A coaching change always brings uncertainty to a college football program, especially when it comes to recruiting. However, according to national recruiting analysts, Texas A&M and Mississippi State are both expected to keep their top-rated recruits despite recent coaching turnovers.
Cole Patterson, Rivals national recruiting analyst, along with national recruiting director Adam Gorney, Jack Byers of BulldogBlitz.com, and Mark Passwaters of AggieYell.com, have weighed in on these topics in the Mid-South region.
1. Texas A&M’s Top-10 Recruiting Class Despite Coaching Change
According to Patterson, Texas A&M is expected to finish with a top-10 recruiting class despite the recent departure of head coach Jimbo Fisher. Patterson credits assistant coach Elijah Robinson for maintaining strong relationships with several commits, in particular Terry Bussey and Dominick McKinley. However, Patterson also notes that some prospects, including Cam Coleman and Tristan Jernigan, may be considering other options, which could impact the class. Passwaters agrees with Patterson’s assessment, adding that the future coaching hire will play a critical role in maintaining the program’s recruiting success. Both analysts expect Texas A&M to remain in the top 10, potentially even pushing higher depending on the coach’s hiring.
2. Four-Star WR JJ Harrell’s Commitment to Mississippi State
Patterson believes that four-star wide receiver JJ Harrell will stay committed to Mississippi State despite the recent departure of former defensive coordinator Zach Arnett. Harrell has expressed a strong bond with wide receivers coach Chad Bumphis, stating that as long as Bumphis remains with the program, he has no intention of changing his commitment. Byers also predicts Harrell to sign with Mississippi State, citing the same reasons – Harrell’s strong connection with Bumphis, who is expected to stay on as a member of the next coaching staff.
3. Florida Commit DJ Lagway’s Rise to Five-Star Status
Patterson and Gorney are observant about the rise of Florida commit DJ Lagway. Lagway has had an outstanding senior season, leading Willis High School to an undefeated regular season and a district championship. Patterson believes Lagway deserves consideration for five-star status due to his performance under pressure and his ability to elevate his game on big stages. Gorney agrees that Lagway’s senior season has been phenomenal, but he also notes that the decision to award five-star status also considers a player’s projection as a future NFL prospect. However, both analysts agree that Lagway is definitely a player to watch as the next Rivals rankings are updated.
As the college football coaching carousel continues to turn, the impact on recruiting is always a topic of interest for fans and analysts alike. In the Mid-South region, programs like Texas A&M and Mississippi State are navigating coaching changes while aiming to secure their future stars on the field. The next steps for these programs will be critical, as their success in recruiting will undoubtedly impact their competitiveness on the gridiron in the years to come.
