The recruiting landscape for the Big Ten conference is ever-changing, and the class of 2025 is no different. With the early signing period just around the corner, several top prospects have already made their commitments. However, there are still plenty of talented players available, and the race for the top recruits is heating up. In this article, we will take a look at the current Big Ten recruiting rankings for the class of 2025 and identify some of the top targets for each school.
The Ohio State Buckeyes currently hold the top spot in the Big Ten recruiting rankings for the class of 2025. The Buckeyes have already secured commitments from several top prospects, including quarterback Lincoln Kienholz and wide receiver Jeremiah Alexander. Ohio State is also in the running for several other top recruits, including running back Richard Young and defensive end Joshua Josephs. If the Buckeyes can continue to add top talent to their roster, they will be well-positioned to compete for a national championship in the years to come.
The Michigan Wolverines are currently ranked second in the Big Ten recruiting rankings for the class of 2025. The Wolverines have already secured commitments from several top prospects, including quarterback Dante Moore and wide receiver Tyler Booker. Michigan is also in the running for several other top recruits, including running back Donovan Edwards and defensive end David Bailey. If the Wolverines can continue to add top talent to their roster, they will be well-positioned to compete for a Big Ten championship in the years to come.
Big Ten’s Elite 2025 Recruits
The Top-Rated Recruit: Dasan McCullough
Dasan McCullough, a 6’5″, 245-pound defensive lineman from Fort Wayne, Indiana, is the top-ranked recruit in the Big Ten for the 2025 class. He is a consensus five-star prospect and is considered one of the best pass rushers in the nation. McCullough has a combination of size, athleticism, and technique that makes him a major threat for opposing offenses. He is already committed to Ohio State, where he is expected to be an immediate contributor on the defensive line.
Other Elite Recruits
In addition to McCullough, there are several other highly-rated recruits in the Big Ten for the 2025 class. These include:
- Jaren Kanak, a 6’4″, 240-pound offensive tackle from Racine, Wisconsin (committed to Wisconsin)
- Domani Jackson, a 6’1″, 190-pound cornerback from Santa Ana, California (committed to USC)
- Sonny Styles, a 6’3″, 215-pound linebacker from Pickerington, Ohio (committed to Ohio State)
- CJ Hicks, a 6’4″, 285-pound defensive lineman from Indianapolis, Indiana (committed to Michigan)
- Shemar Stewart, a 5’11”, 190-pound running back from Philadelphia, Pennsylvania (committed to Penn State)
Big Ten Recruiting Rankings
The Big Ten has consistently been one of the top conferences in the country for recruiting. In recent years, the conference has landed some of the best recruits in the nation, including several five-star prospects. The 2025 class is no exception, with the Big Ten expected to land several more blue-chip recruits.
| Rank | Player | Position | School |
|—|—|—|—|
| 1 | Dasan McCullough | DL | Ohio State |
| 2 | Jaren Kanak | OL | Wisconsin |
| 3 | Domani Jackson | CB | USC |
| 4 | Sonny Styles | LB | Ohio State |
| 5 | CJ Hicks | DL | Michigan |
Star Performers in the Midwest
The Midwest region has produced some of the top football recruits in the 2025 class. Here are a few of the standouts:
| Player | Position | School |
|---|---|---|
| Cameron Calhoun | Quarterback | Cincinnati St. Xavier |
| Josh Conerly Jr. | Offensive Tackle | Seattle (WA) Garfield |
| Domani Jackson | Cornerback | Santa Ana (CA) Mater Dei |
Cameron Calhoun is a 6-foot-2, 205-pound quarterback from Cincinnati St. Xavier. He is ranked as the No. 1 quarterback in the 2025 class by 247Sports. Calhoun has a strong arm and is a good runner. He is committed to Ohio State.
Josh Conerly Jr. is a 6-foot-5, 280-pound offensive tackle from Seattle (WA) Garfield. He is ranked as the No. 1 offensive tackle in the 2025 class by 247Sports. Conerly is a powerful blocker and has good athleticism. He is committed to Oregon.
Domani Jackson is a 6-foot-1, 190-pound cornerback from Santa Ana (CA) Mater Dei. He is ranked as the No. 1 cornerback in the 2025 class by 247Sports. Jackson is a physical corner with good instincts. He is committed to USC.
Future Blue Chip Prospects
Top 100 Prospects
The 2025 class is shaping up to be one of the best in recent memory, with a number of blue-chip prospects already emerging. Here is a look at the top 100 prospects in the class, according to 247Sports:
1. Dante Moore (PG, Michigan)
2. Cade Klubnik (QB, Clemson)
3. Emery Jones (SG, Tennessee)
4. Arch Manning (QB, Texas)
5. Lebron James Jr. (SF, Bronny High School)
…
100. Donovan Green (PF, North Carolina)
Regional Rankings
In addition to the national rankings, 247Sports also releases regional rankings. Here is a look at the top 10 prospects in each region:
**East**
1. Dante Moore (PG, Michigan)
2. Emery Jones (SG, Tennessee)
3. Dariq Whitehead (SF, Duke)
…
10. Jayden Gardner (SF, Villanova)
**South**
1. Cade Klubnik (QB, Clemson)
2. Arch Manning (QB, Texas)
3. Isaiah Collier (PG, Alabama)
…
10. AJ Swann (QB, Vanderbilt)
**Midwest**
1. Jalen Washington (C, Illinois)
2. Aminu Mohammed (PF, Ohio State)
3. Trejuan Holloman (SF, Michigan State)
…
10. Zion Cruz (SF, Indiana)
**West**
1. Lebron James Jr. (SF, Bronny High School)
2. Matas Buzelis (PF, Oregon)
3. Dusty Stromer (QB, Washington)
…
10. Tegra Tshabola (C, Arizona)
Positions
Here is a look at the top prospects at each position, according to 247Sports:
| Position | Prospect |
|---|---|
| Point Guard | Dante Moore (Michigan) |
| Shooting Guard | Emery Jones (Tennessee) |
| Small Forward | Dariq Whitehead (Duke) |
| Power Forward | Aminu Mohammed (Ohio State) |
| Center | Jalen Washington (Illinois) |
| Quarterback | Cade Klubnik (Clemson) |
Athleticism and Versatility
Athleticism and versatility are key attributes for any top recruit. Big Ten schools are always looking for players who can make an immediate impact on their teams. In the 2025 recruiting class, there are a number of players who possess both athleticism and versatility.
Athleticism
Athleticism is a general term that refers to a player’s physical abilities. This includes speed, agility, strength, and power. Athletic players are able to move quickly and easily, and they have the strength and power to dominate their opponents.
Versatility
Versatility is the ability to play multiple positions or roles. This is a valuable asset for any team, as it allows coaches to be more flexible with their lineups. Versatile players can also be more difficult to defend, as they can keep opponents guessing about what they are going to do.
Top 10 Most Athletic and Versatile Big Ten Recruits in 2025
| Rank | Player | Position | School |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Dante Moore | Quarterback | Michigan |
| 2 | Jaren Kanak | Defensive end | Ohio State |
| 3 | Emeka Egbuka | Wide receiver | Ohio State |
| 4 | A&M Nick Singleton | Running back | Penn State |
| 5 | Will Johnson | Cornerback | Michigan |
| 6 | Evan Stewart | Wide receiver | Texas |
| 7 | CJ Hicks | Safety | Ohio State |
| 8 | Oscar Delp | Tight end | Georgia |
| 9 | Shemar Stewart | Linebacker | Texas |
| 10 | David Bailey | Offensive tackle | Stanford |
Academic Standouts and Leadership Qualities
The Big Ten Conference is home to some of the top academic and leadership talent in the nation. Here are some of the standout players in the 2025 recruiting class:
Academic Standouts
- Tyus Battle (SG, Minnesota): Battle is a consensus top-10 recruit and one of the most highly touted players in the country. He is also a standout student with a 4.0 GPA.
- Terance Mann (SF, Florida): Mann is a five-star recruit who excels both on and off the court. He is a member of the National Honor Society and has a 3.9 GPA.
Leadership Qualities
- Jaren Jackson Jr. (PF, Michigan State): Jackson is a four-star recruit and one of the most athletic players in the country. He is also a natural leader and has been captain of his high school team for the past two years.
- Markelle Fultz (PG, Washington): Fultz is a five-star recruit and the No. 1 point guard in the country. He is a dynamic playmaker and has a knack for making big plays. He is also a leader on and off the court, and has been involved in several community service initiatives.
- Isaiah Briscoe (PG, Kentucky): Briscoe is a four-star recruit and one of the most versatile players in the country. He can play multiple positions and has a high basketball IQ. He is also a leader on and off the court, and has been captain of his high school team for the past two years.
Community Involvement
Many of the top recruits in the Big Ten Conference are also heavily involved in their communities. Here are a few examples:
| Player | Community Involvement |
|---|---|
| Jaren Jackson Jr. | Volunteers at a local soup kitchen and mentors at-risk youth |
| Markelle Fultz | Participates in a program that provides free basketball clinics to underprivileged children |
| Isaiah Briscoe | Volunteers at a local homeless shelter and helps organize community events |
A Perennial Powerhouse in College Athletics
#6 Purdue Boilermakers
Purdue has a long and storied history in college athletics, with national championships in football, basketball, and baseball. In recent years, the Boilermakers have been a force to be reckoned with in the Big Ten, consistently finishing in the top half of the standings. The 2025 recruiting class is no exception, as Purdue has signed a number of highly touted prospects who are expected to make an immediate impact on the team.
Key Recruits
Purdue’s 2025 recruiting class is led by a number of highly sought-after prospects, including:
| Name | Position | Hometown |
|---|---|---|
| Caleb Williams | Quarterback | Lafayette, Louisiana |
| Evan Stewart | Wide receiver | Dexter, Michigan |
| Nicholaus Singleton | Running back | Shippensburg, Pennsylvania |
| Shemar Stewart | Linebacker | Lakeland, Florida |
| J.T. Tuimoloau | Defensive end | Eatonville, Washington |
These players are all considered to be among the best in the country at their respective positions, and they are expected to make an immediate impact on the Boilermakers’ program. With this talented group of recruits, Purdue is poised to make a run at the Big Ten Championship in 2025.
Building a Dynasty in the Big Ten
1. Establish a Strong Foundation
Build a solid recruiting base with a strong foundation of talented in-state prospects. Establish relationships with high school coaches and players in the Big Ten footprint.
2. Focus on Elite Talent
Prioritize recruiting the top players in the country. Target elite prospects who can make an immediate impact on the field. Build a reputation for developing top-flight talent.
3. Create a Winning Culture
Establish a winning tradition that attracts top recruits. Build a strong team atmosphere and create a culture of excellence that fosters growth and success.
4. Develop a Strong Quarterback
Recruit and develop a quarterback who can lead the offense and execute the game plan. A strong quarterback can elevate the entire team’s performance.
5. Build a Dominant Defense
Recruit and develop a defense that can stop opposing offenses and create turnovers. A dominant defense can provide the foundation for a successful team.
6. Practice and Development
Provide top-notch facilities and support staff to enhance the development of recruits. Create a practice environment that fosters skill development and competition.
7. Sell the Big Ten
Highlight the advantages of playing in the Big Ten conference. Emphasize the strong academics, national exposure, and opportunities for success that the conference offers. Below is a table outlining the top 7 schools in the Big Ten Conference based on their 2025 recruiting rankings:
| Rank | School | Score |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Ohio State | 295.39 |
| 2 | Michigan | 286.55 |
| 3 | Penn State | 265.23 |
| 4 | Wisconsin | 258.85 |
| 5 | Nebraska | 254.17 |
| 6 | Iowa | 251.77 |
| 7 | Indiana | 249.26 |
The Future of Football in the Midwest
Important Takeaways
The 2025 recruiting class is shaping up to be one of the strongest in recent memory for the Midwest. Several states in the region are producing top-tier talent, and the competition for these players is likely to be fierce.
Key States to Watch
Ohio, Michigan, Illinois, and Indiana are all expected to be major players in the 2025 recruiting rankings. These states have a long history of producing NFL talent, and they are continuing to churn out top prospects.
Ohio
Ohio is home to some of the best high school football programs in the country. The state has produced a number of NFL stars in recent years, including Joey Bosa, Nick Bosa, and Zeke Elliott. The 2025 recruiting class is expected to be another strong one for Ohio, with several players ranked among the top in the nation.
Michigan
Michigan is another state with a rich tradition of football talent. The state has produced a number of NFL stars, including Tom Brady, Devin Gardner, and Desmond Howard. The 2025 recruiting class is expected to be a solid one for Michigan, with several players ranked among the top in the state.
Illinois
Illinois is a rising star in the Midwest recruiting scene. The state has produced a number of NFL stars in recent years, including Jabrill Peppers, Leonard Floyd, and Simeon Rice. The 2025 recruiting class is expected to be a strong one for Illinois, with several players ranked among the top in the state.
Indiana
Indiana is another state that is starting to produce more top-tier football talent. The state has produced a number of NFL stars in recent years, including Anthony Walker, Darius Leonard, and Chase Claypool. The 2025 recruiting class is expected to be a solid one for Indiana, with several players ranked among the top in the state.
Top Players to Watch
| Name | Position | State |
|---|---|---|
| Domani Jackson | Cornerback | California |
| Will Johnson | Linebacker | Michigan |
| Shemar Stewart | Wide Receiver | Texas |
| A&M Cole Hutson | Offensive Tackle | Indiana |
| Kelvin Banks | Offensive Tackle | Texas |
| Jayden McGowan | Quarterback | Georgia |
| Dasan McCullough | Defensive End | Indiana |
| Barion Brown | Wide Receiver | Kentucky |
| George Pettaway | Running Back | Alabama |
| Sonny Styles | Safety | Ohio |
The Future of Football in the Midwest
The future of football in the Midwest is bright. The region is producing a number of top-tier talent, and the competition for these players is only going to get fiercer. With so much talent in the pipeline, the future of college and professional football in the Midwest looks very promising.
Big Ten’s Dominance in Recruiting
The Big Ten Conference has long been a powerhouse in college football, and its dominance is only increasing on the recruiting trail. In the 2025 recruiting cycle, the Big Ten is home to the top three recruiting classes in the country, according to 247Sports. Ohio State, Michigan, and Penn State have all signed top-five classes, and they are all expected to compete for national championships in the coming years.
9. Illinois
After years of struggling on the recruiting trail, Illinois has finally started to turn things around. The Fighting Illini have signed a top-10 class in the 2025 cycle, and they are poised to make a run at the Big Ten West title in the years to come.
One of the biggest reasons for Illinois’ recent success on the recruiting trail is the arrival of head coach Bret Bielema. Bielema has a reputation for developing talented players, and he has already started to make an impact in Champaign.
In the 2025 recruiting cycle, Illinois signed a number of talented players, including four-star quarterback Isaiah Williams. Williams is one of the most dynamic quarterbacks in the country, and he is expected to be a star for the Fighting Illini.
| Player | Position | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Isaiah Williams | QB | 4-star (93 rating) |
| Anthony Robinson | RB | 4-star (92 rating) |
| Zach Rice | OT | 4-star (91 rating) |
| CJ Hicks | CB | 4-star (90 rating) |
| Shawn Moore | DE | 4-star (90 rating) |
Offensive Line
The offensive line is the cornerstone of any successful football team, and the Big Ten is home to some of the best linemen in the country. In the 2025 recruiting class, Ohio State leads the way with a commitment from five-star tackle Josh Conerly. Michigan is close behind with four-star tackle Karsen Barnhart and four-star guard Greg Crippen. Other top offensive linemen in the Big Ten class include Penn State’s four-star tackle Alex Birchmeier and Wisconsin’s four-star guard Tyler Booker.
Quarterback
The quarterback position is the most important in football, and the Big Ten has a number of talented quarterbacks in the 2025 recruiting class. Ohio State has a commitment from five-star quarterback Lincoln Kienholz, while Michigan has a commitment from four-star quarterback Cade McNamara. Other top quarterbacks in the Big Ten class include Penn State’s four-star quarterback Drew Allar and Wisconsin’s four-star quarterback Myles Burkett.
Running Back
The running back position is another important one in football, and the Big Ten has a number of talented running backs in the 2025 recruiting class. Ohio State has a commitment from five-star running back TreVeyon Henderson, while Michigan has a commitment from four-star running back Donovan Edwards. Other top running backs in the Big Ten class include Penn State’s four-star running back Nick Singleton and Wisconsin’s four-star running back Loyal Crawford.
Wide Receiver
The wide receiver position is a key one in football, and the Big Ten has a number of talented wide receivers in the 2025 recruiting class. Ohio State has a commitment from five-star wide receiver Emeka Egbuka, while Michigan has a commitment from four-star wide receiver A.J. Henning. Other top wide receivers in the Big Ten class include Penn State’s four-star wide receiver Julian Fleming and Wisconsin’s four-star wide receiver Chris Brooks.
Tight End
The tight end position is a versatile one in football, and the Big Ten has a number of talented tight ends in the 2025 recruiting class. Ohio State has a commitment from five-star tight end Cade Stover, while Michigan has a commitment from four-star tight end Louis Hansen. Other top tight ends in the Big Ten class include Penn State’s four-star tight end Theo Johnson and Wisconsin’s four-star tight end Jack Pugh.
Defensive Line
The defensive line is a key one in football, and the Big Ten has a number of talented defensive linemen in the 2025 recruiting class. Ohio State has a commitment from five-star defensive lineman J.T. Tuimoloau, while Michigan has a commitment from four-star defensive lineman George Rooks. Other top defensive linemen in the Big Ten class include Penn State’s four-star defensive lineman Dani Dennis-Sutton and Wisconsin’s four-star defensive lineman Nick Herbig.
Linebacker
The linebacker position is a key one in football, and the Big Ten has a number of talented linebackers in the 2025 recruiting class. Ohio State has a commitment from five-star linebacker Jack Sawyer, while Michigan has a commitment from four-star linebacker David Ojabo. Other top linebackers in the Big Ten class include Penn State’s four-star linebacker Curtis Jacobs and Wisconsin’s four-star linebacker Mike Morris.
Cornerback
The cornerback position is a key one in football, and the Big Ten has a number of talented cornerbacks in the 2025 recruiting class. Ohio State has a commitment from five-star cornerback Jaheim Oatis, while Michigan has a commitment from four-star cornerback Domani Jackson. Other top cornerbacks in the Big Ten class include Penn State’s four-star cornerback Kalen King and Wisconsin’s four-star cornerback Semar Melvin.
Safety
The safety position is a key one in football, and the Big Ten has a number of talented safeties in the 2025 recruiting class. Ohio State has a commitment from five-star safety Sonny Styles, while Michigan has a commitment from four-star safety Donovan Green. Other top safeties in the Big Ten class include Penn State’s four-star safety Tyreese Fearbry and Wisconsin’s four-star safety Hunter Wohler.
Special Teams
The special teams unit is an important one in football, and the Big Ten has a number of talented special teams players in the 2025 recruiting class. Ohio State has a commitment from five-star kicker Jake Seibert, while Michigan has a commitment from four-star punter Bryce Baringer. Other top special teams players in the Big Ten class include Penn State’s four-star kicker Jake Pinegar and Wisconsin’s four-star punter Anthony Lotti.
| Player | Position | School |
|---|---|---|
| Josh Conerly | Offensive Tackle | Ohio State |
| Karsen Barnhart | Offensive Tackle | Michigan |
| Greg Crippen | Offensive Guard | Michigan |
| Alex Birchmeier | Offensive Tackle | Penn State |
| Tyler Booker | Offensive Guard | Wisconsin |
Big Ten Recruiting Rankings 2025: The Future of College Football
The Big Ten Conference is one of the most prestigious college athletic conferences in the United States. It is home to some of the most iconic college football programs in the country, including the Ohio State Buckeyes, the Michigan Wolverines, and the Penn State Nittany Lions. The Big Ten is also known for its strong academic standards, making it a popular destination for student-athletes.
The recruiting rankings for the 2025 class are now out, and the Big Ten is well-represented. Ohio State, Michigan, and Penn State are all ranked in the top 10, and several other Big Ten schools are ranked in the top 25. This is a strong sign that the Big Ten will continue to be a major force in college football for years to come.
People also ask about Big Ten recruiting rankings 2025
What are the top 5 teams in the Big Ten recruiting rankings for 2025?
According to the 247Sports Composite rankings, the top 5 teams in the Big Ten recruiting rankings for 2025 are:
1. Ohio State Buckeyes
2. Michigan Wolverines
3. Penn State Nittany Lions
4. Wisconsin Badgers
5. Nebraska Cornhuskers
Which Big Ten school has the highest-rated recruit in the 2025 class?
The highest-rated recruit in the 2025 class is Cade Klubnik, a quarterback from Austin, Texas. Klubnik is committed to Clemson, but he is considered to be the top overall prospect in the country, regardless of position.
How many players from the Big Ten are ranked in the top 100 of the 2025 recruiting class?
There are 13 players from the Big Ten who are ranked in the top 100 of the 2025 recruiting class. This is more than any other conference in the country.
