In easily the biggest recruiting shocker of the 2025 cycle, 5-star offensive tackle Jackson Cantwell is Miami-bound. Moments ago, the highly-touted OT announced his commitment to Miami football and it's a decision that people are going to be celebrating for quite some time.
Previously, the Georgia Bulldogs were considered the clear-cut favorites to land Cantwell. He was just in Athens for a recent visit and 5-star UGA quarterback commit Jared Curtis was working overtime to help Kirby Smart out. However, Mario Cristobal and Co. never stopped making Cantwell feel like a priority.
Oregon was reported to be pushing strongly for a commitment from Cantwell over the last couple of weeks as well, but the only predictions that ever came in for the talented tackle were in favor of Georgia and Miami. Ohio State was mentioned as a potential long shot for a Cantwell commitment too, as the Buckeyes were also a finalist.
Cantwell is a foundational player for the 2026 Miami class. Miami had the 18th-ranked class in the 247Sports composite rankings and was 11th in the On3 database prior to Cantwell's decision that just came in.
BREAKING: Five-Star Plus+ OT Jackson Cantwell has Committed to Miami, he tells me for @on3recruits
— Hayes Fawcett (@Hayesfawcett3) May 13, 2025
The No. 1 Recruit in the ‘26 Class chose the Hurricanes over Georgia, Oregon, & Ohio State
“Southwest Missouri ➡️ South Beach #GoCanes x #NSGB”https://t.co/5y15Hop09Q pic.twitter.com/xsErPaZ0lD
5-star OT Jackson Cantwell committing to Miami is massive for Mario Cristobal
With Cantwell on board for Miami, he gives the Hurricanes a five-star prospect in all four full recruiting cycles under Cristobal. With Miami expected to lose three starting offensive linemen after the 2025 season, Cantwell will be expected to start immediately as a true freshman in 2026.
Cristobal and offensive line coach Alex Mirabal have frequently started their players as true freshmen. Miami right tackle Francis Mauigoa has started all 26 games in the past two seasons. Cantwell should be ready to step in and play at a high level immediately.
Cantwell becomes the 10th known pledge for Cristobal's 2026 class. According to the 247Sports Composite, he's ranked the No. 1 offensive tackle in the country and the No. 1 player overall. This indeed is a huge commitment for Cristobal, with a statement being sent.