The race for the No. 1 prospect in the nation continues on after Oregon visit

Jackson Cantwell, the top-ranked player in the 2026 recruiting class, is set to announce his college decision on May 13, with Oregon, Georgia, Ohio State, and Miami as his final contenders. But first, Cantwell will visit each campus and make sure he is making the right decision. In the past weekend, Cantwell visited Oregon and while the May 13 date should still be the commitment time, we may have a new leader.

""This trip to Oregon was Cantwell’s best of the process. The development at the point of attack and where they’re at as a program on the field certainly excites. Testimonials from former players, the branding and NIL opportunities, competing in track and field, at the very least has put Oregon right there with Georgia.""

Steve Wilfong

The visit included interactions with head coach Dan Lanning, offensive line coach A'lique Terry, and former Oregon lineman Jackson Powers-Johnson, now with the Las Vegas Raiders. Cantwell's father, Christian, expressed admiration for Oregon's commitment to player development and the personalized attention his son received. Cantwell's recruitment also includes his dual-sport aspirations. He is a nationally ranked shot put and discus thrower. While he has downplayed the influence of track and field on his decision, Oregon's storied track program could be a factor.

But despite Oregon's efforts, Cantwell is still scheduled to visit Georgia on May 10, just days before his decision and the interest remains strong for the Bulldogs' program.

As the May 13 announcement approaches, all four programs remain hopeful, but unfortunately for Miami and Ohio State, Georgia and Oregon appear to have the edge in securing the nation's top offensive line prospect.​ Miami does seem to be ahead of Ohio State in terms of this race because of their stability with offensive line coaching, but it might not be enough for the Canes to catch Georgia and Oregon.