The 2026 college football recruiting class is one to watch. While many of the top players have committed already, there are still a few elite talents waiting for the right fit. These elite uncommitted players aren’t just any recruits—they’re game-changers who can make a big splash on the college football scene.
5 Best Uncommitted Recruits in the Class of 2026
OT Jackson Cantwell (Nixa, MO)
When discussing the best offensive tackle prospects from the class of 2026, it’s hard not to mention Jackson Cantwell. The big-bodied tackle stands 6’7″ and tips the scales at 320 pounds. He has enough physical presence to dominate any defensive player who might feel brave enough to match up against him.
The Nixa High School superstar out of Nixa, Missouri, dominated the high school game to such a degree that he was noted as one of the best interior linemen in the country. His raw power, quick steps, and technique all combine in a rare blend of talent. Cantwell should be able to play immediately as a starter on the college level.
Cantwell has been a presence in the passing and running game, consistently opening up huge holes for ball carriers and keeping quarterbacks safe in the pocket. His skill at pushing defenders off the line with relative ease has made him an integral part of one of the state’s most powerful high school offensive lines.
The recruiting community is abuzz as Cantwell has been offered by some of the largest programs in college football, including Alabama, Georgia, and Ohio State.
Alabama is the favorite, according to 247Sports’ crystal ball, but Georgia and Ohio State are still very much in the hunt for this top prospect. It was announced recently that Cantwell will announce his decision on April 30.
QB Jared Curtis (Nashville, TN)
Jared Curtis is the type of quarterback who can totally alter the course of a football program. At 6’3″ and 210 pounds, Curtis is the perfect size to be a pocket passer but also possesses the athleticism to make plays with his legs when the pocket collapses.
Curtis, who plays for Nashville Christian School, has gained over 3,500 yards and 40 touchdowns in his high school career. His dual-threat capability makes him one of the most feared quarterbacks in the 2025 class because he can hurt defenses with both his arm and his legs.
What stands out about Curtis is his football IQ and poise under pressure. Whether he’s scrambling to extend the play or sitting in the pocket to deliver a deep ball, Curtis shows a calmness that is rare for a player of his age.
He’s also demonstrated that he is capable of helping his team emerge victorious in a high-pressure scenario, which is why so many of the powerhouse programs are more than willing to have him sign with them.
Curtis has had several of the best schools paired with him, and the most recent crystal ball estimates from 247Sports indicate Georgia is the favored school at this point. But don’t count him out—Curtis remains very much in the mix for other bluebloods.
OT Immanuel Iheanacho (Baltimore, MD)
As far as offensive tackles go, Immanuel Iheanacho is as big as they get. At 6’5″, 310 pounds, Iheanacho is big enough and strong enough to take over in college.
While playing for Georgetown Preparatory School of Maryland, where top-notch football players are cultivated, Iheanacho is a regular member of one of the best offensive lines in the state. His mix of strength, agility, and technical ability ranks him among the most highly valued offensive line recruits in the class of 2026.
Iheanacho can both protect the quarterback and create running holes, so he is an all-around asset to any program’s offensive line. He’s improved dramatically over the years, and his footwork is now one of the most polished in his class. With his size and speed combination, he could start as a true freshman.
Oregon, LSU, and Penn State have all expressed serious interest in Iheanacho, and 247Sports’ crystal ball has Maryland as the favorite. Still, nobody knows for certain where he’ll end up, and this recruitment is far from done.
OT Felix Ojo (Mansfield, TX)
Felix Ojo may not be as nationally recognized as some of the other best offensive linemen from the 2026 class, but don’t be fooled—he’s a future star. Standing 6’6″ and weighing 310 pounds, Ojo possesses the size and athleticism to take over at the next level.
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At Lake Ridge High School in Texas, Ojo has flown under the radar and emerged as one of the best offensive tackle prospects in the nation. His power to drive defenders off the ball, along with his excellent pass protection, makes him a well-rounded lineman who can play in both the running and passing game.
Ojo’s skill is beginning to see more buzz, and a good number of the nation’s leading programs are currently after his services. Oklahoma, Texas, and Michigan have all been rumored for the services of the gifted tackle.
His growth over the last year has been incredible, and whatever program signs him will be acquiring a player who has the potential to contribute right away. Ojo is a sleeper prospect who has the potential to develop into an elite offensive lineman at the next level.
LB Tyler Atkinson (Loganville, GA)
Tyler Atkinson is perhaps the most talented all-around linebacker in the 2026 class and can be a game-changer on defense. Measuring 6’2″ and weighing 220 pounds, Atkinson possesses the body to play inside linebacker but the quickness and elusiveness to thrive on the outside.
Atkinson has been a standout on the defense at Grayson High School in Georgia. He recorded more than 100 tackles in his junior year alone, as well as sacks, forced fumbles, and interceptions. His capacity to quickly diagnose plays and make plays anywhere on the field makes him a prized recruit.
Atkinson stands out by combining speed, strength, and smarts. He can quickly cover ground, disrupt the pass game, and rush the quarterback while keeping tabs on what is occurring on the field. He is a special playmaker who is being coveted by top schools such as Alabama, Georgia, and Auburn.
The 247Sports crystal ball favors Georgia, but Atkinson has left his recruitment somewhat open. Whatever program signs him, it will gain a linebacker who can make an instant impact on its defense and become a star at the next level.
As we move into the latter stages of the 2026 recruiting class, these players will certainly keep making waves. Meanwhile, their choices will have lasting effects on the world of college football.
The 2026 recruiting cycle is hardly underway, and these best uncommitted recruits have plenty of time to decide. The anticipation is palpable, and college football enthusiasts can’t help but wait and see where these game-changing recruits wind up.
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