive player who can quickly change direction and be a productive player in the secondary, as well as on special teams.
ESPN 300 commits: 3 | Previous ranking: 23
Pac-12 rank: 4 of 12
Top offensive commit: RB Dylan Edwards (No. 140)
Top defensive commit: CB Cormani McClain (No. 14)
Deion Sanders is already proving to be a serious factor on the recruiting trail, as expected. After shocking the recruiting world by landing five-star CB Travis Hunter last cycle while at Jackson State, he pulled another recruiting shocker by flipping McClain from Miami to Colorado. Pairing McClain, a lengthy, smooth and physical defender with impact ability, with Hunter gives the Buffaloes arguably the most talented CB tandem in college football. Winning out for one of the nation’s fastest players in running back Edwards was a huge get, as was signing four-star Under Armour All-American WR Adam Hopkins. They bring game-changing speed that the Colorado program has been lacking. Wide receiver talent is on the way from Sanders’ home state in three-stars Asaad Waseem and Isaiah Hardge. The state of Oklahoma can be a great evaluation state for Sanders and staff, and three-stars Morgan Pearson and Taje McCoy are two examples.
ESPN 300 commits: 4 | Previous ranking: 24
Big 12 rank: 4 of 10
Top offensive commit: QB Jake Strong (four stars)
Top defensive commit: S Brenden Jordan (No. 223)
New coach Joey McGuire has been known as a strong recruiter and brings a high-energy style to the Red Raiders. He struck big prior to signing day in his home state of Texas with explosive DE Dylan Spencer, who can really rush the passer. The foundation of the class is built on in-state talent, including quarterback Strong, a passer who has continued to improve throughout his high school career and has good arm strength and accuracy. To help protect Strong, the Red Raiders added several high-three-star OLs to develop in Daniel Sill, Dylan Shaw and Kaden Carr. Jordan can be a sound tackler at safety, and edge defender Isaiah Crawford is a lengthy prospect with nice upside.
ESPN 300 commits: 4 | Previous ranking: 25
Big Ten rank: 4 of 14
Top offensive commit: ATH Malachi Coleman (No. 155)
Top defensive commit: DE Cameron Lenhardt (No. 143)
The Matt Rhule era is underway with a talented class headed to Lincoln in short order. Gaining the pledge back from the 6-foot-5 Coleman was crucial; he’s a high-ceiling, two-way player who is being recruited to play wide receiver. While many classes have been quiet since the end of the early signing period, Nebraska has added two ESPN 300 prospects to its class. After he decommitted during the coaching change, Rhule and staff got versatile DL Lenhardt back on board. CB Ethan Nation is a diminutive but confident and quick defender. The state of Texas is going to be key recruiting ground for Nebraska under Rhule, and the staff went to the Houston area for three-star speedster Brice Turner. Four-star defensive tackle Riley Van Poppel is the son of former MLB pitcher Todd Van Poppel. The top two offensive line prospect inside the state lines are staying home in tackle Gunnar Gottula and guard Sam Sledge. Three-star Dwight Bootle II out of the Miami area has playmaking qualities.
ESPN 300 commits: 5 | Previous ranking: 26
Big Ten rank: 5 of 14
Top offensive commit: OT Stanton Ramil (No. 88)
Top defensive commit: DE Bai Jobe (No. 106)
On the offensive line, four-star OG Cole Dellinger is a quality in-state addition, and Ramil, who possesses good length and flexibility, was a big pickup out of one of the top high schools in Alabama, Thompson High. The Spartans went into rival Big Ten country to land DE Andrew Depaepe out of Iowa, a player with good strength and a motor. They have landed a potential quick contributor and future team leader at LB in Jordan Hall, a powerful defender who closes well, has a nose for the ball and was a multiyear captain at IMG. Another key addition to their front seven is Jobe, a defender with nice length and mobility who brings a high ceiling for development.
ESPN 300 commits: 2 | Previous ranking: 27
SEC rank: 10 of 14
Top offensive commit: QB Chris Parson (No. 192)
Top defensive commit: S Isaac Smith (No. 107)
The Bulldogs battled through a difficult period with the unexpected death of head coach Mike Leach, but this class is one fitting of his legacy, as it has no shortage of offensive talent. Parson gives them a strong-armed passer who throws a nice deep ball and has shown strong leadership skills. WR Justin Brown is a fluid player with excellent hands and body control and could develop into a highly productive target. They have done well close to home with multiple in-state commits, including Ty Jones, a big RB with a strong lower body who can run through arm tackles. They strengthened their offense by landing several good OL prospects in high-three-star OTs Zay Alexander and Malik Ellis, a blocker who can bend and move well and flashes a lot of promise if he can add needed weight. Overall, this class lacks many headline-grabbing pickups but is solid from top to bottom.
ESPN 300 commits: 5 | Previous ranking: 28
Pac-12 rank: 5 of 12
Top offensive commit: ATH Rashid Williams (No. 221)
Top defensive commit: S Vincent Holmes (No. 212)
Coach Kalen DeBoer’s first full class at Washington took a little time to come together, but he and the Huskies gained some strong momentum at the start of summer. Along the offensive line, four-star Elishah Jackett was a nice pickup out of California. Closer to home, No. 2 center Landen Hatchett is an underrated interior OL who could anchor that unit for multiple seasons. Williams brings playmaking ability, as he is a wiry, flexible target with nice hands and good speed. Onetime Texas A&M commit Anthony James is a nice pull out of Texas, as he possesses good initial quickness and agility. The Huskies went a long way to land one of the top safeties in the country in Curley Reed, who hails from Louisiana. They should find him a worthy out-of-state addition, as he possesses good range and physical playing style; he could quickly be a valuable contributor on special teams.
ESPN 300 commits: 4 | Previous ranking: 29
ACC rank: 4 of 14
Top offensive commit: QB Tad Hudson (No. 150)
Top defensive commit: LB Jaybron Harvey (No. 183)
A key to UNC’s top-10 class in the 2022 cycle was in-state talent. For 2023, the Tar Heels again did well close to home. Hudson is the top-rated QB in the state and gives them a passer with a strong arm and the ability to make tough throws. A potential top target from within their borders is WR Chris Culliver, who possesses a nice blend of length and wiggle and can be productive after the catch. Jaybron Harvey is one of the top in-state defensive prospects and has the tools to develop into a disruptive edge rusher. After landing the top prospect in Virginia last cycle, they found success there again with multiple quality commits, including Joel Starlings, a big, strong ESPN 300 DT who can help stuff the run, and high-three-star OT Nolan McConnell.
ESPN 300 commits: 5 | Previous ranking: 30
SEC rank: 11 of 14
Top offensive commit: WR Ayden Williams (No. 103)
Top defensive commit: ATH Suntarine Perkins (No. 18)
The Rebels landed the top two players in state, led by Perkins, who projects to linebacker and can be an explosive defender who still brings high upside. Williams is the No. 2-ranked prospect in Mississippi and could be a quick contributor once arriving. He is a tall, lengthy target who is a polished route runner and has the size to break tackles and produce after the catch. On the heels of Quinshon Judkins‘ breakout freshman season, the Rebels are adding more young talent to their RB room with Kedrick Reescano, who can be versatile with his blend of size, speed, ball skills and physical nature.
ESPN 300 commits: 2 | Previous ranking: 31
Pac-12 rank: 6 of 12
Top offensive commit: QB Dante Moore (No. 2)
Top defensive commit: LB Tre Edwards (four stars)
The Bruins’ class secured some talented prospects later in the cycle, including flipping five-star QB Moore from conference rival Oregon just before the start of the early signing period. As starter Dorian Thompson-Robinson moves on, Moore gives them an elite QB prospect with a quick release and good accuracy who is also mobile. ESPN 300 WR Jeremiah McClure is a deep-threat target with good hands who can track the ball. Grant Gray is another receiver who could be an early contributor for Chip Kelly, as he is a tall, lengthy target with excellent ball skills. DE Grant Buckey was a one-time commit to crosstown rival USC but now brings to the Bruins an aggressive player in the trenches who has a good get-off, uses his hands well and plays with a motor. R.J. Jones is a rangy safety who can make plays against the pass, and Edwards is an instinctive LB who is also a good tackler and can be strong versus the run.
ESPN 300 commits: 4 | Previous ranking: 32
ACC rank: 5 of 14
Top offensive commit: OG Madden Sanker (No. 134)
Top defensive commit: CB Aaron Williams (No. 161)
The Cardinals’ 2022 class took a bit to come together, as they finished near the bottom of the ACC, and while the 2023 group is much stronger, a late change in staff will shake things up a bit. Alum Jeff Brohm inherits and built upon a talented group. QB Pierce Clarkson is a passer with a strong arm and background at the position, as he’s the son of longtime quarterbacks coach Steve Clarkson. Receiver Jahlil McClain should have good synergy with Clarkson, as the two are high school teammates at St. John Bosco in California. DE Adonijah Green is a pickup with a high ceiling for development. He is a lean but lengthy player with good initial quickness and was among the top performers at a loaded Under Armour camp in Atlanta this spring. Brohm flipped from his previous Purdue class high-three-star DLs Micah Carter and Saadiq Clements, who both return home as top-five prospects in Kentucky.
ESPN 300 commits: 4 | Previous ranking: 33
Big Ten rank: 6 of 14
Top offensive commit: QB Robert Long (three stars)
Top defensive commit: DE Rico Walker (No. 163)
Long was the first commit in this class, and he immediately gave the Terps a highly competitive and mobile QB with a quick release and good arm strength. In-state power St. Frances is a key recruiting location, and out of there they landed receiver Ryan Manning, an explosive target who tracks the ball well. Defensively, Walker is a big addition, as he can be a versatile edge defender with his blend of length and agility and has experience at LB and DE. Interior OL Deandre Duffus is a physical people mover and should know what it takes to win after playing for multiple state-title teams at Chaminade-Madonna in Florida.
ESPN 300 commits: 1 | Previous ranking: 34
SEC rank: 12 of 14
Top offensive commit: WR Shamar Porter (four stars)
Top defensive commit: CB Avery Stuart (No. 234)
The Wildcats finished in the top 25 last year, and while falling short of doing so again, they still assembled a quality class that addresses some needs. They addressed WR in the previous class and continue to add talent to that unit with Porter, a lengthy and sudden target, as well as four-star Anthony Brown, a diminutive but quick player. They have two of the top five in-state players, led by OT Malachi Wood, a 6-foot-8 lineman with a big frame to develop. In the secondary, four-stars Stuart and Jaremiah Anglin Jr. are very nice additions, as they’re prospects with good length and agility.
ESPN 300 commits: 1 | Previous ranking: 35
Big 12 rank: 5 of 10
Top offensive commit: OT Isaiah Robinson (No. 268)
Top defensive commit: DE Trey Wilson (four stars)
A disappointing season did not help with recruiting returns in Waco. QB Austin Novosad was a devastating loss at a position of need. Receivers are solid though as Micah Gifford can be a productive target and has shown he can make the tough play in contested matchups. The Bears have not ventured out of state much, but they pulled a talented TE out of Arizona in Max Klopfenstein, who possesses good hands and will work well as a blocker. Over the summer, they added several OL commits, led by Robinson, a big man just scratching the surface of his potential whose frame will greatly benefit from time in their strength program. Defensively, Wilson is a defender with good explosiveness and active hands.
ESPN 300 commits: 1 | Previous ranking: 36
Pac-12 rank: 7 of 12
Top offensive commit: QB Brayden Dorman (No. 235)
Top defensive commit: LB Leviticus Su’a (four stars)
Coach Jedd Fisch is moving Arizona in the right direction on the field and in recruiting. He got his QB in Dorman, a big, poised pocket passer with a strong arm. RB Brandon Johnson, an Elite UC event standout in Utah last offseason, brings more talent to the offensive backfield as a runner with a good blend of speed and quickness. Helping protect and pave the way for those two are some strong OL pickups, led by the powerful and physical Rhino Tapaatoutai. LB Taye Brown has good length and agility and can develop into a disruptive pass-rusher.
ESPN 300 commits: 2 | Previous ranking: 37
SEC rank: 13 of 14
Top offensive commit: TE Brett Norfleet (No. 213)
Top defensive commit: DE Jahkai Lang (three stars)
The Tigers were far from matching last cycle’s nearly top-10 finish but have some good building blocks in their 2023 class. Norfleet gives them a prospect with a big frame to develop and could project to TE, OT or contribute on the defensive line. High-three-star safety Marvin Burks was headed out of state with a commitment to Ole Miss, but Mizzou ultimately got him to stay closer to home and gets a player with good size and instincts. RB Jamal Roberts was another good in-state pickup and is a strong runner who can generate yards after contact and also has good speed once he breaks into the open field. QB Gabarri Johnson is an interesting pickup outside of their main footprint. Out of Washington, he lacks ideal size, but he is a dual-threat presence who has had a very productive high school career making plays with his arm and legs.
ESPN 300 commits: 1 | Previous ranking: 38
ACC rank: 6 of 14
Top offensive commit: TE Javonte Vereen (No. 279)
Top defensive commit: CB Daemon Fagan (four stars)
The Wolfpack pulled two excellent four-stars out of Florida in RB Kendrick Raphael and CB Fagan. Raphael has home run speed, demonstrating he can hit nearly 22 mph and pull away from defenders, and Fagan is a lengthy defender out of American Heritage, which has produced multiple productive FBS defensive backs. Vereen can help move the chains as a target with good ball skills. They scored big at the juco level with Jykeveous Hibbler, an explosive pass-rusher with the tools to be their next impact defensive lineman.
ESPN 300 commits: 1 | Previous ranking: 39
Pac-12 rank: 8 of 12
Top offensive commit: OG Simione Pale (No. 275)
Top defensive commit: CB Jshawn Frausto-Ramos (four stars)
Stanford is undergoing a coaching change for first time in over a decade, and while there is work to do for the future, the new staff inherited a nice foundation of talent, especially offensively. WR Ahmari Borden is a lengthy target with very good quickness and will work to be an aggressive blocker as well. Tiger Bachmeier is a competitive prospect who can be a reliable target. They have a four-star RB on board in the versatile Sedrick Irvin Jr. Even with the coaching change, the Cardinal were still able to make a quality pickup in late riser Jackson Harris, an in-state ATH who blends nice size, speed and body control.
ESPN 300 commits: 1 | Previous ranking: 40
Big 12 rank: 6 of 10
Top offensive commit: QB Avery Johnson (No. 77)
Top defensive commit: OLB Asa Newsom (three stars)
Having had great success at FCS power North Dakota State, head coach Chris Klieman is now cultivating success on the field and the recruiting trail at Kansas State. The Wildcats stayed in state for their biggest commitment in Johnson, a QB with a strong arm and the mobility to improvise and extend plays. The late close on the rangy Newsom fills a need at linebacker. Andre Davis was another key in-state keep, as he is a 6-3, 200-pound target in the passing game. DE Jordan Allen is an underrated pickup, as he possesses good first-step quickness and bend; he should only improve as he continues to physically develop. ATH Donovan McIntosh projects to the secondary, where he can use his quickness, length and ball skills at corner.
ESPN 300 commits: 2 | Previous ranking: 41
Big Ten rank: 7 of 14
Top offensive commit: ATH Kaden Feagin (No. 290)
Top defensive commit: CB Saboor Karriem (No. 295)
Feagin is a versatile threat who could develop at a few positions but looks like an excellent fit for coach Bret Bielema’s offense as a big, powerful running back. The offense should also benefit from several additions up front, including Brandon Henderson. An underrated big man from in-state powerhouse program East St. Louis, he plays on an O-line with two on other FBS commits, and Henderson has the most upside of that group. QB Cal Swanson can develop under center, as he has a quick release, is mobile and can be accurate on the move. On defense, Karriem is a nice get out of New Jersey, as he’s a lengthy cover corner.
ESPN 300 commits: 1 | Previous ranking: 42
Big 12 rank: 7 of 10
Top offensive commit: QB J.J. Kohl (No. 111)
Top defensive commit: ATH Jamison Patton (three stars)
A big win for the Cyclones was keeping Kohl at home, as he is a passer with one of the strongest arms in the class and is mobile enough to generate second-chance opportunities and make throws on the move. Michael Parkes could develop into a favorite target, as he is an explosive player with good hands and runs excellent routes. Another nice addition to their receiving corps is Beni Ngoyi, a target with good quickness and body control. Three-star big man Trevor Buhr is a prospect with good strength and bend, and while he could play DT as well, he projects to the offensive line with upside. In-state ATH Patton projects to the secondary for the Cyclones.
ESPN 300 commits: 3 | Previous ranking: 43
Group of 5 rank: 1
Top offensive commit: TE Randy Pittman (three stars)
Top defensive commit: DL John Walker (No. 90)
The Knights under Gus Malzahn continue to be a threat to power programs recruiting in the Sunshine State. Top-100 DT Walker was a huge victory as an impact player and future all-conference player who stayed home. Isaiah Nixon announced on signing day and should also be an early-impact defender. Three-star CB Braeden Marshall is another local prospect who will be an impact player. Add three-star DE Kaven Call to the impressive talent staying home. Three-star TE Pittman out of the Florida panhandle will be a matchup nightmare for opposing defensive coordinators. The quarterback in the class is three-star Dylan Rizk.
ESPN 300 commits: 0 | Previous ranking: 44
Big 12 rank: 8 of 10
Top offensive commit: ATH Rodney Gallagher (four stars)
Top defensive commit: LB Josiah Trotter (four stars)
Neal Brown landed a potential anchor for his defense over the coming season in LB Josiah Trotter. In the mold of his All-Pro father Jeremiah, Trotter can be a tough, productive presence between the tackles. Offensively, they added a talented three-star RB in Jahiem White, who displays good vision and the ability to produce after contact. Four-star ATH Gallagher, who is also a talented basketball player, projects to WR. He displays natural playmaking ability with good quickness, ball skills and a high ceiling for development with a focus on the position.
ESPN 300 commits: 0 | Previous ranking: 45
Big Ten rank: 8 of 14
Top offensive commit: QB Marco Lainez III (three stars)
Top defensive commit: LB Ben Kueter (four stars)
Not surprisingly, the Hawkeyes’ class is not very flashy, but it has a very solid foundation. QB Marco Lainez III is a consistent, smooth and accurate passer who looks like a nice fit for Iowa’s offense. Known for its eye for and developing offensive linemen, Iowa landed top-10 center Leighton Jones. Defensively, Chase Brackney displays good power to collapse the pocket and set the edge vs. the run. Kueter is another key in-state keep, as the state wrestling champ brings a physical and tenacious style of play to the LB position.
ESPN 300 commits: 1 | Previous ranking: 46
Pac-12 rank: 9 of 12
Top offensive commit: QB Jaden Rashada (No. 31)
Top defensive commit: DT Kyran Bourda (three stars)
New coach Kenny Dillingham and staff are going hard on the transfer portal out of the gate in Tempe. As far as the high school ranks are concerned, the hires of assistants Ra’Shaad Samples and Bryan Carrington will be fruitful for the Sun Devils. The duo immediately flipped three-star safety Montana Warren and three-star defensive tackle C.J. Fite from Big 12 programs. They pulled two talented defensive linemen out of Louisiana in high-upside end Ashley Williams, who was an Auburn commit at one point, and Bourda, a powerful tackle with a good initial burst. Three-star WR Korbin Hendrix averaged over 20 yards per reception as a senior. The biggest recruit is Rashada, one of the elite QBs in his class. He has a tall, lengthy frame to develop, as well as a smooth release with outstanding touch on the deep ball. Rashada is mobile enough to create second chances, and of the top 10 quarterbacks this cycle, he may have the most upside.
ESPN 300 commits: 0 | Previous ranking: 47
Big Ten rank: 9 of 14
Top offensive commit: OG Dylan Senda (three stars)
Top defensive commit: OLB Nigel Glover (four stars)
May kicked off a fruitful run on the recruiting trail for the Wildcats as they landed multiple commitments, including four-star defensive talent. Their run in May bolstered an already good group of OL commits, as Jordan Knox and Alex Doost came on board and joined top-25 OG prospects Senda and Anthony Birsa. They scored one of the top in-state prospects in Damon Walters, who can be an aggressive, big-hitting safety. A talented LB addition out of Ohio is Nigel Glover, who is a physical player with good agility and can be productive against the run and pass. DL Dylan Roberts might not be a highly touted name, but he has the tools to be a productive presence in the trenches with good explosiveness, strength and an active style of play.
ESPN 300 commits: 1 | Previous ranking: 48
ACC rank: 7 of 14
Top offensive commit: OG Ryan Carretta (three stars)
Top defensive commit: LB Jordan Bass (No. 289)
The Panthers under Pat Narduzzi have signed some gems out of Florida over the years. This Pittsburgh class is filled with talent from both Florida and Georgia. Three-star skill players from Florida are Miami Central wide receiver Lamar Seymore, fellow wide receiver Jesse Anderson, powerful running back Montravius Lloyd and long and rangy cornerback Shadarian Harrison. The Peach State is represented by three-star offensive tackle B.J. Williams and running back T.J. Harvison. Carretta, out of Ohio, and DT Isaiah Neal, out of Maryland, will have the opportunity to be impact players. Bass is a rangy prospect who can give the Panthers’ defense a versatile playmaker.
ESPN 300 commits: 0 | Previous ranking: 49
Big Ten rank: 10 of 14
Top offensive commit: RB Nate White (four stars)
Top defensive commit: CB Jace Arnold (four stars)
Luke Fickell hit the recruiting trail running in Madison. Four-star Peach State CB Arnold will compete for time in the secondary from day one. Another talented cornerback in the class is three-star Texan A.J. Tisdell, who heads to Madison with college-ready physicality. Four-star LB Tyler Jansey out of Illinois is expected to play early on. Keeping in-state four-star RB White in the fold was a key win. Three-star OT James Durand and DE Jordan Mayer have ideal feet and flexibility.
ESPN 300 commits: 1 | Previous ranking: 50
ACC rank: 8 of 14
Top offensive commit: ATH Nate Johnson (No. 270)
Top defensive commit: CB Shawn Battle (three stars)
Johnson was an outstanding get for the Eagles, as he is one of the fastest players in this class. While he could line up on either side of the ball, he projects as a big-play offensive target. Jacobe Robinson is a nice player to develop at QB, as he has a quick release with good arm strength and can be elusive as a runner. They were able to keep RB Datrell Jones, a top-10 prospect in Massachusetts, at home. An intriguing player in the class to keep an eye on is three-star ATH Reed Harris out of Montana. A high school QB, his blend of size (6-foot-4, 205 pounds), speed and agility could be utilized well at WR or TE.
ESPN 300 commits: 1 | Previous ranking: 51
SEC rank: 14 of 14
Top offensive commit: WR London Humphreys (three stars)
Top defensive commit: CB Martel Hight (No. 274)
The Commodores under coach Clark Lea have landed some promising building blocks. A well-rounded CB with good length, Hight could be an early contributor. Jalen Gilbert is another strong addition to their secondary as a safety with good speed. LB Ethan Crisp is an excellent in-state pickup; not only is he a defender who uses his hands well and has good range, but he also excelled this offseason at the Ray Lewis Academy, taking home the leadership award. Vandy lost its leading rusher to the transfer portal but is bringing in a talented RB in Sedrick Alexander; he’s a compact runner with good agility to make defenders miss as well as good balance to create yards after contact.
ESPN 300 commits: 1 | Previous ranking: 52
ACC rank: 9 of 14
Top offensive commit: WR Micah Mays (three stars)
Top defensive commit: CB Antonio Robinson (No. 300)
This Demon Deacons class is anchored by a quality group of defensive linemen. Among that group is DT Chris Marable, who has a good get-off, active hands and could be a tough run defender. Ka’Shawn Thomas is a big body with good strength and can be a stout presence to help stuff the run. Kerrington Lee is another high-three-star addition to their defensive line and possesses good initial quickness and strong hands. They have also bolstered the CB position with several pickups led by Robinson, a fluid, quick player in coverage who is also wiry and willing to support the run.
ESPN 300 commits: 0 | Previous ranking: 53
ACC rank: 10 of 14
Top offensive commit: QB Grayson Loftis (three stars)
Top defensive commit: ATH Moussa Kane (three stars)
Mike Elko wasted little time assembling his first full class and identifying and building a deep group early in the process. A key early pickup was QB Loftis, a strong-armed passer who can make all the throws. Kevin O’Connor is an edge defender with a nice frame to develop and possesses a good initial burst. Kane gives the former defensive coordinator a rangy defensive back who can cover ground and be a physical presence. In-state DE Semaj Turner can get off the ball and pressure the QB as well as set the edge.
ESPN 300 commits: 0 | Previous ranking: 54
ACC rank: 11 of 14
Top offensive commit: WR Chance Fitzgerald (three stars)
Top defensive commit: CB Cameren Fleming (three stars)
The Hokies added some potential playmaking targets in the passing game in Ayden Greene and in-state WR Krystian Williams. Greene has good hands and body control, and Williams is a lengthy target who can adjust well to off-target throws and can also make defenders miss after the catch. Another talented target who could be an early contributor is Fitzgerald, who is a good route runner with the size and strength to win contested matchups. In-state defensive back Fleming can be a versatile player in the secondary, as he is a quick and tough player with good ball skills.
ESPN 300 commits: 0 | Previous ranking: 55
Big Ten rank: 11 of 14
Top offensive commit: RB Darius Taylor (three stars)
Top defensive commit: DE Karter Menz (three stars)
The Golden Gophers continue to win key battles in their state and region, and work the South to fill skill needs under P.J. Fleck. Fleck and staff have five of the top seven prospects in the state, including offensive linemen Jerome Williams, Reese Tripp and Greg Johnson. Three-star running back Marquese Williams is a darting, quick runner with impressive contact balance. Taylor is a versatile ATH who also projects to RB and can bring more playmaking ability to Minnesota’s offensive attack. Sunshine State skill talent comes in the form of three-star wide receiver Donielle Hayes and safety Kerry Brown. Three-star defensive tackle Theorin Randle out of Texas fills an interior need.
ESPN 300 commits: 1 | Previous ranking: 56
Group of 5 rank: 2
Top offensive commit: ATH Mikal Harrison-Pilot (No. 184)
Top defensive commit: DL Justin Benton (three stars)
Dana Holgorsen continues to upgrade the talent level in the program with the move to the Big 12 on the horizon. Four-star Jonah Wilson was a huge flip from Texas during the season, as was Benton on signing day. Wilson has elite ball skills and body control, and Benton can wreak havoc up front. Harrison-Pilot was a big in-state keep, and the ESPN 300 athlete projects to add more firepower to the Cougars’ receiving corps. Four-star RB Parker Jenkins is another impressive playmaker with 10.8-second 100-meter speed who’s staying home. Three-star RB Re’Shaun Sanford has elite quickness and burst to the second level as a threat out of the backfield. Three-star OG Cayden Bowie has big-time foot quickness and flexibility out of the Golden Triangle. Fort Bend Marshall is about 20 minutes from campus, and that is where the staff went for more speed and playmaking. Three-stars Michael Patterson and Ja’koby Banks are among the Houston area’s most dynamic prospects.
ESPN 300 commits: 0 | Previous ranking: 57
Big Ten rank: 12 of 14
Top offensive commit: OG JaSire Peterson (three stars)
Top defensive commit: CB Bo Mascoe (three stars)
Keeping talent at home remains a goal and challenge for Rutgers. The Scarlet Knights did keep several in-state, high-three-star OLs in Peterson, John Stone and Nick Oliveira. WR Jessie Ofurie can be a dependable target, as he offers a wide catch radius and strong hands. Florida, a key recruiting ground for the Scarlet Knights, is where they brought in high-three-star CB Mascoe, an aggressive and agile defender who should also be a strong special teams contributor.
ESPN 300 commits: 0 | Previous ranking: 58
Pac-12 rank: 10 of 12
Top offensive commit: QB Aidan Chiles (four stars)
Top defensive commit: DE Kelze Howard (four stars)
The Beavers are coming off a nine-win regular season and working to turn that into some wins on the recruiting trail as well. Four-star Howard was a huge pickup as he possesses good body quickness and a big frame to develop as a DL or possibly an OT. Thomas Collins is an intriguing DT from Sweden who moves well for his size and possesses some good raw tools to work with. QB Chiles is another nice developmental addition, as he is a big pocket passer who can drive the ball downfield. Out of Texas, WR Montrel Hatten could be the target on the other end of some of those deep balls, as he can be a vertical threat and also has the agility and burst to be able to create after the catch.
ESPN 300 commits: 0 | Previous ranking: 59
ACC rank: 12 of 14
Top offensive commit: OT Ethan Mackenny (three stars)
Top defensive commit: LB Jacob Cruz (three stars)
Brent Key takes over the program where he once played after the Yellow Jackets hired from within. The longtime offensive line coach has a solid class on the offensive front headed to Atlanta in three-star in-state tackles Mackenny and Benjamin Galloway. Both prospects have quick feet and long arms to work out at tackle. Three-star Patrick Screws is a talented center out of Key’s home state of Alabama. Three-star Gabriel Fortson could play center or guard. Wide receiver help is on the way from in-state three-stars Bryce Dopson and Zion Taylor, both of whom have downfield quickness.
ESPN 300 commits: 1 | Previous ranking: 60
Group of 5 rank: 3
Top offensive commit: RB/ATH Damian Henderson (No. 282)
Top defensive commit: OLB Kennedy McDowell (three stars)
The Rams are seeing success on the recruiting trail under coach Jay Norvell. His connections in California are proving to be fruitful with versatile four-star RB Henderson, who put up nearly 1,750 yards rushing with 23 touchdowns as a senior. The wide receiver position was one of need in the 2023 cycle, and the staff answered with several talented targets. Three-star Justin Marshall is an advanced route runner out of Indiana, while California three-stars Lavon Brown and Dante Scott bring length and downfield ability to the program. The 6-foot-6 Mason Muaau is a nice red zone toy with physical upside for the Rams’ staff. Lone Star State three-star LB McDowell brings edge pass-rush ability to the program with the frame to add 20 or more pounds. Colorado State went to Washington for star CB T.J. Crandall. Three-star ATH Buom Jock is an intriguing prospect out of Virginia with size and range.
ESPN 300 commits: 0 | Previous ranking: 61
Big 12 rank: 9 of 10
Top offensive commit: QB Zane Flores (three stars)
Top defensive commit: LB Poasa Utu (three stars)
Mike Gundy always evaluates well, and the Cowboys’ program is strong in player development as well. Flores is the headliner for the 2023 class. He leaves Gretna High in Nebraska with over 9,000 career passing yards and 82 touchdowns against 24 interceptions. Oklahoma State’s class includes a half dozen prospects from Texas, led by quick and reactive linebacker Utu. Three-star DE Ricky Lolohea was a high-level player as a senior. Three-star CB Dylan Smith and three-star WR Camron Heard will bring ball skills to Stillwater. Three-star safety Kam Franklin and cornerback R.J. Lester, both from Louisiana, bring length and coverage skills to the program. Punter Hudson Kaak will challenge for the job from day one.
ESPN 300 commits: 0 | Previous ranking: 62
Group of 5 rank: 4
Top offensive commit: OT Daniel Ogundipe (ESPN JC50 No. 10)
Top defensive commit: DT Vic Shaw (three stars)
Jeff Traylor continues to win on the field in an impressive way, and the talent is following. The junior college ranks continue to be key for the UTSA staff with Buffalo Kruize looked upon as an impact player. The same can be said for juco OT Daniel Ogundipe, who has very good foot quickness in space. JC50 Marcellus Wilkerson will push for a starting spot at cornerback quickly. LB Rodney Groce is another junior college defender the staff is very high on. East Texas playmaker Devin McCuin is expected to be a difference-maker. The same can be said for WR David Amador, who runs 10.7 in the 100 meters. Three-star QB Jackson Gilkey has the tools and feet to be developed by the Road Runners staff. Three-star RB Brandon High has coveted downhill power and contact balance. East Texas DL Shaw could also end up on offense. TE Devin Scura is another pick to hit the field early in San Antonio.
ESPN 300 commits: 0 | Previous ranking: 63
Big Ten rank: 13 of 14
Top offensive commit: WR Ryne Shackelford (three stars)
Top defensive commit: DT Drake Carlson (three stars)
The Ryan Walters era has begun at Purdue. Defensive line was a position of need in the 2023 class, and Nashville area three-star Carlson will be impact players with quickness and playing strength. In-state safety Winston Berglund is one of the more undervalued playmakers in the Midwest. Purdue traveled to Florida for CB Ethon Cole. Three-star Zion Gunn is another Sunshine State speedster headed north.
ESPN 300 commits: 1 | Previous ranking: 64
Group of 5 rank: 5
Top offensive commit: TE Jackson Bowers (No. 258)
Top defensive commit: DE Siale Esera (three stars)
The Cougars are keeping some of the best local prospects home and are winning key battles across the West Coast under Kalani Sitake. Six of the top 22 prospects in the home state will play for BYU, headlined by QB Ryder Burton. Burton will have a big target to throw to in four-star TE Bowers out of the Tucson area. Two other TEs in the class are three-star Saimone Davis out of the Dallas/Fort Worth area and Matthew Fredrick from inside state lines. Davis could end up on defense in Provo, too. OT Ethan Thomason will bring the desired size and frame from Colorado. Defensive line and linebacker were key positions of need for the Cougars in the cycle. In-state three-star end Esera will enroll ready to compete. Another in-state end, Talitui Pututau, has an ideal frame to develop over time. Three-star Pierson Watson is a quick-footed and flexible edge rusher out of Arizona. Three-star linebacker Owen Borg has plenty of room on his frame to add weight.
ESPN 300 commits: 0 | Previous ranking: 65
Group of 5 rank: 6
Top offensive commit: WR Jaxson Lavender (three stars)
Top defensive commit: LB Alex Kilgore (three stars)
The Mustangs put together a solid class full of Texans under head coach Rhett Lashlee. There is length on defense with three-star DL Daemian Wimberly having been one of the most improved seniors in Texas, and fellow end Braeden Flowers possessing edge-rush ability and quickness. Three-star LB Kilgore is an early enrollee with range and ability to play in space with fluidity. Three-star QB Keldric Luster is a compact and powerful signal-caller who has a winner’s mentality. Three-star Lavender has straight-line wheels and is a key playmaker. Three-star TE Tripp Riordan is a good bet to see the field early for the Mustangs. Three-star Reagan Gill has flown under the radar but is a talented guard out of the Houston area.
ESPN 300 commits: 0 | Previous ranking: 66
Pac-12 rank: 11 of 12
Top offensive commit: WR Brandon Hills (three stars)
Top defensive commit: DE Isaac Terrell (three stars)
Jake Dickert and the Cougars have attacked the junior college ranks successfully on both sides of the ball. Wide receiver D.T. Sheffield and offensive tackle Eliesa Pole are strong additions from the juco level. Joining them are a pair of JC50 CBs in Kapena Gushikin and Jamorri Colson, who head to Wazzu with the expectation of pushing for jobs from day one. Utah DE Terrell headlines the high school portion of the class, along with hard-hitting LB Tai Faavae out of Colorado. Another state of Colorado prospect headed to Washington State is Hills, a quick and smooth route runner. A name to remember down the line is three-star offensive tackle Noah Dunham out of Yuba City, California.
ESPN 300 commits: 0 | Previous ranking: 67
Group of 5 rank: 7
Top offensive commit: TE Christian Ross (three stars)
Top defensive commit: S MarJayvious Moss (three stars)
The Tigers continue to evaluate well on the high school level, mix in from the junior college ranks and attack the transfer portal under Ryan Silverfield. Juco instant-impact help will come from Derick Hunter, a former Texas A&M lineman. Juco LB Marcus Tillman is a former Texas signee who has been slowed by injury since high school. Junior college TE Jace Yerty and OT Judea Milon will push for starting jobs right away. Three-star offensive linemen Malachi Breland and Landon Zaldivar can move the pile in the run game. Three-star safety Tyson Edwards will bring the hat in the run game.
ESPN 300 commits: 0 | Previous ranking: 68
ACC rank: 13 of 14
Top offensive commit: WR Jaden Gibson (three stars)
Top defensive commit: LB Kamren Robinson (three stars)
Tony Elliott has overcome an extremely difficult first year in Charlottesville. On the recruiting trail, he put together a class that fills needs. Three-star LB Robinson and three-star DE Miles Greene from in state have quickness, range and long arms. Three-star CB Trent Baker-Booker and three-star safeties Landon Danley and TyLyric Coleman are all 6-foot-2 with long arms and the ball skills to to be effective at the ACC level. Three-star RBs Donte Hawthorne and Noah Vaughn have differing skill sets that will blend nicely together. Hawthorne was a key in-state win, while smooth mover Jaden Gibson was a big win out of Georgia. Three-stars Jason Hammond and TE TeKai Kirby out of South Florida power Saint Thomas Aquinas have high ceilings.
ESPN 300 commits: 0 | Previous ranking: 69
Big 12 rank: 10 of 10
Top offensive commit: TE Jaden Hamm (four stars)
Top defensive commit: CB Jacoby Davis (three stars)
The Jayhawks made a big jump on the field in 2022 and continue to add pieces on the recruiting trail. The wide receiver position has plenty of talent on the way in sure-handed Surahz Buncom out of California and Keaton Kubecka out of Texas power Austin Westlake. Another Lone Star State WR in the class is Jarred Sample out of the Houston area. The top in-state prospect in the class is three-star OT Calvin Clements from down the road at Lawrence Free State High. Three-star CB Jameel Croft and three-star defensive tackle Marcus Calvin have impact ability. DEs Tony Terry and Blake Herold have strong hands and playing strength with frames to develop.
ESPN 300 commits: 0 | Previous ranking: 70
Group of 5 rank: 8
Top offensive commit: RB Jambres Dubar (three stars)
Top defensive commit: LB Wyatt Milkovic (three stars)
The Broncos continue to find success recruiting heavily in California and Texas on both sides of the ball. Three-star LB Milkovic is a downhill striker with college-ready size. Three-star DT Michael Madrie is battle-tested out of Texas and is expected to push for time right away. Three-star Khai Taylor from Northern California will bring long arms and quick feet. The same can be said for Texas three-star S Nick Hawthorne out of Fort Worth. DE Demanuel Brown was one of the Houston area’s most improved players as a senior. He brings pass-rush ability with frame potential. Three-star running back Dubar is one of the most talented small-school players in the Lone Star State. Three-star Franklyn Johnson could play safety or receiver for the Broncos. The signal-caller in the class is three-star C.J. Tiller out of Southern California.
ESPN 300 commits: 0 | Previous ranking: 71
Group of 5 rank: 9
Top offensive commit: RB Trey Cornist (three stars)
Top defensive commit: DE A.J. Thomas (three stars
The Green Wave had a very good 2022 season on the field and followed it with another well-evaluated class. Thomas is a strong edge-setting defensive end and a big get down the stretch. Three-star RB Arnold Barnes and three-star safety Jai Eugene Jr. are impact players who are staying home, as is three-star cornerback Nick Jacobs. Cornist gives their backfield a big, powerful between-the-tackles runner. Three-star Jean Claude Joseph is an undersized but instinctive linebacker who can strike. Another three-star linebacker in the fold is Dickson Agu from in state. Three-star DE Jahrie Garner comes from a very talented Saint Augustine High program in New Orleans. Two prospects from Texas have size at their position in CB Joshua Moore and OG Lajuan Owens. Darian Mensah is the signal-caller in the class.
ESPN 300 commits: 0 | Previous ranking: 72
Group of 5 rank: 10
Top offensive commit: ATH Xavier Irvin (three stars)
Top defensive commit: DT Gensley Auguste (three stars)
The Owls worked to bring in speed and playmaking from both in state and Florida. The quarterback in the class is the 6-foot-2 Tyler Douglas, who has playmaking ability with his feet and arm. Three-star ATH Xavier Irvin is likely to end up catching passes from Temple quarterbacks but could also play DB with his terrific ball skills. The same can be said for three-star Richard Dandridge out of South Florida. Tampa Jesuit three-star Joquez Smith is a RB with excellent feet and lateral quickness. Three-star OT Kevin Terry out of Clearwater, Florida, has a very good frame to develop. Sunshine State three-star DBs Anthony Baxter and cornerback Kaleb Barnett join in-state three-star S Zyil Powell.
ESPN 300 commits: 0 | Previous ranking: 73
Group of 5 rank: 11
Top offensive commit: RB Manny Covey (three stars)
Top defensive commit: LB Trevor Carter (four stars)
Luke Fickell brought the Cincinnati program to new heights, but the transition to a new staff impacted the Bearcats’ class, which was in contention for a top-25 finish heading into the fall. This group is smaller now but still contains some strong talent. Four-star LB Carter was a big in-state win, and interior OL Evan Tengesdahl was another strong home-state pickup, as he took home positional MVP honors this spring at the Under Armour camp in Ohio. High three-star RB Covey is a nice pull out of Florida, as he can be a versatile player, possessing great ball skills and the ability to be a productive receiving target out of the backfield. Brady Drogosh moves well, can be accurate and will give the new staff a QB with a nice frame to develop.
ESPN 300 commits: 0 | Previous ranking: 74
Big Ten rank: 14 of 14
Top offensive commit: QB Broc Lowry (three stars)
Top defensive commit: DE Ta’Derius Collins (three stars)
The Hoosiers have a playmaking quarterback headed to Bloomington in Lowry out of Ohio. The 6-foot-3 signal-caller plays calmly and possesses the toughness to take a big hit and deliver accurate passes. Three-star offensive linemen Tyler Jeffries, William Larkins and Austin Barrett are Lowry’s future protectors. Three-star TE Sam West is an in-state prospect with length and soft hands in traffic. ESPN JC50 safety Tyrik McDaniel is a playmaker with range. Three-star ATH Orlando Greenlow possesses as much upside as any in the Hoosiers’ class.
ESPN 300 commits: 0 | Previous ranking: 75
Pac-12 rank: 12 of 12
Top offensive commit: WR Nyziah Hunter (four stars)
Top defensive commit: LB Cade Uluave (three stars)
The Golden Bears addressed needs on the defensive side of the ball under coach Justin Wilcox. While three-star LB Uluave will bring the hat in the run game in impressive fashion, it’s the defensive end position that had to be addressed in numbers. Four three-star ends are in the class, led by 6-foot-4, 240-pound long-limbed Frederick Williams out of Junipero Serra. ESPN JC50 CB Matthew Littlejohn will likely hit the field before all others. Offensive skill help comes in the form of in-state three-star WR Hunter and three-star TE Ben Marshall out of Tennessee. Both players can leave their feet to win 50-50 jump balls and make difficult catches in traffic over the middle. Punter Ethan Baxter will challenge for a starting job quickly.
Conference rankings
ACC:
1. Miami (5)
2. Clemson (11)
3. Florida State (18)
4. North Carolina (29)
5. Louisville (33)
6. NC State (39)
7. Pittsburgh (48)
8. Boston College (50)
9. Wake Forest (52)
10. Duke (53)
11. Virginia Tech (54)
12. Georgia Tech (59)
13. Virginia (68)
14. Syracuse (unranked)
Big 12:
1. Texas (3)
2. Oklahoma (4)
3. TCU (19)
4. Texas Tech (24)
5. Baylor (35)
6. Kansas State (40)
7. Iowa State (42)
8. West Virginia (44)
9. Oklahoma State (61)
10. Kansas (69)
Big Ten:
1. Ohio State (9)
2. Penn State (15)
3. Michigan (17)
4. Nebraska (25)
5. Michigan State (26)
6. Maryland (34)
7. Illinois (41)
8. Iowa (45)
9. Northwestern (47)
10. Wisconsin (49)
11. Minnesota (55)
12. Rutgers (57)
13. Purdue (63)
14. Indiana (74)
Pac-12:
1. Oregon (8)
2. USC (10)
3. Utah (20)
4. Colorado (23)
5. Washington (28)
6. UCLA (30)
7. Arizona (36)
8. Stanford (39)
9. Arizona State (46)
10. Oregon State (58)
11. Washington State (66)
12. California (75)
SEC:
1. Alabama (1)
2. Georgia (2)
3. LSU (6)
4. Florida (12)
5. Texas A&M (13)
6. South Carolina (15)
7. Tennessee (16)
8. Auburn (21)
9. Arkansas (22)
10. Mississippi State (27)
11. Ole Miss (30)
12. Kentucky (34)
13. Missouri (37)
14. Vanderbilt (51)
Scorecard | 2022 class rankings | 2021 class rankings | 2020 class rankings
