The Georgia Bulldogs have been named as one of the favorites to land five-star offensive tackle recruit Jackson Cantwell. Cantwell, who is ranked as the No. 1 recruit in the nation in the class of 2026, plays high school football for Nixa High School in Nixa, Missouri.
The five-star offensive tackle is ranked as the No. 1 player at his position and the top recruit in Missouri. The 6-foot-7, 300-pound lineman recently named his top six schools including UGA (Georgia, Miami, Missouri, Michigan, Ohio State and Oregon).
The Bulldogs are hoping to land some elite offensive line talent in the 2026 cycle. Georgia is expected to battle until early signing day to land Cantwell.
“Georgia has always been a front-runner,” said Steve Wiltfong (subscription required), who believes that Georgia and Oregon are the favorites to land Cantwell. “I like where they (Georgia and Oregon) both stand the most. I believe there is confidence around Athens.”
One key factor in Cantwell’s recruitment is track and field. Cantwell, who also plays basketball in high school, is expected to throw (shot put and/or discuss) in track and field events in college, so he will also weigh Georgia and Oregon’s respective track programs.
Head coach Kirby Smart and Georgia have a strong recruiting pitch to elite offensive line prospects. Over the last five NFL drafts, Georgia has had five offensive linemen selected in the first round.
This article originally appeared on UGA Wire: Georgia Bulldogs considered ‘front-runner’ for nation’s best recruit
