Georgia Dealt Concerning News This Week on Highly Touted Star

The Georgia Bulldogs have long been seen as the favorites to land the consensus top prospect in the 2026 recruiting class. But that may no longer be the case.

On3’s Steve Wiltfong reported Monday five-star offensive tackle Jackson Cantwell had an “excellent experience” during his weekend visit to the Oregon Ducks. In fact, the visit went so well that Georgia may no longer be the favorite to sign the offensive tackle.

“Coming into the trip, several sources with knowledge of the recruitment including around Eugene, thought the momentum was with Georgia. The Bulldogs have been one of Cantwell’s favorites for a couple years, they just needed to become competitive regarding opportunities off the field. They have done that. They could still land him,” wrote Wiltfong.

“But this trip to Oregon was Cantwell’s best of the process. The development at the point of attack and where they’re at as a program on the field certainly excites. Testimonials from former players, the branding and NIL opportunities, competing in track and field, at the very least has put Oregon right there with Georgia.

Wiltfong added that “one source believes” the visit has “swayed” Cantwell in his decision process. However, the offensive tackle is going to make another unofficial visit to Georgia on May 10.

Cantwell is the No. 1 overall prospect, top offensive lineman and No. 1 Missouri recruit in the 2026 class according to the 247 Sports composite rankings.

In addition to Georgia and Oregon, Cantwell is still considering the Ohio State Buckeyes and Miami Hurricanes.

Cantwell is expected to make his final recruiting decision right after that visit on May 13.

“Perhaps it even put the Ducks ahead for the time-being.”

The Georgia Bulldogs have long been seen as the favorites to land the consensus top prospect in the 2026 recruiting class. But that may no longer be the case.