As the 2026 college football recruiting race starts to heat up, one name that keeps coming up is Carter Meadows. The 6-foot-6, 225-pound EDGE rusher out of Gonzaga College High School in Washington, D.C., is turning heads everywhere. With more than 20 Division I offers already on the table, it’s clear he’s one of the top prospects in the country.
What makes Meadows stand out? It’s that rare mix of size, athleticism, and natural pass-rushing ability. He’s got the kind of upside that college coaches dream about, and now top programs are scrambling to land him.
5-Star EDGE Carter Meadows Is One of 2026’s Most Coveted Recruits
Meadows’ rapid ascent in the recruiting rankings underscores his exceptional talent. Programs nationwide recognize his potential to be a game-changer on the defensive front.
Here’s a look at five schools making significant strides in securing his talents.
Michigan Wolverines
Michigan has positioned itself as a strong contender for Meadows. His scheduled official visit to Ann Arbor on June 20, 2025, reflects mutual interest. Meadows has praised head coach Sherrone Moore as a “great leader of men” and highlighted his positive interactions with defensive line coach Lou Esposito, stating their meeting was “great.”
The Wolverines’ track record in developing defensive talent aligns well with Meadows’ aspirations.
Ohio State Buckeyes
Ohio State is attractive because of the program’s notable defensive history. Meadows is drawn to defensive line coach Larry Johnson’s track record of developing elite pass rushers. Meadows noted Johnson’s strong emphasis on coaching and development: “Coach Johnson was up front about how he is committed to developing his players”.
Ohio State’s strong commitment to defence could provide Meadows with the opportunity to excel.
Penn State Nittany Lions
Penn State is all-in on developing high-end defensive talent, and their interest in Carter Meadows shows that. Meadows visited Happy Valley on an unofficial visit on March 25, 2025, to see the culture and coaching staff firsthand.
Penn State’s respect for developing elite defenders is well earned—just look at Micah Parsons. That history is certainly attractive to a player like Meadows.
Georgia Bulldogs
Georgia has a history of dominating in developing defenders for the NFL. While Meadows has not yet set up a visit, it is hard to overlook the Bulldogs’ current success and emphasis on defensive success. Georgia’s history of developing and showcasing elite talent matches Meadows’ desire to reach the next level.
South Carolina Gamecocks
Thanks to their personal touch, South Carolina is making waves in Carter Meadows’ recruitment. During his visit to Columbia on April 17, 2025, Meadows got a real sense of the program’s family vibe and their clear plan for his development. The Gamecocks are building something substantial on the defensive side, and their focus on player growth makes them a tempting option, especially for a guy looking to make an early impact.
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As Carter Meadows continues to evaluate his options, these programs make compelling cases to secure his commitment. His decision will undoubtedly shape the defensive fortunes of whichever team he joins.
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