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As the 2025 college football recruiting cycle approaches its traditional February National g Day, several high-profile prospects remain uncommitted, keeping fans and analysts on edge. Despite the early g period in December capturing the majority of commitments, the decisions of these remaining recruits could significantly impact team rankings and future program success.
One of the most anticipated announcements comes from offensive tackle Ty Haywood. Initially committed to Alabama in July 2024, Haywood chose not to sign during the early period and decommitted in mid-January. Since then, Michigan has emerged as a frontrunner, especially after Haywood's official visit to Ann Arbor. Florida State and Texas Tech are also in contention, with Haywood's decision expected imminently.
Edge rusher Zahir Mathis presents another compelling storyline. After decommitting from Ohio State in November 2024, Mathis has been exploring his options, taking official visits to Florida State and Maryland in January. Scheduled visits to UCLA and Michigan were canceled due to unforeseen circumstances, but Virginia Tech and Ohio State remain in the mix. Mathis is set to announce his commitment on National g Day, with Maryland currently holding momentum after his recent visit.
The potential for last-minute flips adds further intrigue. Cornerback Onis Konanbanny, committed to Tennessee since August, has been heavily courted by Florida. His official visit to Gainesville in late November and a subsequent trip in January have fueled speculation about a possible switch. Notably, Konanbanny did not visit Knoxville during this period, leading many to believe a flip to the Gators is imminent.
How last-minute decisions could shake up the rankings
Team rankings could see notable shifts based on these decisions. Currently, Auburn holds the No. 6 spot, but if Michigan secures Haywood's commitment, they could leapfrog into that position. Conversely, if Haywood opts elsewhere and Konanbanny flips to Florida, the Gators might sur Michigan in the rankings. Florida State stands to make the most significant jump; landing both Haywood and Mathis could propel them from 19th to 13th in the national rankings.
Adding to the late-cycle excitement is cornerback J'Vari Flowers' recent decision to reclassify from the 2026 to the 2025 class. Now ranked as the No. 12 cornerback and No. 91 overall prospect, Flowers is considering programs such as Florida, Florida State, Georgia, and hometown favorite Miami. He aims to make his commitment by March or April, emphasizing factors like early playing time, development opportunities, and the chance to participate in both football and track.
While the early g period has reshaped the recruiting landscape, the traditional February National g Day continues to hold significant importance. The decisions of these remaining top prospects will not only finalize team rosters but also set the stage for future college football narratives.
As the clock ticks down, coaching staffs and fans alike await these pivotal commitments, understanding that the choices made in these final moments can have lasting impacts on their programs' trajectories.