Alabama and Ohio State continue to lead the pack as the start of the early signing period rapidly approaches, but behind them is significant movement, including within the top-five.
LSU is positioning itself for a second straight top-five class as it bumps up to No. 3. The Tigers, who recently added a verbal from the top-rated safety in-state, Sage Ryan, also landed the No. 1 ranked safety in the nation in Derrick Davis Jr., a fast, physical player who can be a multi-faceted defensive weapon for them.
Georgia, which sat outside the top-10 at the start of October has been able to surge up the rankings and into the top-five. The Bulldogs, who have strung together four-straight top-three classes, have been able to ascend with vital in-state commitments like OT Amarius Mims and most recently Smael Mondon, the top-rated prospect in the Peach State. The five-star is a lengthy and athletic prospect with a high ceiling for development.
As the result of landing multiple commitments, including from a pair of four-star's from Florida in CB Philip Riley and OT Caleb Johnson, Notre Dame was able to break into the top-10.
While Cincinnati battles for a College Football Playoff berth, the Bearcats are working on the top-rated class among all Group of 5 programs. Sitting at No. 45, recent commits include high three-star DE Zeiqui Lawton, a strong player with quick feet and active hands who also had several Power 5 offers.
1. Alabama Crimson Tide
ESPN 300 commits: 17 | Previous ranking: 1 
Top offensive commit: OT Tommy Brockermeyer (No. 2)
Top defensive commit: DE Dallas Turner (No. 12)
The Crimson Tide started lower in the class rankings because of a lack of commitments, but their run to the No. 1 spot has been impressive. They are assembling arguably their best offensive line class under Nick Saban, which includes five-star OTs J.C. Latham and Tommy Brockermeyer, as well as No. 1 center James Brockermeyer. Flipping ESPN 300 quarterback Jalen Milroe from Texas fills a major need, and he compares favorably with former Ohio State QB J.T. Barrett. Saban went back to the Sunshine State for a pair of wideouts in ESPN 300s Jacorey Brooks and Agiye Hall, and athlete Christian Leary might be the fastest player in pads in Florida. The Crimson Tide also landed five-star edge defender Dallas Turner out of South Florida. Other versatile defenders in the fold include ESPN 300 in-state OLBs Deontae Lawson and Ian Jackson, as well as Louisiana ESPN 300 S Kaine Williams. ESPN 300 DE Monkell Goodwine is the latest nationally touted prospect from Maryland to pick Alabama. ESPN 300 S/ATH Kadarius Calloway was a terrific flip from Mississippi State, and in-state ESPN 300 ATH Ga'Quincy McKinstry projects to play cornerback in Tuscaloosa.
2. Ohio State Buckeyes
ESPN 300 commits: 16 | Previous ranking: 2
Top offensive commit: RB TreVeyon Henderson (No. 9)
Top defensive commit: DE Jack Sawyer (No. 1)
Ryan Day signed the No. 5-ranked class in February, and he is competing for his first No. 1 class as a head coach. A pair of five-stars headline the class in No. 1 overall prospect Jack Sawyer, an in-state defensive end, and Virginia running back TreVeyon Henderson. The signal-caller is ESPN 300 Kyle McCord, and he will throw to high school teammate Marvin Harrison Jr. at the next level. The Buckeyes' class is built with players from across the nation, with ESPN 300 guard Donovan Jackson from the Houston area, ESPN 300 CB Jakailin Johnson out of Missouri, ESPN 300 RB Evan Pryor out of North Carolina, ESPN 300 WR Denzel Burke out of Arizona, ESPN 300 ATH Andre Turrentine out of Tennessee and ESPN 300 ATH Jantzen Dunn from Kentucky. Flipping Peach State ESPN 300 CB Jordan Hancock from Clemson was yet another national flex for the Buckeyes. Going to Virginia for ESPN 300 DT Tyleik Williams was a nice rebound after losing Tunmise Adeleye. In-state ESPN 300 prospects in the fold are DT Mike Hall, WR Jayden Ballard, ILB Reid Carrico and OT Ben Christman
3. LSU Tigers
ESPN 300 commits: 15 | Previous ranking: 4 
Top offensive commit: OT Garrett Dellinger (No. 31)
Top defensive commit: S Derrick Davis Jr. (No. 26)
The defending national champions headed into this cycle with a tidal wave of momentum and have capitalized in neighboring Texas, landing ESPN 300 WR JoJo Earle and ESPN 300 OLB/DE Landon Jackson. ESPN 300 QB Garrett Nussmeier was another huge win out of the Lone Star State over Big Ten, ACC and Big 12 programs. The Tigers showed their national reach by going north to reel in ESPN 300 RB Corey Kiner from Ohio and ESPN 300 OT Garrett Dellinger out of Michigan. ESPN 300 playmaking OLB Raesjon Davis was a huge win out of California on Jan. 1, and July 4 brought a victory in Florida, with ESPN 300 edge rusher Keanu Koht picking the Tigers over Alabama, Florida and Miami. ESPN 300 Peach State CB Nathaniel Wiggins fits the mold of former LSU all-league cornerbacks. In-state ESPN 300 WR Chris Hilton adds some elite quickness to the class, while in-state ESPN 300 ATH/S Sage Ryan was a big win over Alabama. Another key in-state keep was four-star WR Jack Bech, who is one of the top senior risers nationally.
4. Georgia Bulldogs
ESPN 300 commits: 13 | Previous ranking: 7
Top offensive commit: OT Amarius Mims (No. 19)
Top defensive commit: ATH Smael Mondon (No. 11)
The Bulldogs are in the mix for an 11th straight top-10 class after keeping ESPN 300 in-state QB Brock Vandagriff close to home. ESPN 300 Lovasea Carroll will be a nice offensive weapon for the staff with his ability as a runner and strong ball skills as a receiving target. After signing a strong OL class for 2020, Georgia is adding more talent to that unit with several more ESPN 300 pickups, including top-10 OT Micah Morris and Dylan Fairchild. Three-star WR Jackson Meeks is an under-the-radar name to remember down the line. On defense, ESPN 300 S David Daniel is one of the nation's best at his position, and in-state ESPN 300 ILB Chaz Chambliss starred at Under Armour Ray Lewis' RL52 Camp prior to his junior season. Georgia went to South Carolina to land ESPN 300 DE Tyrion Ingram-Dawkins and to Alabama for four-star CB Kamari Lassiter.
5. Oregon Ducks
ESPN 300 commits: 14 | Previous ranking: 3 
Top offensive commit: WR Isaiah Brevard (No. 58)
Top defensive commit: CB Jaylin Davies (No. 156)
Coming off a Rose Bowl victory and top-5 AP finish, the Ducks are pushing to finish with their highest-ranked class in over a decade. They went to Arizona for their quarterback, ESPN 300 Ty Thompson. Bracing to lose standout OL Penei Sewell, the Ducks are doing an excellent job addressing the offensive line. They landed ESPN 300 OLs Bram Walden and Jonah Miller from Arizona and returned to Sewell's home state of Utah for more big OL gets with one of the nation's top center prospects in Jackson Light and ESPN 300 OT Kingsley Suamataia. The July 4 verbal of ESPN 300 WR Isaiah Brevard marks the second straight year that the Ducks have gone to Mississippi for a talented offensive prospect. ESPN 300 Dont'e Thornton gives the class three top-15 WR commits. The Ducks continue to have a big presence in the vital recruiting ground of California, landing ESPN 300s Troy Franklin, Kyron Ware-Hudson, Jaylin Davies and Seven McGee, all of whom are among the state's top playmakers on both sides of the ball. ESPN 300 ILB Keith Brown was a huge in-state victory.
6. Clemson Tigers
ESPN 300 commits: 15 | Previous ranking: 5
Top offensive commit: RB Will Shipley (No. 21)
Top defensive commit: OLB Jeremiah Trotter Jr. (No. 7)
Coach Dabo Swinney is locked in on Clemson's seventh straight top-10 class with a talented group lower on numbers but strong in quality. Five-star OLB Jeremiah Trotter Jr., whose father was an NFL veteran, is one of the nation's top playmakers and could be a quick contributor. The Tigers went into Tennessee to grab Tee Higgins three classes ago, then returned in the 2021 class to land ESPN 300 TE Jake Briningstool and ESPN 300 OG Dietrick Pennington. ESPN 300 WR Beaux Collins out of California was the go-to target last season for Clemson rising freshman QB D.J. Uiagalelei. ESPN 300 DE Cade Denhoff was a big win out of Florida, as was ESPN 300 OT Marcus Tate. Neighboring Georgia remains crucial for Clemson, as the Tigers will bring in ESPN 300 LB Barrett Carter, ESPN 300 WR Dacari Collins and four-star RB Phil Mafah. ESPN 300 C Ryan Linthicum was a Maryland high school teammate of 2020 five-star Bryan Bresee. Versatile ESPN 300 RB Will Shipley was a huge May win out of neighboring North Carolina, as were ESPN 300 DE Zaire Patterson and big-bodied No. 4 DT Payton Page. Four-star QB and one-time Georgia baseball verbal commit Bubba Chandler has emerged as the top sleeper prospect in the country.
7. Florida Gators
ESPN 300 commits: 13 | Previous ranking: 6
Top offensive commit: QB Carlos Del Rio (No. 57)
Top defensive commit: CB Jason Marshall (No. 42)
Dan Mullen's third consecutive top-10 class in Gainesville is a near lock coming off back-to-back 10-win seasons and top-10 AP poll finishes, as well as the hiring of ace recruiter Tim Brewster. Brewster immediately addressed the need at tight end with ESPN 300s Gage Wilcox and Nick Elksnis. There are two quarterbacks in the class: ESPN 300 Carlos Del Rio and four-star Texan Jalen Kitna. Two huge early August wins came from South Florida in ESPN 300 DBs and high school teammates Jason Marshall and Corey Collier. A pair of ESPN 300 WRs are in the fold in Trevonte Rucker (from an hour's drive away) and Georgia playmaker Daejon Reynolds. A third ESPN 300 WR is Marcus Burke from Jacksonville powerhouse Trinity Christian. ESPN 300 in-state ATH Charles Montgomery could play on either side of the ball. ESPN 300 Chief Borders is a versatile jumbo athlete who projects as an OLB. ESPN 300 DE Jeremiah Williams will bring edge rush ability. A solid secondary group is made up of LSU flip Dakota Mitchell and four-star S Donovan McMillon. Four-star DE Justus Boone, a big win out of South Carolina, has a high ceiling.
8. Tennessee Volunteers
ESPN 300 commits: 9 | Previous ranking: 8
Top offensive commit: WR Julian Nixon (No. 175)
Top defensive commit: OLB Terrence Lewis (No. 10)
The 2021 cycle will be Jeremy Pruitt's best in Knoxville after signing back-to-back top-20 classes. This class is headlined by five-star linebacker Terrence Lewis out of Florida. Tennessee also has big wins out of Alabama in ESPN 300 pass-rusher Dylan Brooks and ESPN 300 WR Jordan Mosley. Georgia is most important to the Volunteers' out-of-state efforts on an annual basis, and ESPN 300 WR Julian Nixon and ESPN 300 RB Cody Brown are in the fold. North Carolina is always important for Tennessee as well, and ESPN 300 ATH Kaemen Marley is one of the most versatile prospects in the class. Four-star ATH Damarius McGhee will bring excellent playmaking ability. Key in-state wins are four-star WR Walker Merrill, RB Elijah Howard and TE Hudson Wolfe. Three-star OT Colby Smith has as much upside as anyone in the class, but it was the flip of in-state three-star OT J'Marion Gooch from Auburn that won the headlines. Four-star William Parker is another talented in-state OL committed.
9. Notre Dame Fighting Irish
ESPN 300 commits: 10 | Previous ranking: 12
Top offensive commit: QB Tyler Buchner (No. 39)
Top defensive commit: DT Gabriel Rubio (No. 161)
The Fighting Irish have the makings of yet another top-15 class, led by ESPN 300 signal-caller Tyler Buchner out of California and ESPN 300 playmakers Cane Berrong and WRs Lorenzo Styles Jr., Jayden Thomas and Deion Colzie, who is back in the mix after decommitting in March. In addition to the No.1 TE-H Berrong, they added two other big-bodied TEs to their class in three-stars Joe Alt and Mitchell Evans. ESPN 300 Blake Fisher heads to South Bend, Indiana, in the mold of former Irish offensive line standouts. The same can be said for ESPN 300 OG Rocco Spindler. Three-star Pat Coogan is another OL in the fold. Defensive line is key in the 2021 cycle, and ESPN 300 Gabriel Rubio from Missouri and three-star DE Jason Onye out of Rhode Island were solid early wins.
10. Miami Hurricanes
ESPN 300 commits: 9 | Previous ranking: 10
Top offensive commit: WR Jacolby George (No. 101)
Top defensive commit: DT Leonard Taylor (No. 6)
Following a disappointing 2019 season, Manny Diaz has the Hurricanes positioned for a top-10 class. Keeping ESPN 300 S/OLB James Williams home over Georgia was a huge win, as was beating out Florida for local five-star DT Leonard Taylor. ESPN 300 OG/C Laurence Seymore was dominant at Under Armour Camp Miami, as was ESPN 300 DT Savion Collins. Four-star RB/WR Brashard Smith, a one-time Florida Gators verbal commit, is an ideal playmaker with versatility for new offensive coordinator Rhett Lashlee. Getting ESPN 300 WR Jacolby George back in the fold was big, as was keeping ESPN 300 WR Romello Brinson home. ESPN 300 four-star TE Elijah Arroyo comes from Texas and is the only four-star commit currently from out of state. Within the front seven, three-star DT Allan Haye possesses quickness and power; ESPN 300 DE Jabari Ishmael will bring edge rush ability from down the road at Columbus High; and four-star OLB Chase Smith, out of Palm Bay, has a coach's dream frame to develop.
11. USC Trojans
ESPN 300 commits: 8 | Previous ranking: 9
Top offensive commit: QB Jake Garcia (No. 18)
Top defensive commit: OLB Ma'a Gaoteote (No. 94)
After a dismal 2020 class by USC standards, the Trojans have rebounded well in the 2021 cycle and are fighting for a top-10 finish. ESPN 300 QB Jake Garcia is popular with other top prospects in SoCal and is joined by former high school teammate and ESPN 300 ATH Anthony Beavers. The June commitment of Miller Moss gives the Trojans a pair of ESPN 300 QBs in the class. The Trojans reeled in Sunshine State ESPN 300 TE Michael Trigg over SEC powers. ESPN 300 WR Quaydarius Davis out of the Lone Star State was a previous Texas verbal, and four-star CB Philip Riley was a previous Notre Dame verbal. ESPN 300 OLB Ma'a Gaoteote has a last name familiar to USC fans. ESPN 300 ATH Julien Simon out of Washington is likely to find a long-term home at linebacker. ESPN 300 OG Jay Toia is a good get in a tackle-heavy 2020 class. Four-star in-state Prophet Brown will be another skilled playmaker to add to the offense. Four-star safety Xamarion Gordon is a playmaker from California. The Trojans went to the East Coast to snag upside DE Colin Mobley.
12. North Carolina Tar Heels
ESPN 300 commits: 10 | Previous ranking: 11
Top offensive commit: QB Drake Maye (No. 45)
Top defensive commit: DE Keeshawn Silver (No. 8)
Mack Brown signed the No. 16-ranked class in the 2020 cycle, but the 2021 class will be the one Tar Heels fans look toward as Brown's most impactful in Chapel Hill because of the many in-state wins. Five-star DE Keeshawn Silver and ESPN 300 QB and Alabama flip Drake Maye headline the class. Linebacker is a key need, and the staff delivered with ESPN 300s Power Echols and Raneiria Dillworth. Four-star safety Gabriel Stephens probably will transition to outside linebacker. ESPN 300s Tymir Brown and DeAndre Boykins are needed playmakers in the secondary. ESPN 300 WR Gavin Blackwell and four-star Kobe Paysour will bring size to the wide receiver room. Versatile ESPN 300 Kamarro Edmonds could play running back or safety at the next level. Three-star WR J.J. Jones is a future playmaker out of South Carolina. Keeping ESPN 300 OL Diego Pounds home was another big in-state victory. Three-star DE Trevion Stevenson is full of upside and adds even more depth to the defensive front after a flip from Pittsburgh.
13. Oklahoma Sooners
ESPN 300 commits: 8 | Previous ranking: 13
Top offensive commit: QB Caleb Williams (No. 15)
Top defensive commit: OLB Clayton Smith (No. 90)
A fifth straight top-10 class is a possibility for the Sooners as they work to add more offensive firepower. Top-rated QB Caleb Williams leads their talented offensive haul, which also includes No. 1 WR Mario Williams Jr., one-time Texas wide receiver verbal Billy Bowman Jr. and ESPN 300 WRs Cody Jackson and Jalil Farooq, giving the Sooners four of the top 25 wideouts in the class. Defense is also being addressed: ESPN 300 OLB Clayton Smith is a top-10 prospect at the position and ESPN 300 ATH Ethan Downs projects to defensive end. The Sooners beat out many of the nation's elite programs for Virginia ESPN 300 DE Kelvin Gilliam. Additional defensive talent includes three-stars DE Nathan Rawlins-Kibonge out of Oregon, ATH/OLB Danny Stutsman out of the Sunshine State and in-state CB Jordan Mukes. If ESPN 300 CB Latrell McCutchin returns to form after a serious knee injury, the class will be even better long term. Three-star Caleb Johnson will be a senior riser, and will begin his career at cornerback.
14. Michigan Wolverines
ESPN 300 commits: 10 | Previous ranking: 14
Top offensive commit: QB J.J. McCarthy (No. 23)
Top defensive commit: LB Branden Jennings (No. 67)
The Wolverines haven't finished outside the top 20 in the class rankings since 2015, and this year is expected to continue the streak. Jim Harbaugh landed his quarterback early when ESPN 300 J.J. McCarthy committed in May 2019. A trio of ESPN 300 OLs -- OT Giovanni El-Hadi, C Raheem Anderson II and OG Greg Crippen -- will provide pass protection. They added legitimate home run-threat speed at WR in ESPN Xavier Worthy out of California. ESPN 300 OLBs Junior Colson, an athletic and versatile defender, and Jaydon Hood were huge wins out of Tennessee and Florida, respectively. ESPN 300 DE Quintin Somerville was a huge win out of Arizona over every Pac-12 program and three-star DEs T.J. Guy and Dominick Giudice add more quality depth to that position. The October addition of ESPN 300 LB Brandon Jennings out of Florida gives them a big punishing defender who can help stop stuff the run. Four-star Kechaun Bennett could play DE or OLB in Ann Arbor. Three-star S Rod Moore out of Ohio and three-star OLB Tyler McLaurin from Illinois have playmaking abilities.
15. Texas Longhorns
ESPN 300 commits: 9 | Previous ranking: 16
Top offensive commit: ATH Ja'Tavion Sanders (No. 13)
Top defensive commit: CB Ishmael Ibraheem (No. 113)
The Longhorns' disappointing 2019 season slowed the early recruiting momentum in the 2021 cycle, but the class still has a legitimate chance at the top 10, with five-star ATH Ja'Tavion Sanders on the verbal list. Four-star WR Jaden Alexis is blessed with vertical speed and quickness, and three-star TE Juan Davis displays tremendous hands. Small-school RB Jonathan Brooks has excellent feet in the hole and superior vision. ESPN 300 OLB Derrick Harris Jr. and ESPN 300 OG Hayden Conner were two more key wins out of the Houston area. Three-star Sunshine State center Michael Myslinski will be a multiyear starter in Austin. After QB Jalen Milroe flipped to Alabama, Texas wasted no time in flipping three-star QB Charles Wright from Iowa State. ESPN 300 DE Jordon Thomas missed his junior year because of injury, and he is a candidate to move inside at the next level. ESPN 300 CB Ishmael Ibraheem and ESPN 300 S J.D. Coffey committed on the same day, June 15. The staff returned to the West Coast again, reeling in ESPN 300 CB Jamier Johnson over Arizona State and UCLA.
16. Texas A&M Aggies
ESPN 300 commits: 7 | Previous ranking: 15
Top offensive commit: WR Shadrach Banks (No. 98)
Top defensive commit: S Kendal Daniels (No. 171)
Texas A&M continues to ascend on the recruiting trail under Jimbo Fisher. ESPN 300 QB Eli Stowers is an elite player who has high-jumped 6 feet, 10 inches. ESPN 300 WR Shadrach Banks is a versatile athlete and could develop into a linebacker. The Aggies went to South Florida for Miami Central RB Amari Daniels and ATH/CB Yulkeith Brown. ESPN 300 DE Jahzion Harris and ESPN 300 DT Victory Vaka were big out-of-state wins within the front seven. ESPN 300 DT Marcus Burris and ATH/CB Dreyden Norwood both look to rebound from injury. Three-star OLB Kaci Seegars out of North Carolina has nice upside. Four-star versatile DB Deuce Harmon was a head-to-head win over Texas, and ESPN 300 S Kendal Daniels was a huge win out of Oklahoma over Big 12 and SEC competition. ESPN 300 Reuben Fatheree II and Matthew Wykoff are talented in-state OLs in the fold.
17. Wisconsin Badgers
ESPN 300 commits: 6 | Previous ranking: 17
Top offensive commit: OT Nolan Rucci (No. 33)
Top defensive commit: DE T.J. Bollers (No. 201)
The Badgers are in search of a third consecutive top-30 class under Paul Chryst coming on the heels of a five-year run that has averaged more than 10 wins per season on the field. A trio of ESPN 300 OLs are in the fold in OT Nolan Rucci from Pennsylvania, Riley Mahlman from Minnesota and OT J.P. Benzschawel from within the state. Another in-state ESPN 300 on the commit list is safety Hunter Wohler. ESPN 300 DE T.J. Bollers was a huge win out of Iowa in June. A pair of in-state running backs -- Jackson Acker and Loyal Crawford -- look to be next in line in Madison. Three-star DLs Darryl Peterson and Mike Jarvis fit the mold of players developed at the position in recent years.
18. Auburn Tigers
ESPN 300 commits: 6 | Previous ranking: 18
Top offensive commit: OG Jaeden Roberts (No. 95)
Top defensive commit: DT Lee Hunter (No. 59)
After inking the No. 7-ranked class, one full of defensive talent, in the 2020 cycle, the Tigers are loading up on defense again in 2021 with ESPN 300 DTs Lee Hunter and Marquis Robinson, along with Sunshine State ESPN 300 Ahmari Harvey and four-star cornerbacks Phillip O'Brien Jr. and Tar'varish Dawson. Another frame to develop on the defensive front will be Tobechi Okoli, who has a quick first step at 6-foot-5, 250 pounds. ESPN 300 QB and previous Virginia Tech verbal commit Dematrius Davis and ESPN 300 RB Armoni Goodwin headline the offensive side of the ball. Auburn's group of talented offensive linemen includes ESPN 300 OG Jaeden Roberts, Caleb Johnson and Garner Langlo. Three-star TE Landen King was a previous verbal commit to Texas.
19. California Golden Bears
ESPN 300 commits: 4 | Previous ranking: 20
Top offensive commit: WR J. Michael Sturdivant (No. 104)
Top defensive commit: DE Derek Wilkins (four stars)
A talented class of offensive players has vaulted the Bears into the top 25. ESPN 300 QB Kai Millner will have some excellent players to throw to in the future in ESPN 300 Lone Star State WR J. Michael Sturdivant, ESPN 300 WR Mavin Anderson and ESPN 300 TE Jermaine Terry. Four-star DE Derek Wilkins was a terrific pickup over Pac-12 competition, as was four-star OLB Kaleb Elarms-Orr. The class also is adding three-star DEs Akili Calhoun and Myles Williams, three-star OLB Moses Oladejo (who has plenty of upside) and 6-foot-2 three-star CB Kaleb Higgins. Three-star S Hunter Barth out of Arizona could end up at outside linebacker long term. Three-star OTs Bastian Swinney and William Reed both have ideal frames to develop over time, and three-star OG Ryan Lange could be ready to push for playing time early.
20. Florida State Seminoles
ESPN 300 commits: 6 | Previous ranking: 19
Top offensive commit: QB Luke Altmyer (No. 116)
Top defensive commit: CB Omarion Cooper (No. 136)
Mike Norvell rallied in his first cycle in Tallahassee with a top-20 class, and he is working for another top-20 finish. ESPN 300 QB Luke Altmyer was a needed win out of Mississippi. Peach State four-star Bryson Estes and in-state three-star Kimo Makaneole are very good interior prospects at a position of need, and ESPN 300 OT Rod Orr also helps address the demand along the O-line. Three-star TE Jackson West has terrific hands and body control, as does 6-foot-5 four-star ESPN 300 WR Malik McClain. Help at cornerback will come from in-state ESPN 300 Omarion Cooper, Lone Star State ESPN 300 Hunter Washington and four-star Under Armour Camp Miami standout Kevin Knowles. The Seminoles beat out SEC foes for Pelican State four-star DE Byron Turner Jr., and the same can be said for in-state ESPN 300 DE Shambre Jackson.
21. Maryland Terrapins
ESPN 300 commits: 4 | Previous ranking: 21
Top offensive commit: WR Tai Felton (three stars)
Top defensive commit: OLB Demeioun Robinson (No. 35)
After inking the No. 33-ranked class in February, Mike Locksley and staff are looking to ascend into the top 25 in the 2021 cycle with a great start close to home. Getting the state's top-ranked prospect, Demeioun Robinson, on board in late March was huge. Robinson is joined on the defensive side by area ESPN 300 prospects Antwain Littleton and Taizse Johnson. Four-star DT Tommy Akingbesote has as much upside as any in the class. Area three-stars verbally committed are DE ZionAngelo Shockley, tight ends Joseph Bearns and Leron Husbands, and CB Dante Trader Jr. Junior college OLB Gereme Spraggins will be an impact player.
22. Washington Huskies
ESPN 300 commits: 4 | Previous ranking: 22
Top offensive commit: QB Sam Huard (No. 14)
Top defensive commit: OLB Will Latu (No. 289)
The Huskies' class got off to a great start to the 2021 cycle when ESPN 300 QB Sam Huard committed back in 2018. The class began the rise into the top 25 with the June and early July commitments of ESPN OLB Will Latu, ESPN 300 OG Owen Prentice and ESPN 300 WR Jabez Tinae. Another four-star in the class is Utah DT Voi Tunuufi. Three-star RB Caleb Berry was a nice grab out of the Lone Star State, as was three-star CB Dyson McCutcheon out of California. Another CB from California in the class is long-armed Zakhari Spears.
23. Arkansas Razorbacks
ESPN 300 commits: 2 | Previous ranking: 23
Top offensive commit: ATH A.J. Green (No. 188)
Top defensive commit: OLB Jermaine Hamilton-Jordan (three stars)
Sam Pittman signed the No. 29 class in short order in February, and the Razorbacks now sit in the top 30 again. The state of Oklahoma has been key in the 2021 class, with ESPN 300 ATH A.J. Green, who is projected to contribute on offense, four-star RB Javion Hunt and three-star WR Bryce Stephens all jumping on board. ESPN 300 WR Ketron Jackson was a huge win out of Texas over the Longhorns. Another four-star in the class is Lone Star State QB Lucas Coley. On the offensive line, in-state Terry Wells and Cole Carson out of Texas are two quality OT prospects. The staff has filled a linebacker need well with three-stars Jermaine Hamilton-Jordan, Marco Avant and Christopher Paul Jr. Three-star CBs Keuan Parker and Chase Lowery have quick feet and reaction.
24. Minnesota Golden Gophers
ESPN 300 commits: 2 | Previous ranking: 25
Top offensive commit: QB Athan Kaliakmanis (No. 267)
Top defensive commit: CB Avante Dickerson (No. 47)
A fast start for the Gophers has slowed, but a solid class in the top 30 remains, headlined by ESPN 300 QB Athan Kaliakmanis and No. 3-ranked CB Avante Dickerson. Another four-star DB in the fold is Steven Ortiz out of Arizona. Three-star RB Mar'Keise Irving was a nice grab out of Illinois. Three-star WR Brady Boyd catches lasers at Southlake Carroll from the No. 1 prospect in the country in 2022, Quinn Ewers. Long arms on the offensive line are on the way in the form of three-stars Logan Purcell, Austin Barber and Cameron James. The same can be said at DE with three-stars Austin Booker and Deven Eastern. Three-star DT Jacob Schuster, who was a very nice pickup out of Washington, can be a powerful and violent presence in the trenches.
25. NC State Wolfpack
ESPN 300 commits: 3 | Previous ranking: 24
Top offensive commit: QB Aaron McLaughlin (No. 51)
Top defensive commit: OLB Jordan Poole (No. 199)
The Wolfpack are not only back inside the top 40 but fighting their way toward a top-25 class. The group is led by ESPN 300 QB Aaron McLaughlin, ESPN 300 in-state WR Micah Crowell and ESPN 300 OLB Jordan Poole. Three more key in-state wins were four-star S Chase Hattley and three-star DEs Travali Price and Zyun Reeves. Three-star OLB Caden Fordham will be a multiyear starter in Raleigh. Three-star guard Thornton Gentry from South Carolina and Lyndon Cooper out of Georgia helped fill a key need in the class.
26. Iowa Hawkeyes
ESPN 300 commits: 3 | Previous ranking: 26
Top offensive commit: OT David Davidkov (No. 245)
Top defensive commit: OLB Justice Sullivan (No. 264)
The Hawkeyes are in line for a third straight top-40 class. It should come as no surprise that they have a talented group of offensive linemen committed in ESPN 300s David Davidkov and Connor Colby, four-star Gennings Dunker and three-star Beau Stephens. The beneficiary of that talented group will be versatile playmaker Arland Bruce IV out of Kansas. On defense, ESPN 300 OLB Justice Sullivan brings range and versatility. Defensive line is a key position of need, and the Hawkeyes filled it early with three-star DEs Max Llewellyn and Jeffrey Bowie, as well as DT Griffin Liddle.
27. Penn State Nittany Lions
ESPN 300 commits: 3 | Previous ranking: 28
Top offensive commit: OT Landon Tengwall (No. 87)
Top defensive commit: S Jaylen Reed (No. 250)
James Franklin continues to prove he's one of the nation's top recruiters. Four-star QB Christian Veilleux turned down offers from Clemson and Michigan, among others. ESPN OT Landon Tengwall will head to Penn State ready from day one, as will ESPN 300 S Jaylen Reed. Reed is joined on the verbal list from the state of Michigan by three-star CB Kalen King and three-star ILB Kobe King. Four-star DE Rodney McGraw was a nice flip from Indiana. ESPN 300 Zakee Wheatley and ATH Jeffrey Davis Jr. could be a factor on either side of the ball. Three-star TE Khalil Dinkins was a needed in-state victory over Big Ten foes.
28. Nebraska Cornhuskers
ESPN 300 commits: 2 | Previous ranking: 29
Top offensive commit: TE Thomas Fidone Jr. (No. 272)
Top defensive commit: OLB Randolph Kpai (No. 162)
After signing a top-25 class in February, Scott Frost and staff are seeking to climb the rankings in the 2021 cycle. They have filled a need at WR with four-star Kamonte Grimes out of Florida, Shawn Hardy out of Georgia and previous Virginia Tech verbal Latrell Neville from Texas. ESPN 300 TE Thomas Fidone Jr. was a key pickup, and he is joined by in-state three-star TE A.J. Rollins. On defense, ESPN 300 OLB Randolph Kpai and three-star Patrick Payton were nice wins over Big Ten and ACC competition. The signal-caller in the class is three-star Heinrich Haarberg.
29. Arizona State Sun Devils
ESPN 300 commits: 3 | Previous ranking: 27
Top offensive commit: WR Lonyatta Alexander (No. 300)
Top defensive commit: CB Isaiah Johnson (No. 182)
After signing the No. 23-ranked class in February, Herm Edwards and staff have the Sun Devils back near the top 25 with commitments from ESPN 300 CBs Isaiah Johnson and Tommi Hill. A third four-star in the class is WR Lonyatta Alexander. A pair of three-star prospects in OLB Jaydon Williams and C Ezra Oyetade were big wins out of the Lone Star State over Texas. Three-star QB Finn Collins and CB Robert Regan are strong evaluations out of California. Length to develop on defense comes in the form of three-stars Eric Gentry, and Pelican State DE Gharin Stansbury. Offensive line depth is increasing some with three-stars Austin Barry and legacy Isaia Glass.
30. Missouri Tigers
ESPN 300 commits: 2 | Previous ranking: 30
Top offensive commit: OT Connor Tollison (three stars)
Top defensive commit: DE Travion Ford (No. 139)
The Tigers are fighting to keep the best talent home. Winning out for in-state ESPN 300 Travion Ford was huge, as was keeping OT Connor Tollison home. The state of Texas is always important for the Tigers, and two three-star prospects, CB Darius Jackson and DE Jonathan Jones, both had Big 12 offers. ESPN 300 ILB Dameon Wilson was a big win out of the Tar Heel State in late June. The staff sought impact players on the defensive line, heading to the junior college ranks for DEs Shemar Pearl and Daniel Robledo.
31. Pittsburgh Panthers
ESPN 300 commits: 1 | Previous ranking: 31
Top offensive commit: RB Rodney Hammond (four stars)
Top defensive commit: DE Elliot Donald (No. 81)
The Panthers are in the top 40 after signing the No. 45 class in February. Keeping legacy ESPN 300 DT Elliot Donald was a must. Four-star RB Rodney Hammond out of Virginia should be an impact playmaker. A second RB out of Virginia in the class is three-star Malik Newton. Two more key in-state wins on the trail are three-star S Javon McIntyre and three-star DE Nahki Johnson. Three-star CB Khalil Anderson will bring very good change of direction, and three-star ILB Derrveron Maxwell-Black out of Florida is a hard hitter.
32. Mississippi State Bulldogs
ESPN 300 commits: 2 | Previous ranking: 32
Top offensive commit: QB Sawyer Robertson (No. 54)
Top defensive commit: S Myzel Williams (three stars)
Mike Leach's first full class in Starkville is led by ESPN 300 Lone Star State QB Sawyer Robertson, who turned down a Texas offer. Another ESPN 300 prospect from Texas is WR/ATH Theodore Knox. Not surprisingly, the class is top heavy with offensive weapons, including several talented WRs: in-state WR Brandon Buckhaulter, Pelican State three-star Malik Nabers and in-state three-star Jacobi Moore. Defense is represented as well with S Myzel Williams and OLB Timar Rogers. Juco defenders LB Navonteque Strong and CB Cortez Eatmon are expected to compete right away.
33. Virginia Cavaliers
ESPN 300 commits: 2 | Previous ranking: 33
Top offensive commit: QB Jacob Rodriguez (No. 209)
Top defensive commit: DE Josh McCarron (four stars)
The Cavaliers signed the No. 48-ranked class in 2020 and are in position for a higher finish in 2021. The staff made a long trip to Texas for ESPN 300 QB Jacob Rodriguez. Beating out North Carolina for in-state ESPN 300 OT Logan Taylor was huge. Four-star DE Josh McCarron brings edge rush ability. Three-star in-state OLB Michael Green brings good range and an ideal frame. Three-stars Hugh Laughlin, Ty Furnish and Charlie Patterson join Taylor to form a quality OL class.
34. Louisville Cardinals
ESPN 300 commits: 0 | Previous ranking: 34
Top offensive commit: OG Michael Gonzalez (four stars)
Top defensive commit: OLB Jaraye Williams (three stars)
Despite not having any ESPN 300 commits, the Cardinals have a solid group, led by four-star Tar Heel State RB Trevion Cooley and OG Michael Gonzalez. The class, full of out-of-state players, also includes key wins in Florida CB Rance Conner, Illinois three-star S Benjamin Perry, Washington three-star OLB Jaraye Williams, Georgia three-star DE Victoine Brown II and South Carolina WR Ahmari Huggins-Bruce. Also on the verbal list from the all-important state of Georgia are three-stars Kani Walker, S T.J. Quinn and OLB Jackson Hamilton.
35. Utah Utes
ESPN 300 commits: 3 | Previous ranking: 40
Top offensive commit: QB Peter Costelli (No. 194)
Top defensive commit: LB Ethan Calvert (No. 53)
The Utes continue to put together solid classes under Kyle Whittingham. They netted speedy ESPN 300 QB Peter Costelli, wide receiver Velltray Jefferson and three-star Elisha Lloyd, all from California. Four-star RB Ricky Parks and three-star TE Isaac Vaha are two more talented offensive prospects in the fold. Linebacker was a key position of need, and the staff hit it out of the park with ESPN 300 Mason Tufaga, as well as high three-stars Cole Bishop and Trey Reynolds.
36. Boston College Eagles
ESPN 300 commits: 1 | Previous ranking: 35
Top offensive commit: ATH Jamareeh Jones (three stars)
Top defensive commit: CB Clinton Burton Jr. (No. 74)
The Eagles are ascending on the trail in the 2021 cycle following a 2020 class that ranked No. 61 with very little time to build. Flipping ESPN 300 CB Clinton Burton Jr. from Florida was a massive victory, and he will team with top-50 CB commits Jalon Williams and Jalen Cheek to form a formidable secondary down the line. Another talented defender in the class is four-star DT Andre Porter. Three-star linebackers Trevin Wallace and Owen McGowan add to the defensive haul. On offense, three-star OTs Otto Hess and Ilija Krajnovic have terrific frames with which to work.
37. Oklahoma State Cowboys
ESPN 300 commits: 2 | Previous ranking: 36
Top offensive commit: WR Bryson Green (No. 169)
Top defensive commit: ILB Collin Oliver (No. 291)
The Cowboys have been a fixture in the top-40 range in the class rankings for years, and that remains the same in the 2021 cycle. They have a terrific group of wide receivers on the commit list in ESPN 300 Bryson Green; four-star Blaine Green from Allen High in Texas; speedy three-star Raymond Gay; sure-handed and undervalued athlete John Paul Richardson; and in-state three-star Jaden Bray out of Norman North High. Four-star OG Aden Kelley was a key in-state win over Big 12 and Big Ten programs. On defense, ESPN 300 ILB Collin Oliver and four-star OLB Donovan Stephens will have the opportunity to play right away.
38. Kentucky Wildcats
ESPN 300 commits: 2 | Previous ranking: 39
Top offensive commit: WR Dekel Crowdus Jr. (No. 227)
Top defensive commit: CB Adrian Huey (three stars)
The Wildcats' class is headlined by a pair of ESPN 300 in-state victories: WR Dekel Crowdus Jr. and OG Jager Burton. Two more in-state prospects in the class are three-star RB La'Vell Wright and S Jordan Lovett. The Peach State has been fruitful for the Wildcats in this cycle with three-star OLB Martez Thrower and three-star WR Chauncey Magwood. Adding more talent and size to the WR position are Christian Lewis and Armond Scott, who both stand at 6-foot-3. OG David Wohlabaugh and OT Paul Rodriguez join Burton in the offensive trenches. Three-star CB Adrian Huey was a premium position win out of Tennessee.
39. West Virginia Mountaineers
ESPN 300 commits: 2 | Previous ranking: 38
Top offensive commit: OT Wyatt Milum (No. 97)
Top defensive commit: OLB Ja'Corey Hammett (three stars)
The Mountaineers' top-40 class is headlined by keeping ESPN 300 OT Wyatt Milum home. A second ESPN 300 verbal in the class is WR Kaden Prather out of Maryland. Three-star RBs Jaylen Anderson and Justin Johnson will make for a solid combo in Morgantown. WVU went south for its QB in the 2021 cycle, reeling in three-star Will Crowder out of Alabama. Key edge prospects who have committed are three-stars Ja'Corey Hammett, Hammond Russell and Brayden Dudley.
40. Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets
ESPN 300 commits: 1 | Previous ranking: NR
Top offensive commit: WR James Blackstrain (No. 202)
Top defensive commit: DE Noah Collins (three stars)
Geoff Collins continues to rebuild a program on the offensive side of the ball and is taking steps to do so in the 2021 cycle with California three-star QB Chayden Peery, ESPN 300 Sunshine State WR James Blackstrain and 6-foot-5 in-state pass catcher Leo Blackburn. Four-star guard Weston Franklin and three-star tackle Jakiah Leftwich have the look of future starters. Defensive end is a key position of need filled with in-state three-stars Noah Collins and Joshua Robinson, as well as three-star Grey Carroll out of neighboring Tennessee. Keeping in-state safeties Sirad Bryant and Kaleb Edwards home was paramount.
41. Baylor Bears
ESPN 300 commits: 0 | Previous ranking: 37
Top offensive commit: WR Elijah Bean (four stars)
Top defensive commit: DE Sam Carrell (three stars)
The Bears have built an impressive first full class under Dave Aranda, headlined by a solid group of offensive linemen, including tackles Connor Heffernan and Ryan Lengyel, as well as long-armed G/C Tate Williams. Four-star Kyron Drones is the quarterback in the class and has a strong group of WRs on the verbal list in four-star Elijah Bean, Javon Gipson and Roderick Daniels. The defensive line need has been addressed with DE Sam Carrell, DT Byron Murphy II and DT Dakote Doyle. Defensive backs Cisco Caston, Devin Lemear and Romario Noel have scheme versatility.
42. Michigan State Spartans
ESPN 300 commits: 0 | Previous ranking: NR
Top offensive commit: RB Audric Estime (three stars)
Top defensive commit: DT Rayshaun Benny (four stars)
The Spartans continue to battle on the trail while contending with consistent recruiting powers Ohio State, Notre Dame, Michigan and Penn State in the region. Four-stars on defense headed to East Lansing are DT Rayshaun Benny, a versatile big man, and Ohio safety A.J. Kirk. Joining Benny on the defensive line are three-stars Tyson Watson and Derrick Harmon from in state. Three-star RB Audric Estime is a quality Big Ten fit, as is three-star QB Hampton Fay. The staff has hit Western Florida for three-star DBs Steffan Johnson and Charles Brantley.
43. Virginia Tech Hokies
ESPN 300 commits: 0 | Previous ranking: NR
Top offensive commit: ATH Jack Hollifield (four stars)
Top defensive commit: CB D.J. Harvey (three stars)
The Hokies are filling needs on defense and at wide receiver in the 2021 cycle, headlined by four-star Jack Hollifield, the younger brother of Virginia Tech starting linebacker Dax Hollifield. Three-star CB D.J. Harvey was a big win on the West Coast, as was versatile ATH Jaden Keller out of Tennessee. Wide receivers in the fold are three-star Da'Wain Lofton out of Texas and three-stars Will Johnson and Jaylen Jones. Long, rangy OLBs to be developed are Isi Etute and Keli Lawson from in state.
44. Rutgers Scarlet Knights
ESPN 300 commits: 0 | Previous ranking: NR
Top offensive commit: ATH Shawn Munnerlyn (four stars)
Top defensive commit: OLB Khayri Banton (three stars)
Greg Schiano is succeeding in turning the tide in state, with eight of the top 22 ranked prospects from the Garden State committed to staying home. Those key wins include three-star OLB Khayri Banton, three-star WR Carnell Davis, DE Keshon Griffin, CB Alijah Clark and ATH Jordan Thompson. Four-star ATH Shawn Munnerlyn out of Ohio was a big win over Big Ten and SEC foes. Trench help is on the way in three-stars G Tyler Needham, T Albert Reese, G Zaire Angoy and DT Ryan Keeler. Three-star DE Cam'Ron Stewart is a name to remember after some physical development.
45. Cincinnati Bearcats
ESPN 300 commits: 0 | Previous ranking: NR
Top offensive commit: OT Luke Collinsworth (three stars)
Top defensive commit: OLB Chamon Metayer (four stars)
Luke Fickell's team is on the rise on the field, and the recruiting returns continue to follow. Four-star OLB Chamon Metayer was a one-time Miami verbal, while three-star DE Zeiqui Lawton had Big 12 and ACC offers. Three-star OLs Luke Collinsworth, OG Mao Glynn and OG Landon Fickell all have terrific frames. Three-star RB Myles Montgomery will bring some Sunshine State quickness to the fold. Three-star OLBs Jack Dingle and Leroy Bowers will make early impacts. Three-star CBs Jonah Lytle and Iesa Jarmon both have height and length.
46. Ole Miss Rebels
ESPN 300 commits: 3 | Previous ranking: NR
Top offensive commit: WR Bralon Brown (No. 149)
Top defensive commit: S Dink Jackson (No. 266)
Lane Kiffin is reeling in talent out of the Sunshine State, led by ESPN 300 WR Bralon Brown out of the same high school as current standout WR Elijah Moore. Joining Brown at wide receiver are one-time UCF verbal Cameron Brady and Drew Donley, the son of former Ohio State and NFL WR Doug Donley. The Rebels have filled a need at safety very well with ESPN 300 Tysheem Johnson, Dink Jackson and three-star Demarko Williams. Defensive line help will head west from Georgia in DT Devin Lee and DE Jibran Hawkins.
47. Stanford Cardinal
ESPN 300 commits: 2 | Previous ranking: NR
Top offensive commit: QB Ari Patu (No. 240)
Top defensive commit: DE Aaron Armitage (No. 253)
David Shaw has another talented QB on the way in ESPN 300 in-state Ari Patu. The Lone Star State continues to be good to the Cardinal with Three-star OT Jack Leyrer, three-star S Caleb Ellis and three-star CB Jimmy Wyrick. A second ESPN 300 commit in the class is Garden State DE Aaron Armitage. In-state S Mitch Leigber has the size to play from day one.
48. Indiana Hoosiers
ESPN 300 commits: 1 | Previous ranking: NR
Top offensive commit: WR Jaquez Smith (No. 143)
Top defensive commit: DE Cooper Jones (three stars)
A small but strong Hoosiers class is headlined by ESPN 300 Peach State WR Jaquez Smith and four-star WR Jordyn Williams. Key in-state victories include three-star DE Cooper Jones and OG Vinny Fiacable, QB Donaven McCulley and 6-foot-6 OT Joshua Sales. Three-star CB Larry Smith was a nice win out of Central Florida.
49. UCLA Bruins
ESPN 300 commits: 0 | Previous ranking: NR
Top offensive commit: QB Kajiya Hollawayne (four stars)
Top defensive commit: ATH Devin Kirkwood (four stars)
Chip Kelly has put together some nice in-state wins in the 2021 cycle, led by four-star ATH Devin Kirkwood and four-star QB Kajiya Hollawayne. On the offensive line, Thomas Cole, Garrett DiGiorgio and Noah Pulealii will be counted on to provide depth early. Three-star OLB Devin Aupiu has range and a nice frame. Three-star WR Isaiah Newcombe is the son of former Nebraska Cornhuskers playmaker Bobby Newcombe.
50. Syracuse Orange
ESPN 300 commits: 0 | Previous ranking: NR
Top offensive commit: OT Enrique Cruz (three stars)
Top defensive commit: CB Duce Chestnut (three stars)
As the Orange battle through a tough season on the field, they continue to try and build for a brighter future. Offense anchors the class with multiple commitments in the offensive trenches and at wide receiver. Cruz, a top-50 OT, was a key pickup and brings a high ceiling for development. Oronde Gadsden II is a big, physical WR who comes from a winning program in South Florida. Syracuse went out west to land QB Justin Lamson, who as a tough, gunslinger type. Defensively, the Orange have worked to address the front-seven with additions that include three-star defensive ends Jatius Geer and Hayden Nelson, as well as in-state DT Jaelin Moss.