5-Star QB Stuns College Football World with Shocking Decommitment from Wake Forest, Flips Commitment to Longhorns Over Penn State, Tennessee, and More
In a stunning turn of events that has sent shockwaves through the college football landscape, five-star quarterback phenom Jalen Matthews has officially decommitted from Wake Forest and flipped his commitment to the Texas Longhorns. The decision comes just weeks before the start of summer workouts and recruiting camps, shaking up recruiting boards and quarterback depth charts across the country.
Matthews, widely regarded as one of the top quarterback prospects in the 2025 class, originally pledged to Wake Forest last fall in what many considered a surprising move at the time. Known for his laser-sharp accuracy, dual-threat capabilities, and high football IQ, Matthews had been courted by blue blood programs since his sophomore year of high school. His commitment to Wake Forest was seen as a major coup for the Demon Deacons, potentially signaling a new era for the ACC school.
However, in a statement posted on his social media late Monday night, Matthews announced his decision to reopen his recruitment, citing a “change in direction” and a “desire to compete at the highest level.”
“I want to thank the Wake Forest coaching staff and fans for believing in me,” Matthews wrote. “This was not an easy decision, but after careful consideration with my family and coaches, I’ve decided to decommit and commit to the University of Texas. Hook ‘Em!”
The flip comes as a huge win for Texas head coach Steve Sarkisian, who has been aggressively targeting top quarterback talent as the Longhorns prepare for their transition to the SEC. Matthews now headlines Texas’ 2025 recruiting class, which already features several high-profile offensive weapons. With the Longhorns seeking to reestablish themselves as a national powerhouse, Matthews could be the catalyst for a new golden era in Austin.
What makes the decision even more dramatic is that Matthews was also heavily recruited by Penn State, Tennessee, Oregon, and Miami—all schools that remained in contact despite his Wake Forest commitment. Penn State, in particular, was believed to be the frontrunner if Matthews ever reopened his recruitment. Tennessee’s Josh Heupel had also made a strong late push, pitching Matthews on his QB-friendly offensive system.
Recruiting analysts are calling this one of the most high-profile flips of the year, with some comparing it to Quinn Ewers’ high school saga in terms of impact and attention. The timing, so close to summer evaluation periods, will force multiple programs to reconfigure their recruiting plans.
Texas fans are already buzzing with excitement, seeing Matthews as the heir apparent in a quarterback room that has seen major talent turnover in recent years. If his high school performances are any indication—over 3,500 passing yards, 800 rushing yards, and 42 total touchdowns last season—Longhorn fans have every reason to be thrilled.
As for Wake Forest, the loss is a tough blow, and it remains to be seen how the program will adjust its quarterback recruiting strategy moving forward.
One thing is clear: Jalen Matthews has reshaped the 2025 recruiting narrative with one bold decision—and all eyes will now be on Austin.
