No. 1 overall recruit Jackson Cantwell’s recruiting is starting to clear up, he tells @SWiltfong_

Recruiting Update: No. 1 Overall Prospect Jackson Cantwell Narrows His Focus

April 10, 2025 — By Sports Desk

The recruitment of Jackson Cantwell, the No. 1 overall prospect in the 2025 class, is beginning to take shape. The five-star offensive tackle out of Nixa High School (MO) shared with 247Sports Director of Recruiting Steve Wiltfong (@SWiltfong_) that his process is “starting to clear up,” signaling that a decision may be approaching for one of the most sought-after recruits in the country.

At 6-foot-8, 315 pounds, Cantwell is a generational talent on the offensive line — a rare blend of elite size, athleticism, and technical polish. A two-sport star who also throws shot put and discus at a national level, Cantwell has long been at the top of recruiting boards across the country, with nearly every powerhouse program vying for his commitment.

According to Wiltfong, Cantwell has been “methodical and mature” in his approach, making multiple unofficial visits and building strong relationships with coaching staffs. Though Cantwell hasn’t publicly released a final list, sources close to the recruitment say Georgia, Missouri, Tennessee, and Alabama are the top contenders at this stage.

In his interview with Wiltfong, Cantwell said:

“I’m starting to get a better feel for where I fit best, both on and off the field. The relationships are what it’s coming down to. I want to be somewhere I can develop, compete, and feel like home.”

The in-state pull from Missouri has been strong throughout his recruitment. His father, Jeremy Cantwell, was a standout track and field athlete at Mizzou, and the Tigers have made the five-star lineman a top priority since his freshman year. Head coach Eli Drinkwitz and offensive line coach Brandon Jones have built a strong rapport with the Cantwell family, and there’s growing optimism in Columbia that they could keep the nation’s top player close to home.

However, Georgia continues to be viewed as a major player, with its offensive line tradition and national championship pedigree offering a powerful pitch. Cantwell has visited Athens multiple times, and sources indicate he’s “very intrigued” by what Kirby Smart and his staff are building for the future.

Tennessee and Alabama are also heavily involved, each selling early playing time, elite development, and SEC competition. Alabama offensive line coach Eric Wolford has made Cantwell a personal priority, while Tennessee’s staff has emphasized their rapid offensive growth and NIL potential.

Cantwell has not provided a firm commitment timeline but hinted that a summer decision is likely.

“I don’t want to drag it out forever,” he told Wiltfong. “Once I know, I’ll know. I just want to finish my visits and trust my gut.”

Whoever lands Jackson Cantwell is getting a cornerstone player capable of anchoring a college offensive line from Day 1 — and potentially hearing his name called early in an NFL Draft down the line.

The nation’s top prospect is zeroing in. Buckle up.