Welcome to the U, Jackson Cantwell!

Miami shocked the college football recruiting world on Tuesday when the five-star and #1 prospect Jackson Cantwell (Nixa, MO - Nixa) committed to the Canes.

Jackson chose Miami over Georgia and Oregon, among his 31 scholarship offers.

At 6’-7.5”/325, Jackson is rated 99, ranked the #1 OT and #1 overall prospect in the 2026 recruiting class, according to the 247Sports Composite.

In 2024, Jackson was Missouri Gatorade Player of the Year and a finalist for the Gatorade National Player of the Year. Registered 158 pancake blocks over the course of the season. In his sophomore season (2023), Jackson was credited with 91 pancake blocks and no sacks allowed.

Jackson is also accomplished in track and field. He’s a two-time Missouri Class 5A state champion in the shot put. Also took first in the event at Nike Outdoor Nationals 2024. Owns a personal-best 74-9.75 effort in the shot put (national high school record for a sophomore) and a 205’-4’ effort in the discus. Both of his parents are former Olympic athletes.

Here’s what Gabe Brooks, 247Sports scouting analyst had to say about Jackson Cantrell.

Tall, big-framed offensive tackle prospect with a stellar athletic profile and pedigree who's an advanced mover at this stage of development. Quick off the ball and flashes hand violence and POA power. Bounce in his step and plays with active feet. Capable bender who gets hips involved. Further ahead as a run blocker than in pass protection, but displays encouraging footwork in the latter with immense potential in that category. More catcher than puncher in pass pro, but strength is there and power capacity is possibly limitless. Missouri state champion in shot put and discus, Nike Outdoor Nationals competitor. Rare multi-sport profile and genetic background (son of two former Olympics throws athletes). Can get more consistent use of length/extension. May ultimately possess a higher ceiling on the right side. Projects as a high-major multi-year starter with outstanding physical tools and athletic/genetic profile that suggests long-term early-round NFL Draft potential.

Jackson is the tenth verbal commitment to Miami’s class, now ranked #9 in the nation and #2 in the ACC, with an average commitment of 91.76. Jackson is also the first 5-star commitment in the ACC.

Welcome to the U, Jackson! Welcome to the family!

GO CANES!