KNOXVILLE, Tenn. — July 2, 2025 — In a jaw-dropping twist that has sent shockwaves through the college football recruiting world, 5-star wide receiver Jayden Ricks, the No. 2 wideout in the 2025 class and a top-10 overall prospect nationally, has decommitted from Ohio State and announced a stunning commitment to the University of Tennessee, choosing the Volunteers over powerhouse programs including Alabama.
The announcement came via a dramatic live stream Wednesday afternoon, where Ricks donned a Tennessee hat and unzipped his jacket to reveal a bold orange “VOLS” shirt beneath. “Tennessee just felt like home,” Ricks said. “The coaches believed in me from day one, and with everything happening in Knoxville right now—from NIL to Peyton’s support—I just knew it was the place to grow.”
A Shocking Flip That Redefines the 2025 Landscape
Ricks originally committed to Ohio State in early February, citing their NFL pipeline and wide receiver tradition. However, momentum began shifting in early June after an official visit to Knoxville that included a private tour of the newly-donated “Let’s Fly” jet from Peyton Manning. According to sources close to Ricks, the visit “blew him away,” especially the energy around Coach Josh Heupel’s offensive system and Tennessee’s upward trajectory in the SEC.
Alabama, long considered the favorite for a potential flip, was blindsided when Ricks chose to side with the Vols instead. His decision comes as a major blow to both Ohio State’s and Alabama’s 2025 classes.
What Tennessee Is Getting
Ricks, a 6’2″, 190-pound speedster from Houston, Texas, is known for his elite route running, explosive first step, and highlight-reel catches. His senior year numbers were jaw-dropping: over 1,500 receiving yards and 19 touchdowns. Recruiting analysts believe Ricks has the potential to start immediately and become a centerpiece of Tennessee’s aerial attack.
“This is the biggest WR commit Tennessee’s landed since Jalin Hyatt,” said one recruiting insider. “This is game-changing.”
Reactions from Rocky Top
Coach Josh Heupel welcomed the news with excitement: “Jayden is a special athlete, and an even better person. He believes in our vision, and we believe in him.”
Fans flooded social media with hashtags like #RicksToRockyTop and #FlippedAndFlying, celebrating the Volunteers’ latest triumph in the recruiting arms race.
Final Word
With this monumental flip, Tennessee is proving it’s not just a contender—it’s a destination. And as one fan posted:
“First Peyton gave us wings. Now Jayden gave us fire.”
Watch out, college football. Rocky Top is rising.
