Massive Win for Mizzou: 5-Star, 295-Pound OL Donovan Jackson Flips Commitment from Tennessee and Georgia to Join Tigers
In a stunning recruiting shakeup, five-star offensive guard Donovan Jackson has officially flipped his commitment to the Missouri Tigers, turning down powerhouse programs like the Tennessee Volunteers and the Georgia Bulldogs. The 6-foot-4, 295-pound mauler from Houston, Texas, had long been considered a lock for either the SEC champion Bulldogs or the resurgent Volunteers. But in a dramatic twist, Jackson announced late Monday that he’s headed to Columbia, Missouri — delivering a seismic win for head coach Eliah Drinkwitz and the Tigers.
Jackson, widely regarded as one of the top offensive linemen in the 2025 class, brings a rare blend of size, footwork, and explosiveness. His commitment elevates Missouri’s recruiting class into the national spotlight and sends a strong message that the Tigers are no longer a secondary option in SEC recruiting battles.
According to multiple sources close to the decision, Jackson’s flip was influenced by a combination of factors: Missouri’s rapid development of NFL-caliber talent, the strong relationship he built with the Tigers’ offensive line coach, and the chance to make an immediate impact. Insiders also cite Missouri’s aggressive NIL package and a campus visit earlier this month that left a lasting impression on Jackson and his family.
“This wasn’t about hype — it was about fit,” Jackson said in his commitment announcement. “Missouri believed in me from day one. They showed me a vision, not just for my future in football, but for my future as a man. That meant everything.”
Jackson’s decision to reject Tennessee and Georgia — two programs with deep playoff ambitions — adds an even sharper edge to the news. Georgia had been particularly confident in landing Jackson, having hosted him multiple times in Athens and pitching him on becoming the next great Bulldog lineman. Tennessee, meanwhile, had poured resources into his recruitment, hoping to anchor their next class around the elite interior blocker.
But Missouri outmaneuvered them both.
Coach Drinkwitz, who has been steadily reshaping the Tigers’ identity, celebrated the win on social media with a cryptic tiger emoji and the word “SECshift.” It’s clear this isn’t just about one player — it’s about changing the perception of Missouri as a program that can’t compete with the elite.
“This is the kind of recruit who changes your offensive line room, changes your locker room, and changes how recruits see your school,” said a prominent SEC analyst. “It’s not just a win — it’s a statement.”
Jackson is expected to compete for a starting role as soon as he arrives on campus, and his presence could help solidify Missouri’s offensive front for years to come. More importantly, his decision could spark a domino effect, encouraging other top recruits to give the Tigers a second look.
With this major recruiting coup, Missouri is clearly signaling its intent: the Tigers are hunting bigger game in the SEC jungle — and they’re ready to win.
