
In a surprising turn of events, top 2026 cornerback recruit Jordan Thomas has committed to Indiana University, choosing the Hoosiers over powerhouse programs such as Alabama, Ohio State, and Louisville. Thomas, a four-star prospect from Bergen Catholic High School in Oradell, New Jersey, is ranked as the No. 19 cornerback in the 2026 class, according to 247Sports’ composite rankings.
Thomas had been heavily courted by several top-tier programs. He visited Ohio State in November 2024, expressing admiration for their performance and coaching staff. “I had a great experience on my visit and had fun watching the game,” Thomas said after attending a Buckeyes’ victory. “The team is looking like a national championship contender.” He also highlighted his strong relationships with Ohio State’s coaching staff, including head coach Ryan Day and cornerbacks coach Tim Walton. ([elevenwarriors.com](https://www.elevenwarriors.com/ohio-state-football-recruiting/2024/11/150623/the-hurry-up-four-star-2026-cb-jordan-thomas-says-ohio-state-is-one-of-my-top-priorities-in-his?utm_source=chatgpt.com))
Despite the allure of these prominent programs, Thomas found a compelling opportunity at Indiana. The Hoosiers have been making significant strides in their recruiting efforts, aiming to compete more aggressively in the Big Ten conference. Thomas cited the program’s vision and the opportunity for immediate impact as key factors in his decision.
Standing at 6-foot-1 and weighing 185 pounds, Thomas is known for his versatility and football intelligence. He has demonstrated the ability to excel in various coverage schemes and is praised for his playmaking abilities. His commitment is a significant win for Indiana, as they secure a highly-touted defensive back who had garnered attention from some of the nation’s most prestigious football programs.
This decision underscores the evolving landscape of college football recruiting, where emerging programs are increasingly able to attract top talent. For Indiana, landing a recruit of Thomas’s caliber signals a potential shift in their competitive standing within the Big Ten and nationally.
As Thomas prepares to bring his talents to Bloomington, Indiana fans have reason to be optimistic about the future of their defense. His commitment not only bolsters the Hoosiers’ 2026 recruiting class but also serves as a testament to the program’s growing appeal to elite recruits.