National Signing Day 2025: Key Late Commitments That Could Shape College Football

National Signing Day 2025 has come and gone, and this year’s event was one of the least dramatic in recent memory. With the early signing period becoming the primary focus for recruits and the transfer portal reshaping team rosters, the traditional February rush has lost much of its excitement.

However, a handful of late commitments stood out as teams secured under-the-radar prospects who could make a significant impact. From Michigan landing a high-upside offensive tackle to North Carolina making key defensive line additions, these signings could shape the future of college football programs.

Michigan Lands Elite Offensive Tackle Ty Haywood

Ty Haywood was the last remaining player in the 247Sports Top 100 before officially committing to Michigan. The former Alabama pledge ranks No. 42 nationally in the Top247 and is a genuine tackle prospect who projects best on the right side of the line.

Haywood possesses impressive length and a multi-sport background that enhances his athleticism. In addition to football, he competes in track and has a personal best of 58 feet, 6 inches in the shot put. His physical tools and competitive nature make him a promising addition to Michigan’s offensive line.

Maryland Secures Talented Edge Rusher Dylan Mathis

Dylan Mathis announced his decision to join Maryland over Florida State during a live broadcast on the 247Sports YouTube channel. Ranked No. 166 nationally, Mathis has incredible physical traits but remains a raw talent.

Standing at 6 feet 6 inches and 235 pounds, with a wingspan nearing 6 feet 10 inches, Mathis moves with an athleticism rarely seen at his position. While he still needs development, his potential suggests he could become an early-round NFL Draft prospect if he reaches his ceiling.

Boise State Adds Explosive Running Back, Jayden Ard

Boise State has a history of producing standout running backs from Texas, and Jayden Ard hopes to be the next in line. The explosive ball carrier surged up recruiting rankings following a stellar senior season, earning an 89 rating as the No. 31 running back in the country.

Ard amassed 1,644 rushing yards and 22 touchdowns as a senior. With All-American Ashton Jeanty departing, he can earn immediate playing time in Boise State’s backfield.

USC Finds a Late Steal in Linebacker Malakai Tuitele

Malakai Tuitele emerged as a late-rising prospect who found his stride in his senior year. The former Washington State commit earned a high three-star rating (88) and finished as the No. 10 recruit in Nevada.

A versatile linebacker capable of playing both inside and outside, Tuitele also brings pass-rush potential. With linebacker depth a priority for USC, he could be a valuable addition to the Trojans’ defensive unit.

Arizona Strengthens Offensive Line with Mauling Tackle Noa Langi

Arizona made a key signing-day move by landing Noa Langi, who originally signed with Washington before requesting a release from his letter of intent. The Wildcats, the runner-up in his initial recruitment, wasted no time securing his commitment.

Langi is a physically imposing lineman with an 87 rating. While managing his weight will be crucial to his success, his aggressive style and strength make him a candidate for early playing time.

North Carolina Flips Two Defensive Linemen

The Tar Heels made waves on signing day by flipping two defensive linemen: Jaden Smith and Elijah Giddens.

• Jaden Smith: Originally committed to East Carolina, Smith received an offer from North Carolina just two days before signing. The mid-three-star prospect recorded 55 tackles, 20 for loss, and 13 sacks in his senior season. He ranks nationally as the No. 32 player in South Carolina and the No. 201 defensive lineman.
• Elijah Giddens: Previously pledged to Navy, Giddens flipped to UNC on signing day. A mid-three-star recruit (85 ratings), Giddens was an all-state selection and brings versatility to the defensive line. At 6-foot-3 and 275 pounds, he can play both three-tech and traditional defensive tackle roles in a 4-3 scheme.

With seven defensive linemen signed in this recruiting class, North Carolina has bolstered its front-line depth significantly.

Iowa Walk-On Stecker Has the Tools to Earn a Scholarship

Nick Stecker turned down scholarship offers to walk on at Iowa, betting on himself to earn playing time. The three-sport athlete (football, basketball, and track) has strong hands and excels in contested catch situations.

Stecker finished his senior season with 59 receptions, 1,123 yards, and 19 touchdowns. With an 86 rating and a ranking as the No. 13 player in Iowa, he has the skill set to contribute early and eventually earn a scholarship.

West Virginia Lands Late-Rising Offensive Lineman Jake Bowser

Jake Bowser initially considered walking on at Ohio State but instead opted to sign with West Virginia. His recruitment gained momentum late after an impressive senior season, leading to a ranking bump from an 83 to an 86 rating.

Bowser played tackle in high school but is expected to transition to guard or center at the college level. With West Virginia focusing on high school linemen after an influx of transfer portal additions, Bowser fits a critical need for the Mountaineers.

New Mexico Signs Versatile Safety Xavier McBean

Xavier McBean originally signed with Idaho but reopened his recruitment after head coach Jason Eck left for New Mexico. Although North Carolina made a late push, McBean followed Eck to the Lobos.

A two-way player in high school, McBean showcased his ball-hawking ability in the secondary. He is a hard-hitting safety with an 86 rating and ranks No. 125 in California. If he adds size and strength this offseason, he could see early playing time for New Mexico.

National Signing Day 2025

While National Signing Day lacked the usual drama, these late commitments could be pivotal in shaping college football programs. Whether Michigan strengthens its offensive line, North Carolina reinforces its defensive front, or Boise State finds its next star running back, these signings prove that even in a quieter cycle, impactful recruits are still out there.

As these players develop, their potential to become household names in college football remains high. Keep an eye on this group as they make their mark on the next level.