Breaking News: Five-Star WR Shocks College Football World by Rejecting $6.5 Million, Decommits from LSU, Flips to Michigan Over Notre Dame and Tennessee
In a stunning development that has rocked the college football recruiting landscape, five-star wide receiver Jayden Ricks has decommitted from LSU and flipped his commitment to the University of Michigan — turning down an estimated $6.5 million in NIL offers in the process. The explosive decision comes just weeks before official signing periods and has ignited intense conversation across the sport.
Ricks, the No. 2-ranked wide receiver in the 2025 class according to multiple recruiting services, had been a verbal pledge to the LSU Tigers since last September. He was widely expected to sign with LSU after multiple visits to Baton Rouge and a strong relationship with head coach Brian Kelly and wide receivers coach Cortez Hankton. However, in a surprise announcement posted on social media Monday morning, Ricks revealed that he was reopening his recruitment and had made a final decision: Ann Arbor.
“I want to thank LSU and the entire Tiger family for believing in me,” Ricks wrote in his statement. “After prayer, reflection, and discussions with my family, I’ve decided to decommit and commit to the University of Michigan. Go Blue!”
What makes Ricks’ decision even more remarkable is that he reportedly turned down several lucrative Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) offers — including a package from a southern collective believed to be valued at approximately $6.5 million. According to insiders, both Notre Dame and Tennessee made aggressive last-minute pushes with competitive NIL deals, but the California native prioritized culture, development, and academics over money.
“I want to build something that lasts beyond football,” Ricks said during an interview with 247Sports. “Coach [Sherrone] Moore and the staff at Michigan made me feel like more than just a player. It’s about preparing for the NFL, but also for life.”
Ricks’ commitment gives Michigan their highest-rated offensive recruit in over a decade and further cements their resurgence under new head coach Sherrone Moore. After back-to-back College Football Playoff appearances and a national championship in 2023, the Wolverines continue to build a powerhouse fueled by elite talent and a culture of toughness.
Recruiting experts had long considered Notre Dame and Tennessee to be the top contenders if Ricks were to waver from LSU. His pivot to Michigan blindsided even the most connected analysts.
“This is the biggest recruiting flip of the year — maybe the decade,” said recruiting analyst Tom Luginbill. “It’s not just the talent, it’s the message. Michigan is winning without playing the NIL game the same way others are.”
The ripple effects of Ricks’ decision will be felt across the nation.
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