In 2025, the college football landscape will welcome a new crop of elite recruits. These young athletes have already shown flashes of brilliance, making them highly coveted by top programs across the country. From dynamic quarterbacks to lockdown defenders, the 2025 recruiting class is brimming with talent. As these players continue to develop, they will undoubtedly shape the future of college football. In the meantime, let’s take a closer look at some of the top prospects in the 2025 class. Their exceptional athleticism, leadership skills, and determination make them the ones to watch in the years to come.
On the offensive side of the ball, quarterback Arch Manning is the consensus number one recruit in the country. The grandson of Archie Manning and nephew of Peyton and Eli Manning, Arch has already shown that he has the pedigree to be a star. He is a pro-style quarterback with a strong arm and excellent accuracy. Manning can also scramble and make plays with his feet. He is committed to the University of Texas and is expected to be the face of the program for years to come. Other highly-touted offensive recruits include running back Rueben Owens, wide receiver Jadon Perlotte, and offensive tackle Kadyn Proctor. Owens is a physical runner with breakaway speed, while Perlotte is a dangerous deep threat with excellent hands. Proctor is a mammoth lineman who can dominate in both the run and pass game.
On the defensive side of the ball, linebacker Shemar Stewart is considered to be the top recruit in the country. He is a sideline-to-sideline playmaker with great instincts and tackling ability. Stewart is committed to the University of Georgia and is expected to be a key contributor to their defense from day one. Other highly-touted defensive recruits include defensive end Matayo Uiagalelei, defensive tackle Kelvin Banks, and cornerback Jaheim Oatis. Uiagalelei is a physical pass rusher with a relentless motor, while Banks is a disruptive force in the middle of the line. Oatis is a long and athletic cornerback with excellent cover skills. These players are all expected to make an immediate impact at the college level and could help their teams compete for championships.
The Future of Tar Heel Football: Top Recruits of 2025
No. 1: Jadon Perlotte
As the son of former NFL star wide receiver Jake Perlotte, Jadon Perlotte has football in his blood. At 6’3" and 190 pounds, the rising sophomore already possesses an impressive frame for a wide receiver. He boasts exceptional athleticism, with a 40-yard dash time of 4.4 seconds and a vertical leap of 38 inches.
Perlotte’s natural talent is evident on the field. He displays exceptional route-running ability, creating separation from defenders with ease. His strong hands and ball-tracking skills allow him to make difficult catches look routine. Perlotte is also a threat in the return game, showcasing his speed and agility.
With his combination of athleticism, technical skills, and football pedigree, Jadon Perlotte is widely regarded as the top recruit in the class of 2025. He has already received offers from several top programs, including North Carolina, Alabama, and Ohio State. The Tar Heels will be hoping to lock down a commitment from this rising star and add him to their already impressive class of 2025 recruits.
No. 2: Kelvin Banks Jr.
No. 3: Bryce Anderson
No. 4: Cole Hutson
No. 5: Joshua Josephs
| Player | Position | School |
|---|---|---|
| Jadon Perlotte | Wide Receiver | Cardinal Gibbons High School |
| Kelvin Banks Jr. | Offensive Tackle | Summer Creek High School |
| Bryce Anderson | Safety | Acworth High School |
| Cole Hutson | Quarterback | Pike Road High School |
| Joshua Josephs | Defensive End | North Gwinnett High School |
Elite Prospects: Unveiling the Nation’s Top North Carolina Football Recruits
Quarterbacks: Guiding the Gridiron
Leading the charge at quarterback is D.J. Jones of West Forsyth High School. With his impressive arm strength and quick decision-making, Jones has proven his ability to execute a dynamic passing attack. His exceptional leadership skills and poise in the pocket make him a highly sought-after prospect.
Running Backs: Pounding the Pavement
In the backfield, a trio of elite running backs stands out. Jaydn Ott of Rocky Mount High School is a shifty and versatile playmaker with quick feet and deceptive elusiveness. He possesses the ability to burst through gaps and create yardage out of broken plays. Joining Ott is Tegra Tshabola of Weddington High School, known for his powerful running style and impressive combination of speed and size. His relentless determination and ability to break tackles make him a relentless force on the field. Last but not least, Omarion Hampton of Southern Guilford High School is a dynamic and elusive speedster with lightning-fast acceleration. His ability to stretch the defense and make defenders miss in open space is truly remarkable.
Offensive Line: Anchoring the Offense
Providing the foundation for the offense are several towering linemen. Jack Kiser of Reagan High School is a massive and athletic offensive tackle with a physical presence that controls the trenches. His quick feet and explosive movement make him a formidable blocker in the running game and pass protection. Joining Kiser is Joshua Miller of Union Pines High School, another imposing offensive tackle with exceptional strength and size. His ability to maul defenders and create running lanes is a major asset to his team. Last but not least, Ethan Payne of Ledford High School is a highly skilled and versatile center with a high football IQ. His snap accuracy and ability to adjust to defensive fronts make him a reliable anchor for the offense.
| Player | Position | High School |
|---|---|---|
| D.J. Jones | Quarterback | West Forsyth |
| Jaydn Ott | Running Back | Rocky Mount |
| Tegra Tshabola | Running Back | Weddington |
| Omarion Hampton | Running Back | Southern Guilford |
| Jack Kiser | Offensive Tackle | Reagan |
| Joshua Miller | Offensive Tackle | Union Pines |
| Ethan Payne | Center | Ledford |
| Eli Sutton | Wide Receiver | Apex Friendship |
| Wesley Grimes | Wide Receiver | New Bern |
| Josh Concepcion | Tight End | Enloe |
| Jaleel Skinner | Defensive End | Freedom |
| Zaire Reed | Defensive Tackle | Mallard Creek |
| Daylin McLemore | Linebacker | SouthernDurham |
| D.J. Samuels | Safety | Scotland |
| Jaheim Oatis | Linebacker | Columbia |
Phenoms on the Rise: Rising Stars Set to Impact North Carolina’s Football Landscape
Quarterbacks
A crop of highly skilled quarterbacks is emerging in North Carolina’s 2025 class.
Running Backs
North Carolina’s 2025 class boasts promising running backs who can make dynamic plays.
Wide Receivers
The 2025 wide receiver class in North Carolina is a force to be reckoned with, featuring exceptional pass-catching abilities.
| Player | Position | Hometown |
|---|---|---|
| Caleb Brooks | Quarterback | Charlotte |
| Jaydn Dalcourt | Quarterback | Raleigh |
| Jaden Jenkins | Quarterback | Winston-Salem |
| Jaden Robinson | Running Back | Fayetteville |
| Shemar James | Running Back | Charlotte |
| Isaiah Owens | Running Back | Greenville |
| Omarion Hampton | Wide Receiver | Asheville |
| Jayden Latta | Wide Receiver | Raleigh |
| Keylen Moses | Wide Receiver | Charlotte |
Recruiting Class of 2025: A Decade in the Making
The class of 2025 is shaping up to be one of the most talented in recent memory for North Carolina football. With a number of elite prospects already committed, the Tar Heels are well on their way to assembling a group that could compete for championships in the years to come.
High-Profile Quarterbacks
One of the most notable aspects of the 2025 class is the presence of several high-profile quarterbacks. Led by five-star recruit Dante Moore, who committed to UNC in June 2022, the Tar Heels have a number of options under center for the future.
Dynamic Running Backs
The Tar Heels have also secured commitments from several dynamic running backs in the 2025 class. Four-star recruit Daylen Everette is one of the most versatile players in the country, while three-star recruit Omarion Hampton is a bruising runner with a knack for finding the end zone.
Talented Wide Receivers
The 2025 class is also loaded with talented wide receivers. Four-star recruit Josh Downs is considered one of the best pass-catchers in the country, while three-star recruit Tychaun Chapman is a speedy playmaker who can make big plays down the field.
Elite Defensive Linemen
The Tar Heels have also added some elite defensive linemen to the 2025 class. Led by five-star recruit David Bailey, UNC has a number of players who can disrupt opposing offenses and create turnovers.
| Pos. | Name | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| QB | Dante Moore | 5 stars |
| RB | Daylen Everette | 4 stars |
| WR | Josh Downs | 4 stars |
| DL | David Bailey | 5 stars |
The Tar Heel Dynasty: Future Recruits Poised to Continue the Legacy
The 2025 Class: A Deeper Dive
The 2025 recruiting class is expected to be one of the most talented in recent memory, and the Tar Heels are poised to land some of the best players in the country.
The Top 5 Recruits in the Class
Here is a closer look at each player and how they could impact the Tar Heels’ program:
1. Cade Klubnik, QB, Cedar Park (TX)
Klubnik is a 5-star quarterback who is considered the No. 1 overall prospect in the class. He is a dual-threat quarterback who can make plays with his arm and his legs.
2. Shemar Stewart, LB, Highland Springs (VA)
Stewart is a 5-star linebacker who is considered the No. 1 overall prospect at his position. He is a hard-hitting defender who can make plays all over the field.
3. Emery Jones, RB, Hempstead (TX)
Jones is a 5-star running back who is considered the No. 1 overall prospect at his position. He is a dynamic playmaker who can score from anywhere on the field.
4. Tyler Booker, DL, Harrisburg (PA)
Booker is a 5-star defensive lineman who is considered the No. 1 overall prospect at his position. He is a disruptive force who can clog up the middle of the field.
5. Jaydn Ott, RB, Diamon Bar (CA)
Ott is a 4-star running back who is considered one of the best all-around athletes in the country. He is a versatile player who can line up at running back, wide receiver, or cornerback.
| Player | Position | Stars |
|---|---|---|
| Cade Klubnik | QB | 5 |
| Shemar Stewart | LB | 5 |
| Emery Jones | RB | 5 |
| Tyler Booker | DL | 5 |
| Jaydn Ott | RB | 4 |
Powerhouse Programs: Schools Poaching the Best of North Carolina’s Talent
The state of North Carolina is a hotbed for football talent, and the state’s top recruits are in high demand by some of the nation’s top college football programs. In recent years, several powerhouse programs have made a concerted effort to recruit the best players from North Carolina, and the results have been significant. Here are a few of the most notable examples:
UNC
The Tar Heels have been one of the most successful teams in the ACC in recent years, and they have done so by recruiting some of the best players in the state. In the 2025 class, UNC has already landed commitments from several top-rated recruits, including five-star quarterback Drake Maye and four-star running back George Pettaway. These players are all expected to make an immediate impact on the Tar Heels’ offense, and they could help UNC compete for a national championship in the near future.
NC State
The Wolfpack have also been very active in recruiting the state’s top players in recent years, and they have had some success. In the 2025 class, NC State has already landed commitments from several top-rated recruits, including four-star defensive end CJ Hicks and four-star offensive tackle Jaylon Jones. These players are all expected to make an immediate impact on the Wolfpack’s defense and offense, and they could help NC State compete for an ACC title in the near future.
Duke
The Blue Devils have not been as successful in recruiting the state’s top players in recent years, but they have made some progress. In the 2025 class, Duke has already landed commitments from several top-rated recruits, including four-star wide receiver Trevyon Green and four-star cornerback Jayden McGowan. These players are all expected to make an immediate impact on the Blue Devils’ offense and defense, and they could help Duke compete for a bowl game in the near future.
Clemson
The Tigers have been one of the most dominant teams in college football in recent years, and they have done so by recruiting some of the best players in the country. In the 2025 class, Clemson has already landed commitments from several top-rated recruits, including five-star quarterback Cade Klubnik and five-star defensive end Shemar Stewart. These players are all expected to make an immediate impact on the Tigers’ offense and defense, and they could help Clemson compete for a national championship in the near future.
Notre Dame
The Fighting Irish have also been very active in recruiting the state’s top players in recent years, and they have had some success. In the 2025 class, Notre Dame has already landed commitments from several top-rated recruits, including four-star quarterback Tyler Buchner and four-star running back Logan Diggs. These players are all expected to make an immediate impact on the Fighting Irish’s offense, and they could help Notre Dame compete for a national championship in the near future.
Georgia
The Bulldogs have been one of the most dominant teams in college football in recent years, and they have done so by recruiting some of the best players in the country. In the 2025 class, Georgia has already landed commitments from several top-rated recruits, including five-star quarterback Carson Beck and five-star defensive end Jalen Carter. These players are all expected to make an immediate impact on the Bulldogs’ offense and defense, and they could help Georgia compete for a national championship in the near future.
| School | Commitments |
| UNC | 5 |
| N.C. State | 3 |
| Duke | 2 |
| Clemson | 5 |
| Notre Dame | 3 |
| Georgia | 4 |
Top NC Football Recruits 2025
Area Standouts: Homegrown Heroes Committed to North Carolina
North Carolina is home to a wealth of talented football recruits, and the 2025 class is no exception. Several local standouts have already committed to playing for the Tar Heels, and they are poised to make a significant impact on the program in the years to come.
Here is a closer look at some of the top NC football recruits in the 2025 class:
Jaleel Skinner, WR (Enka High School)
Skinner is a 6’4″, 220-pound wide receiver who is one of the most physically imposing pass-catchers in the country. He has great leaping ability, excellent hands, and a knack for making big plays. Skinner is also a talented blocker, which makes him a valuable asset to any offense.
Travis Shaw, DL (Mallard Creek High School)
Shaw is a 6’1″, 285-pound defensive lineman who is known for his strength and athleticism. He is a disruptive force on the defensive line, and he has the potential to be one of the best players in the ACC in the years to come.
Emarion Hampton, LB (Carver High School)
Hampton is a 6’1″, 210-pound linebacker who is one of the most versatile players in the 2025 class. He can play both inside and outside linebacker, and he has the speed and athleticism to make plays all over the field. Hampton is also a physical tackler who is not afraid to come up and deliver big hits.
Other Top NC Football Recruits in the 2025 Class
In addition to the players listed above, there are several other top NC football recruits in the 2025 class who have committed to North Carolina. Here is a table with a list of these players:
| Player | Position | High School |
|---|---|---|
| Jaheim Oatis | DL | Columbia High School |
| AJ Swann | QB | Dacula High School |
| Jake Pope | OL | Christ School |
| Tychaun Chapman | DB | Northside High School |
| Porter Rooks | OL | Ardrey Kell High School |
Breaking the Mold: Recruits Defying Traditional Positions
The landscape of college football recruiting is constantly evolving, and one of the most notable trends in recent years has been the emergence of recruits who defy traditional positional definitions. These athletes possess a unique combination of skills and athleticism that allows them to excel in multiple roles on the field, blurring the lines between offense, defense, and special teams.
Number 8: Tegra Tshabola
Tshabola is a 6’5″, 240-pound defensive end from Charlotte, North Carolina, who has committed to the University of North Carolina. He is a rare combination of size, strength, and athleticism, with the ability to play both defensive end and tight end. On defense, he is a relentless pass rusher with an uncanny ability to generate pressure on the quarterback. On offense, he is a gifted receiver with soft hands and a large catch radius. Tshabola’s versatility and size make him a valuable asset to any football team.
| Player | Position | School |
|---|---|---|
| Tegra Tshabola | DE/TE | Charlotte, NC |
| Quavaris Crouch | LB/RB | Charlotte, NC |
| Marvin Jones Jr. | WR/DB | Rolesville, NC |
| Jaheim Oatis | DT/G | Columbia, SC |
The Coach’s Role: Identifying and Developing Tomorrow’s Champions
The coach plays a pivotal role in identifying and developing top football recruits. Here’s how they contribute:
Identifying Raw Talent
Coaches have a keen eye for spotting potential athletes. They attend youth games, review game film, and conduct scouting evaluations to identify players with exceptional physical attributes, athleticism, and football instincts.
Mentoring and Guidance
Coaches provide guidance and support to recruits throughout their high school careers. They help players develop a strong work ethic, set realistic goals, and navigate the challenges of being a top athlete.
Technical and Tactical Development
Coaches provide technical and tactical training to help recruits refine their skills. They teach proper form, positioning, play execution, and game strategies to maximize their potential on the field.
Building Character and Leadership
Coaches emphasize character development and leadership qualities. They encourage players to be respectful, disciplined, and accountable for their actions. They create a positive and supportive environment that fosters personal growth.
Communication and Relationship Building
Coaches maintain open and regular communication with recruits and their families. They provide updates on progress, offer guidance, and build strong relationships based on trust and mutual respect.
Advocacy and Support
Coaches advocate for their recruits’ best interests. They help them navigate the recruiting process, provide references, and connect them with college coaches and programs.
Recruiting for the Future
Coaches invest time and effort in identifying and developing future recruits. They attend youth camps, clinics, and community events to connect with young athletes and build a strong pipeline of talent for their program.
Building a Winning Culture
Coaches create a winning culture within their programs. They instill a sense of pride, competition, and teamwork, which helps attract and retain top recruits.
College Readiness and Guidance
Coaches prepare recruits for the transition to college football. They provide academic support, help players develop effective study habits, and guide them in making informed decisions about their future.
10. Key In-State Targets
North Carolina has a strong crop of in-state prospects, and the Tar Heels will need to prioritize these players in the 2025 recruiting cycle. Some of the top in-state targets include:
- Cole Pryor (QB, Havelock)
- Will Hardy (DL, Mallard Creek)
- Kelby Locklear (OL, Union Pines)
- Nasir Smith (LB, Vance)
- Nick Singleton (RB, Governor Mifflin)
- Jaleel Skinner (TE, Greensboro Day)
- David Bailey (S, Grimsley)
- Keeshawn Silver (CB, Charlotte Christian)
- Walker Lyons (DE, Asheboro)
- Marquise Williams (WR, Rocky Mount)
These players all have the potential to be impact players at the ACC level, and the Tar Heels will need to put in the work to land them.
| Player | Position | Hometown |
|---|---|---|
| Cole Pryor | QB | Havelock |
| Will Hardy | DL | Mallard Creek |
| Kelby Locklear | OL | Union Pines |
| Nasir Smith | LB | Vance |
| Nick Singleton | RB | Governor Mifflin |
| Jaleel Skinner | TE | Greensboro Day |
| David Bailey | S | Grimsley |
| Keeshawn Silver | CB | Charlotte Christian |
| Walker Lyons | DE | Asheboro |
| Marquise Williams | WR | Rocky Mount |
Top NC Football Recruits 2025: A Preview
The 2025 recruiting class in North Carolina is shaping up to be one of the strongest in recent memory. Several players have already committed to major college football programs, and many more are expected to follow suit in the coming months.
One of the top recruits in the state is quarterback Jadon Perlotte of Dudley High School. Perlotte is a 6-foot-3, 220-pound pro-style quarterback with a strong arm and good accuracy. He has committed to the University of North Carolina.
Another top recruit is running back Justice Ellison of Scotland County High School. Ellison is a 5-foot-11, 190-pound running back with great speed and agility. He has committed to the University of Georgia.
On the defensive side of the ball, linebacker Jeremiah Alexander of Charlotte Christian High School is one of the top prospects in the country. Alexander is a 6-foot-3, 220-pound linebacker with great instincts and athleticism. He has committed to the University of Alabama.
These are just a few of the top NC football recruits in the 2025 class. With many more talented players still available, it is sure to be an exciting recruiting season in the Tar Heel State.
People Also Ask About Top NC Football Recruits 2025
When is the National Signing Day for the 2025 recruiting class?
The National Signing Day for the 2025 recruiting class is Wednesday, February 5, 2025.
Who are the top uncommitted recruits in the 2025 class?
Some of the top uncommitted recruits in the 2025 class include quarterback Dante Moore of Martin Luther King Jr. High School in Detroit, Michigan, and wide receiver Evan Stewart of Frisco, Texas.
Which college football programs are expected to sign the most recruits in the 2025 class?
The college football programs expected to sign the most recruits in the 2025 class include the University of Alabama, the University of Georgia, and the Ohio State University.
