National Signing Day is just around the corner, and while excitement fills the air, the Big 12’s recruiting landscape is largely settled. The Early Signing Day in December has reshaped the traditional recruiting timeline, with many top prospects already committed and enrolled at their respective colleges. This shift means that the focus now shifts to the impressive talent that the Big 12 has secured for the upcoming season.
Big 12’s Freshman Talent Surge
The Big 12 is in a strong position, boasting a wealth of top incoming freshman talent. Many players have not only signed but have also enrolled early, allowing them to get a head start on their college careers. This influx of talent is crucial for teams looking to make a mark in the upcoming season, and fans should be excited about the potential impact these young athletes will have on the field.
Top 10 Big 12 Recruits of 2025
As we dive deeper into the recruiting class of 2025, let’s take a closer look at the top 10 impact freshmen who are set to make waves in the Big 12. These athletes have demonstrated exceptional skills and promise, and they are ready to contribute to their teams in various ways.
1. Linkon Cure, Kansas State TE
Perhaps the nation’s top tight end prospect, Cure had some last-minute interest from Oregon but ultimately chose to stick with Kansas State. Standing at 6-foot-5, this standout tight end is expected to make an immediate impact, ready to catch passes in the middle of the field. His ability to contribute in 2025 is almost guaranteed, making him a player to watch closely.
2. Julian Lewis, Colorado QB
A dynamic quarterback from Georgia, Coach Prime successfully recruited Lewis away from USC just before Signing Day. Not only has Lewis signed, but he has also enrolled early, positioning himself to take advantage of Colorado’s explosive offense. At just over six feet tall and still only 17 years old, Lewis’s future looks incredibly bright.
3. Chad Woodfork, TCU DE
An in-state pass-rushing standout, Woodfork measures in at 6-foot-4 and possesses the athleticism needed to excel as either a defensive end or linebacker. Although he signed with TCU, he did not enroll early. His versatility and potential as an edge rusher make him a player to keep an eye on in the coming years.
4. Carde Smith, Colorado OL
Colorado secured a 6-foot-5 tackle prospect from Alabama, pulling Smith away from USC in the lead-up to Signing Day. An early enrollee, Smith is set to use the spring to bulk up and prepare for the challenges of college football. With Colorado’s offensive line in flux, Smith could find himself in a position to contribute early.
5. London Merritt, Colorado DE
Merritt, a formidable pass rusher from IMG Academy in Florida, was a late addition to Colorado’s roster after flipping from Ohio State just before Early Signing Day. At 6-foot-2 and 250 pounds, he already possesses the size necessary to compete at the collegiate level. His early enrollment means he will be participating in spring practice, giving him a chance to break into the rotation.
6. Adam Schobel, TCU QB
Schobel is an impressive in-state quarterback prospect who made the switch from Oklahoma State to TCU. While he signed with the Horned Frogs, he did not enroll early. With a staggering high school record of 94 touchdowns to just eight interceptions, Schobel has the potential to shine in TCU’s offense, although he may need some time to polish his skills.
7. Kaleb Burns, Baylor LB
Burns, a Texas linebacker prospect, chose to remain with Baylor despite receiving numerous late offers. At six feet and 220 pounds, he may need to add some weight to compete effectively at the college level. A track and field star, Burns is expected to see early action on the Baylor defense, bringing speed and athleticism to the position.
8. Terry Shelton, TCU WR
A four-star recruit, Shelton was a late flip from Arizona to TCU. Standing at 6-foot-4, he is an athletic player who also excelled in basketball and track. Although he signed with TCU, he did not enroll early. His size and skill set make him a strong candidate for immediate playing time, and he could become a key target in the Horned Frogs’ passing game.
9. Isaiah Mizell, Arizona WR
Mizell, a highly-touted recruit from Florida, has drawn attention for his speed, although his 160-pound frame raises questions about his readiness for college football. He signed with Arizona but did not enroll early. With a family background in athletics—his brother played in Florida, and his mother was an Olympic sprinter—Mizell could become a dynamic kick returner and playmaker for the Wildcats.
10. Michael Turner, Baylor RB
Turner, a 5-foot-11 running back from Texas, was an important signing for Baylor. He committed early and remained loyal to the Bears, although he did not enroll early. Known for his explosive speed, Turner is expected to compete for carries in 2025 and could develop into a standout player in the coming years.
What do you think of the Big 12’s recruiting haul? With so much talent on the way, the future looks bright for these programs. Share your thoughts in the comments below!
