Breaking News: 4-Star Safety Faheem Delane Decommits from Ohio State, Flips to Florida Gators
In a stunning recruiting twist, four-star safety Faheem Delane announced Monday that he is decommitting from Ohio State and flipping his commitment to the University of Florida. The decision sent shockwaves through the college football world, as Delane had been considered a cornerstone of the Buckeyes’ 2025 defensive class.
Ranked among the top safeties in the nation, Delane has been a highly coveted prospect since early in his high school career. Standing at 6-foot-2 and 195 pounds, he brings a rare combination of size, speed, and football IQ that made him a priority for top-tier programs nationwide. His departure marks a significant loss for Ohio State, while serving as a major recruiting victory for the Gators.
In a personal statement shared on social media, Delane cited several reasons behind his surprising decision.
“This wasn’t easy, and I have nothing but love for Coach Day and the Buckeye family,” Delane wrote. “They’ve believed in me from the start, and I’ll always appreciate that. But after deep talks with my family and mentors, I’ve decided to reopen my recruitment and officially commit to the University of Florida.”
Delane pointed to his growing relationship with the Gators’ coaching staff, especially defensive coordinator Austin Armstrong, as a key factor in the switch.
“Coach Armstrong has shown nothing but consistency, honesty, and a clear vision for how I’d be used in their defense. It feels like home,” Delane explained. “They believe in letting me be me – physical, fast, and instinctive – and that means a lot.”
Sources close to Delane also mentioned Florida’s renewed momentum under head coach Billy Napier as a big factor in his decision. The Gators have been aggressively rebuilding their defense and prioritizing elite playmakers in the secondary, making Delane’s addition a perfect fit.
This flip represents a major blow to Ohio State’s 2025 recruiting class, which had been ranked among the top in the nation. However, the Buckeyes still retain several high-profile defensive commits and are expected to remain active in pursuit of top-tier talent to fill the void.
For Florida, Delane’s commitment is yet another sign of their upward trajectory on the recruiting trail. As the Gators gear up for a new season in the SEC, landing a top safety like Delane sends a powerful message to the rest of college football: Florida is back in the fight for elite talent—and winning.
Delane is expected to enroll early and could become an instant impact player in Gainesville.