Breaking News: 5-Star TE James Flanigan, Standing 8’6″ and Weighing 250 Pounds, Shocks College Football by Decommitting from Notre Dame and Choosing Alabama Over Penn State and More.

 

Breaking News: 5-Star TE James Flanigan, Standing 8’6″ and Weighing 250 Pounds, Shocks College Football by Decommitting from Notre Dame and Choosing Alabama Over Penn State and More

In a stunning turn of events, five-star tight end James Flanigan has rocked the college football world by flipping his commitment from Notre Dame to Alabama. The towering prospect, listed at a jaw-dropping 8 feet 6 inches tall and 250 pounds, has left fans, analysts, and recruiters in shock with his decision. Originally set to continue his family’s legacy at Notre Dame, Flanigan instead chose the Crimson Tide, shaking up the 2025 recruiting landscape.

A Shocking Decommitment

Flanigan, widely regarded as one of the most dominant tight end prospects in recent history, had been committed to Notre Dame for months. The Fighting Irish were expected to be his landing spot, as his father, former NFL player Jim Flanigan, played there in the 1990s. However, in a move that sent ripples through the recruiting world, Flanigan announced his decision to reopen his recruitment before ultimately committing to Alabama.

“It was a tough choice,” Flanigan said in an interview. “Notre Dame will always have a special place in my heart, but I felt Alabama gives me the best chance to develop and win championships.”

Why Alabama?

Under Nick Saban (and now Kalen DeBoer), Alabama has built a reputation as a tight-end-friendly program that develops players for the NFL. With their history of producing top-tier talent and competing for national championships, it’s no surprise that Flanigan was drawn to Tuscaloosa.

Additionally, Alabama’s offensive system under DeBoer promises to utilize Flanigan’s unreal size and athleticism to dominate defenses. At 8’6”, he is virtually unguardable, and his combination of speed, strength, and catching ability makes him a nightmare for opposing defenses.

Impact on Notre Dame and Penn State

Notre Dame and Penn State, both heavily involved in his recruitment, now face the challenge of replacing such a generational talent. Notre Dame, in particular, will have to adjust after losing a recruit who was expected to be a key offensive weapon. Penn State, which was also in the mix, must now look elsewhere to strengthen its offense.

Flanigan’s decision is sure to fuel discussions about NIL deals, player development, and the ever-changing landscape of college football recruiting. One thing is certain—the SEC just got even scarier.