Jackson Cantwell, the top-ranked offensive tackle in the 2026 recruiting class, has narrowed his college choices to six programs: Georgia, Michigan, Miami, Missouri, Ohio State, and Oregon. Standing at 6-foot-7 and weighing 305 pounds, Cantwell has become a highly sought-after prospect, with each school vying for his commitment.
Oregon’s head coach, Dan Lanning, has made a significant impression on Cantwell. Cantwell has expressed admiration for Lanning, noting their shared Missouri roots and describing him as a “great guy” and his “favorite head coach.” This connection has positioned Oregon as a strong contender in Cantwell’s recruitment.
Michigan is also making a concerted effort to secure Cantwell’s commitment. Offensive line coach Grant Newsome and head coach Sherrone Moore have emphasized the program’s dedication to developing top-tier offensive linemen. Cantwell visited Ann Arbor in December and was particularly impressed by the in-depth discussions about player development and the team’s offensive schemes. He remarked, “I’d say their player development program and how in-depth their scheme talk with me surprised me.”
Missouri, Cantwell’s home-state school, remains a formidable competitor. The Tigers have prioritized retaining in-state talent, and Cantwell has noted the significant emphasis Missouri places on local recruits.Given his family’s ties to the university—his father is enshrined in the Missouri Hall of Fame—the Tigers present a compelling case for Cantwell to stay close to home.
Georgia and Ohio State are also in the mix, with both programs boasting strong traditions of developing NFL-caliber offensive linemen. Cantwell has acknowledged the attention to detail in Georgia’s program and has had positive interactions with their coaching staff. Regarding Ohio State, he appreciated learning more about the program during his visit and enjoyed his time touring the facilities.
Miami, though considered a less likely destination, has made strides in impressing Cantwell. He has noted head coach Mario Cristobal’s commitment to developing a strong offensive line and the staff’s dedication to player development.
As Cantwell approaches his senior year, the competition among these programs is intensifying. Each school is leveraging its unique strengths to appeal to him, making his final decision highly anticipated in the college football recruiting landscape.
