The recruiting battle is heating up as the 2025 high school football offseason explodes. And top prospects are making moves, scheduling visits, and locking in their futures. But all eyes have been on one Georgia defensive back — the NFL veteran’s son who skyrocketed 43 spots to claim the No. 1 ranking. His commitment was originally set for Feb 19, but he hit the brakes, keeping fans and programs on edge. As of now, the wait is over, and he’s down to five powerhouses — Alabama, Oklahoma, Georgia, Vols, and Florida. But let’s be real, this battle has always been about two elite coaches: Kirby Smart and Kalen DeBoer. And now, the final announcement is here — who will take the crown?
In the March 6 episode of The Ultimate College Football Show on 247Sports, the panel — Cooper Petagna, Tom Loy, Emily Proud, and Hudson Standish — dove into the college future of Jorden Edmonds, the son of NFL veteran Chris Edmonds. And when it came to praise, Cooper didn’t hold back. While Jorden’s stock is rising fast, the CFB world is taking notice.
Well, standing at 6’2.5″ and 175 pounds, Jorden Edmonds is the total package. His rare blend of length, agility, and versatility makes him a nightmare for opposing offenses. With a basketball background and NFL bloodlines, his athleticism speaks for itself. On top of that, he turned heads at the Navy All-American Bowl as a junior and stole the show at the Under Armour Combine, earning Alpha Dog honors.
Given that, Cooper said, “Six, two and a half, 175 pounds — what you see on the screen there. But a two-way athlete, has a basketball background, also the genetics. Dad played in the NFL. And this was another guy who showed up at the Navy All-American Bowl as a junior and really excelled in that type of format. You also look at him in Atlanta. We got to see him at the Under Armour Combine. Guy that took home Alpha Dog honors… We love Jordan Edmonds, everything from an athletic standpoint, but the player is certainly rounding into form as well.”
And now, here’s the moment of truth — where will Jorden Edmonds call home? Ranked as the No. 53 player in the nation, the No. 4 recruit in Georgia, and the No. 5 CB, Edmonds is one of the most sought-after prospects in the 2026 class. That is why, both Alabama and Georgia have rolled out the red carpet, each hosting him three times. You know, at one point, he was on the verge of committing to the Crimson Tide, but the Bulldogs have been relentless in their efforts to keep him in-state.
Then came the big reveal from Tom Loy. “Got Tennessee, Florida, Oklahoma — all very much in play. He will take trips to all three schools, but I really think this is a battle between Alabama and Georgia. It’s something we’ve seen a million times. He was super close to picking the Crimson Tide, recently decided to put the pause button on his process. Georgia doing all they can to keep him home. But I would still give a slight edge to the Crimson Tide,” said the 247Sports’ insider.
Looks like Jorden’s NFL bloodline is fueling his recruitment battle. His father, Chris Edmonds, a former NFL linebacker, made a name for himself with All-Conference honors in college and multiple seasons in the league. But now, it’s not about the past — it’s about where this 4-star CB wants to carve his own path. And that’s the only thing that matters.
Does the star CB have a landing possibility with Kalen DeBoer?
Jorden Edmonds didn’t hold back when talking to On3 about his recruitment. And right now, one school sits on top — Kalen DeBoer’s Alabama. “All four are still very high on my list, but Alabama has the top spot,” Jorden said. However, he’s been to Tuscaloosa four or five times, and each visit feels like home. And the coaches? They treat him and his family like family; that matters. And another big factor? Early playing time.
As of now, he sees himself fitting right into the rotation. And then there’s Coach Mo – Maurice Linguist. Jorden sees the fire, the energy, and the passion. “At practice, Coach Mo is sweating, working with his players, and he takes it personal,” said the standout CB. Right now, Bama is in the driver’s seat. However, in recruiting, anything can happen.
See, nothing is set in stone just yet. The 4-star CB hasn’t locked in his official visits, and that could change everything. But when asked about Tennessee, he had plenty to say. “Tennessee was one of my earlier offers, and I have only been there once, but they have really recruited me hard. I like how they coach. I train with some players that are going there, and I wanted to get back on campus. Tennessee has been playing well, and I like that they are doing,” said Jorden.
So for now, it looks like he’ll take his official visits in the spring and summer before making his final call. But who’s gonna seal this deal? Kirby Smart, Kalen DeBoer, or could a third contender steal the spotlight? The fight continues…
The post Clear Frontrunner Between Kirby Smart and Kalen DeBoer Announced for NFL Veteran’s Son Who Jumped 43 Spots to No. 1 appeared first on EssentiallySports.
