Best 5-star OT Jackson Cantwell Decommits From Previous School, Commits To Missouri Tigers Over Miami, Oregon, & Ohio State.

Best 5-Star OT Jackson Cantwell Decommits From Previous School, Commits To Missouri Tigers Over Miami, Oregon, & Ohio State

In a stunning development that has sent shockwaves through the college football recruiting world, five-star offensive tackle Jackson Cantwell has decommitted from his previous school and committed to the University of Missouri. The 6’6″, 320-pound prospect, widely regarded as one of the top offensive linemen in the 2025 class, made his decision official on social media, choosing the Tigers over several of college football’s elite programs, including Miami, Oregon, and Ohio State. This move is a massive coup for Mizzou, signaling the program’s growing presence on the national recruiting stage.

Cantwell’s recruitment has been one of the most closely watched storylines of the 2025 recruiting cycle. The Louisville, Kentucky native had initially committed to another powerhouse program earlier in the process. However, as his senior season progressed, the heavyweights of college football made their moves to sway him, leading to his decommitment and eventual decision to choose Missouri. The Tigers, who have been steadily building a competitive program under head coach Eli Drinkwitz, were not considered the front-runners at first. But their relentless recruiting efforts, combined with an ideal opportunity for early playing time, ultimately led Cantwell to choose Mizzou over Miami, Oregon, and Ohio State.

The Recruitment Process

Jackson Cantwell’s rise to prominence has been nothing short of remarkable. As a high school senior, he has dominated at the offensive tackle position, showcasing his elite combination of size, athleticism, and strength. He is widely regarded as one of the top offensive line prospects in the country, with his ability to both protect the quarterback and open up running lanes making him a highly coveted recruit.

When Cantwell initially committed to another school, many believed that his recruitment was essentially over. However, top programs from across the country refused to let up on the talented lineman. Miami, under the leadership of head coach Mario Cristobal, has been building a recruiting juggernaut, and they quickly emerged as a serious contender for Cantwell’s services. The Hurricanes’ physical style of play and their emphasis on offensive line development were key selling points.

Oregon, known for its innovative offensive schemes and cutting-edge facilities, was another program that caught Cantwell’s attention. The Ducks have been building a top-tier recruiting class, and Cantwell saw the chance to compete at the highest level in a fast-paced, high-flying offense.

Perhaps most notably, Ohio State — a program with a history of producing NFL-caliber offensive linemen — was a top contender. Known for its tradition of success and NFL connections, Ohio State has long been a destination for elite offensive linemen, and Cantwell had considered joining their storied program.

Despite the attention from these powerhouse schools, Cantwell ultimately chose Missouri, a decision that surprised many in the recruiting world. His reasons, however, were clear. Mizzou’s coaching staff, led by Eli Drinkwitz, worked tirelessly to build a relationship with Cantwell, offering him the chance to contribute immediately and be part of a program on the rise.

Why Missouri?

Missouri’s appeal to Cantwell was multifaceted. Under Drinkwitz, Mizzou has shown steady improvement and is becoming a more prominent force in the SEC. While the Tigers have not been known as a national powerhouse in recent years, the coaching staff has put together an impressive development plan for their recruits, particularly on the offensive line. Cantwell saw the opportunity to come in and make an immediate impact, especially with the Tigers’ offensive line needing to replenish and bolster its depth in the coming years.

Another major factor in Cantwell’s decision was Missouri’s growing infrastructure. While not as flashy as some other schools, the Tigers have invested heavily in their facilities and resources, which helped sway Cantwell. The combination of excellent coaching, solid player development, and a supportive atmosphere convinced the five-star lineman that Mizzou was the right place to reach his full potential.

Additionally, Cantwell valued the personal relationships he developed with the Missouri coaching staff, particularly offensive line coach Marcus Johnson. Johnson, a seasoned coach with a track record of developing top-tier talent, was instrumental in Cantwell’s decision. The Tigers’ approach to player development, both on and off the field, resonated deeply with Cantwell, who wanted to be in a program that prioritized not only football but also academic success and long-term growth.

What This Means for Missouri

Cantwell’s commitment to Missouri is a massive victory for the Tigers’ recruiting efforts. With his immense talent, Cantwell immediately becomes the centerpiece of Missouri’s 2025 class and a foundational piece of their offensive line for years to come. The Tigers have struggled in recent years to consistently compete with the elite programs in the SEC, but adding a talent like Cantwell significantly raises their ceiling.

In the short term, Cantwell’s commitment gives Mizzou a major boost on the recruiting trail. The Tigers are now a more attractive destination for other elite prospects, particularly along the offensive and defensive lines. His decision to commit to Missouri sends a message that the Tigers are capable of landing top-tier talent and are ready to compete with the biggest programs in the country.

In the long term, Cantwell could be a key piece of Missouri’s offensive line for several years. His combination of size, strength, and technique make him an ideal fit for the Tigers’ system, and he is expected to contribute immediately, potentially starting as a true freshman. His presence will help solidify Missouri’s offensive line as a formidable force in the SEC.

The Bigger Picture

Cantwell’s decision also reflects the broader shift in college football recruiting. While programs like Alabama, Georgia, and Ohio State have traditionally dominated the national recruiting rankings, Missouri’s rise signals that more schools are emerging as serious contenders for top talent. The SEC, already home to several elite programs, will only become more competitive with the addition of recruits like Cantwell.

For Cantwell, his commitment to Missouri represents an opportunity to carve out his own legacy. While it might have been tempting to join an established power like Ohio State or Oregon, Cantwell has chosen to take the road less traveled and help build something special in Columbia, Missouri.

In conclusion, Jackson Cantwell’s decision to decommit from his previous school and commit to Missouri is a game-changing moment in the 2025 recruiting cycle. His talent, leadership, and potential will play a key role in the Tigers’ future success, and his commitment is a huge boost for the Mizzou football program. As Missouri continues to build momentum, Cantwell will be a centerpiece of their efforts to compete at the highest level of college football.