5-Star QB Stuns College Football World with Shocking Decommitment from Michigan, Flips Commitment to Florida Gators Over Powerhouses Penn State, Tennessee and Georgia Bulldogs
In a stunning twist that has sent shockwaves throughout the college football world, five-star quarterback phenom Jalen Richards has decommitted from the University of Michigan and flipped his commitment to the Florida Gators. The decision comes just weeks after Richards reaffirmed his pledge to Michigan, and it instantly reshapes the quarterback recruiting landscape for the class of 2025.
Richards, ranked as the No. 2 quarterback prospect nationally by multiple recruiting services, announced the flip via a social media post late Wednesday night. “After much prayer, reflection, and conversations with my family and coaches, I’ve decided to decommit from Michigan and commit to the University of Florida,” Richards wrote. “This was not an easy decision, but I believe it’s the right one for my future.”
The announcement stunned recruiting analysts and fans alike, especially considering the caliber of schools Richards passed over to choose Florida. Powerhouse programs such as Penn State, Tennessee, and the Georgia Bulldogs were all reportedly in heavy pursuit, with some insiders believing Georgia had gained the inside track in recent days. However, Florida’s aggressive late push, led by head coach Billy Napier and offensive coordinator Ryan O’Hara, ultimately proved decisive.
Sources close to Richards’ camp cited Florida’s offensive vision, recent quarterback development, and a chance for early playing time as key factors in the decision. “Florida made him feel like a priority from day one,” a family source said. “They laid out a clear path for his development and success, and that really resonated with him.”
Michigan, which had long been considered a lock for Richards, now faces a major setback in its 2025 class. The Wolverines, under new head coach Sherrone Moore, had built their offensive future around Richards. His departure leaves a gaping hole at the most critical position and sends the staff back to the drawing board just months before early signing day.
For Florida, the flip is a massive recruiting victory and a momentum boost for Napier’s staff, who have faced criticism for not landing elite talent in recent cycles. “This is a statement win,” one SEC recruiter told 247Sports. “To flip a five-star QB from Michigan and beat out Georgia? That’s huge.”
With Jalen Richards now headed to Gainesville, all eyes turn to how the Gators will build around him — and whether this move signals a resurgence for Florida football on the national stage. One thing is certain: the 2025 recruiting battle just got a whole lot more interesting.