DONE DEAL: Nation’s No. 1 Overall Five-Star Recruit Jackson Cantwell Commits to Georgia Under Kirby Smart’s Leadership
In a move that sends shockwaves through the college football recruiting world, the No. 1 overall prospect in the 2025 class, Jackson Cantwell, has officially committed to the University of Georgia. The announcement was first reported by On3’s Steve Wiltfong—earning it the nickname “FONG BOMB” among recruiting fans—and it marks one of the biggest recruiting wins of the Kirby Smart era.
Cantwell, a 6-foot-8, 300-pound offensive tackle out of Missouri, has been the top target for nearly every blue-blood program across the country. Known for his elite size, technical polish, and rare athleticism for a lineman his size, Cantwell has long been viewed as a cornerstone piece for any program lucky enough to land him.
Ultimately, it was Kirby Smart and the Georgia Bulldogs who secured the commitment, edging out powerhouses like Alabama, Ohio State, and Texas. According to sources close to the situation, Georgia’s consistent development of NFL-caliber offensive linemen—and the championship culture instilled by Smart—played a major role in Cantwell’s decision.
“Coach Smart has built something special in Athens,” Cantwell said in a statement. “It’s a program that not only competes at the highest level but develops players into pros. That’s where I want to be.”
Cantwell’s commitment further solidifies Georgia’s position as a recruiting juggernaut and adds major firepower to an already elite 2025 class. With multiple five-star pledges and a wave of blue-chip talent joining the fold, the Bulldogs are again making their case as the top recruiting force in college football.
For Kirby Smart, this is more than just another high-profile commitment—it’s a statement. Landing the No. 1 overall recruit not only reinforces Georgia’s dominance on the trail but also ensures that the Bulldogs remain a force in the trenches for years to come.
With Cantwell on board, Georgia’s 2025 class vaults even higher in national rankings, and fans in Athens can start dreaming about the next generation of Bulldogs protecting the legacy—and the quarterback.
