Top-Ranked OT Jackson Cantwell Commits to Georgia Bulldogs Over Miami, Oregon, and Ohio State
In a major win for Kirby Smart and the Georgia Bulldogs, Jackson Cantwell—the No. 1 overall recruit in the 2026 class—has announced his commitment to Georgia. The five-star offensive tackle from Nixa High School in Missouri chose the Bulldogs over Miami, Oregon, and Ohio State, ending one of the most closely watched recruiting battles of the year.
Standing at an imposing 6-foot-8 and weighing 315 pounds, Cantwell has been labeled a generational talent on the offensive line. His rare combination of size, agility, and power makes him a nightmare for defensive linemen and a cornerstone prospect for any program. National recruiting analysts agree: Cantwell is not just the top offensive tackle in his class, but one of the most complete high school linemen in recent memory.
“Georgia feels like the best fit for me in terms of development, coaching, and competition,” Cantwell said during his announcement. “I trust Coach Kirby Smart and Coach Stacy Searels to help me get to the next level. It just feels like home.
Cantwell’s recruitment has been anything but quiet. Miami made a strong push with their up-tempo offense and investment in player development. Oregon, under head coach Dan Lanning, pitched a compelling case with its explosive scheme and West Coast appeal. Meanwhile, Ohio State’s tradition and success in producing NFL-caliber offensive linemen kept them in serious contention until the end.
But it was Georgia’s consistent dominance in the trenches, particularly under Smart’s leadership, that won Cantwell over. The Bulldogs have built a reputation for turning elite linemen into NFL-ready players, and Cantwell wants to be the next in line.
Coach Searels played a particularly important role in this commitment. Known for his detailed coaching style and ability to connect with young players, Searels laid out a clear development plan tailored for Cantwell. Sources close to the family mentioned that Cantwell was impressed not only with Searels’ coaching but also with how Georgia emphasized physicality, preparation, and character.
Cantwell isn’t just a football star—he’s an accomplished track and field athlete. He holds the national sophomore record in the shot put with a throw of 74 feet, 9.75 inches, and his Olympic-athlete parents have instilled a deep commitment to discipline and work ethic. That multi-sport background has only enhanced his footwork and leverage—key tools in dominating defensive linemen.
With Cantwell now in the fold, Georgia’s 2026 recruiting class takes another step toward the top spot nationally. The Bulldogs already boast commitments from several top-100 prospects, and Cantwell’s decision could create momentum as the summer camp and visit season approaches.
“I want to be part of something great,” Cantwell added. “Georgia has proven they can compete for championships, and I want to help them stay on top.”
Though National Signing Day is still several months away, Cantwell made it clear he’s shutting down his recruitment. He has no plans to take additional visits or reconsider his commitment.
This is it. I’m 100% locked in,” he said. “I’m ready to be a Dawg.
For Georgia fans, Cantwell’s commitment sends a powerful message: the Bulldogs continue to attract—and secure—the nation’s best talent. And with an offensive line prospect like Jackson Cantwell now on board, the future in Athens looks as dominant as ever.
