Just Now: An elite 5-star safety flips commitment to Ohio State over Penn State Nittany, Michigan wolverines and Michigan State Spartans….

In a significant development in college football recruiting, five-star safety Jontae Gilbert has flipped his commitment from Penn State to Ohio State. Gilbert, a 6-foot-1, 175-pound prospect from Atlanta Douglass High School, is widely regarded as one of the top defensive talents in the 2025 class. Prior to this change, he had been committed to Penn State since July 2022. citeturn0search0

This commitment bolsters Ohio State’s already impressive 2025 recruiting class, which includes other notable defensive prospects. The class is currently ranked fifth nationally, with key additions such as five-star quarterback Tavien St. Clair and cornerback Devin Sanchez. citeturn0news17

Gilbert’s decision underscores Ohio State’s growing influence in the recruitment of elite defensive players. The Buckeyes have previously secured commitments from top-rated safeties, including Sonny Styles, who chose Ohio State over offers from Notre Dame and Alabama. citeturn0search3 Additionally, they faced challenges with other high-profile defensive recruits, such as cornerback Na’eem Offord, who flipped to Oregon despite an initial commitment to Ohio State. citeturn0search2

For Penn State, losing Gilbert is a setback, as he was a cornerstone of their defensive recruiting efforts. The Nittany Lions will need to reassess their strategy to fill the void left by Gilbert’s departure.

Overall, Gilbert’s commitment to Ohio State highlights the dynamic nature of college football recruiting, where elite prospects frequently change allegiances, and programs continually adapt to secure top talent.