Carter Meadows is expected to decide on his future soon. The 6-foot-6 edge rusher is widely recognized as one of the best talents nationwide and reportedly has over 20 Division I offers. The 2026 five-star edge is one of the top prospects, with the potential to be a game-changer on the defensive front for any team.
Meadows’ Draws Shortlist of Potential Colleges
Meadows has released a list of his preferred schools as he prepares to find his college football home. According to reports, the 225-pound edge rusher will decide between four or five schools. Meadows, a 2026 five-star edge rusher out of Gonzaga College High School in Washington, D.C., has attracted interest from some of the best programs in the country.
🚨NEWS🚨 On3 5-star EDGE Carter Meadows is down to Ohio State, Michigan, Penn State and South Carolina, @Hayesfawcett3 reports👀
More from @SWiltfong_: https://t.co/DoUu0aYYaq pic.twitter.com/aLf1JGcrw3
— On3 Recruits (@On3Recruits) May 9, 2025
Following his rapid rise with Gonzaga, the edge rusher has become highly sought after. Meadows has the height teams covet at the position and the potential to take his game to the next level. He is ranked the 3rd player overall in the 2026 class, and his athleticism is already at a college level.
Although Meadows hasn’t decided where he will play college football yet, he is expected to decide on his future soon. So, where is the edge likely to end up? Below are the top 5 landing spots for Meadows.
South Carolina
The South Carolina Gamecocks are one of the teams reportedly on Meadows’ shortlist. He visited Columbia on April 17 to familiarize himself with the program. South Carolina has also highlighted its plan for his development, and they are focused on building the team around him on the defensive side.
Ohio State
The Buckeyes are known for their defensive history, and the program has understandably caught Meadows’ attention. He is also drawn to defensive line coach Larry Johnson’s strong record of developing elite pass rushers, which could play into his decision.
Michigan
The Michigan Wolverines are another program Meadows is reportedly considering. He is scheduled to visit Ann Arbor for an official visit next month. The edge rusher praised Michigan’s head coach, Sherrone Moore, and has had positive discussions with Lou Esposito, the team’s defensive line coach.
Penn State
The Penn State Nittany Lions have expressed their interest in Meadows, and the program is also reportedly on his shortlist. He made an unofficial visit to Happy Valley last month and met with some of the coaching staff. Their history of developing elite defenders should be a key consideration for Meadows.
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Georgia
Although the Georgia Bulldogs aren’t currently on Meadows’ shortlist, the team’s recent success and emphasis on developing defenders make them too strong to overlook. Since Meadows has yet to make his final decision, it wouldn’t be surprising if he pivots to Georgia.
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