2026 NCAAF Recruiting Insights: Elite 11 Finals and Official Visits Shaping the Future

The 2026 NCAAF recruiting cycle is heating up with the Elite 11 Finals and final official visits taking center stage. Here's a comprehensive look at the key developments and what they mean for the future of college football.

Elite 11 Finals: Showcasing the Nation's Top Quarterbacks

The Elite 11 Finals, held in Manhattan Beach, California, brought together 20 of the nation's top high school quarterbacks. Notable attendees included five-star commits Dia Bell (Texas), Faizon Brandon (Tennessee), and Keisean Henderson (Houston). Uncommitted prospects like Landon Duckworth, Oscar Rios, and Bowe Bentley also made waves, showcasing their skills and narrowing down their college choices.

Final Official Visits: A Crucial Weekend

As the recruiting dead period approaches (June 23 - July 31), top prospects are making their final official visits. No. 1 overall recruit Lamar Brown is set to visit LSU, while other five-stars like Immanuel Iheanacho (Oregon) and Derrek Cooper (Ohio State) are also finalizing their decisions. These visits are crucial in determining where these elite athletes will commit.

Top Uncommitted Quarterbacks

Of the top 45 quarterback prospects, only 12 remain uncommitted. Landon Duckworth, ranked No. 104 overall, is down to Auburn and South Carolina. Oscar Rios is deciding between Arizona and UCLA, while Bowe Bentley is nearing a decision between LSU and Oklahoma. These decisions will significantly impact the recruiting landscape.

Five-Star Official Visits: Key Insights

• Lamar Brown: The top defensive tackle is down to LSU, Miami, and Texas A&M, with LSU leading the race.
• Tristen Keys: LSU is working hard to keep their top-ranked wide receiver committed, despite interest from Alabama and Texas A&M.
• Immanuel Iheanacho: The No. 12 overall prospect is closing his visits with a critical trip to Oregon, though Penn State remains a strong contender.

USC's Top-Ranked Class

USC continues to dominate the recruiting trail with the nation's deepest class. With 29 pledges, including 15 ESPN 300 prospects, the Trojans are well-positioned for future success. Key targets like Ethan Feaster and Luke Wafle could further bolster their class.

Summer Risers: Programs to Watch

Several programs are poised to rise in the recruiting rankings this summer:

• Alabama: With recent commitments and strong interest from top defenders, the Crimson Tide are set for a summer surge.
• Florida: The Gators are in contention for another top 10 class, with recent pledges and key targets still in play.
• Michigan: The Wolverines are making moves with top prospects like Savion Hiter and D.Q. Forkpa.
• Texas: The Longhorns are setting the pace with top offensive linemen and targeting elite defenders.
• Texas A&M: The Aggies are in the mix for top recruits like Lamar Brown and Brandon Arrington, aiming to build a strong class.

As the 2026 recruiting cycle progresses, these developments will shape the future of college football. Stay tuned for more updates as these elite athletes make their decisions.