In a stunning turn of events, five-star offensive lineman James Reynolds has flipped his commitment from Michigan to Ole Miss, delivering a massive recruiting win for Lane Kiffin and the Rebels. The highly touted prospect, who was originally part of Michigan’s top-five 2025 recruiting class, announced his decision following an official visit to Oxford, citing a strong relationship with the Ole Miss coaching staff and a desire to compete in the SEC.

 

Reynolds, a 6-foot-6, 320-pound standout from Atlanta, Georgia, is widely regarded as one of the top offensive line recruits in the nation. Known for his combination of size, strength, and athleticism, he has been a dominant force at left tackle for his high school team, showcasing the ability to overpower defenders in the run game and protect his quarterback in pass-blocking situations. His skill set has drawn comparisons to NFL Pro Bowl tackles, making him one of the most coveted players in his class.

 

The flip is a major blow to Michigan, which had long been considered a frontrunner in Reynolds’ recruitment. The Wolverines invested significant time and resources in securing his initial pledge, with head coach Jim Harbaugh and offensive line coach Sherrone Moore building a strong rapport with the young prospect. However, Ole Miss entered the picture late in the process and quickly made an impression, thanks in large part to Kiffin’s dynamic recruiting approach and the appeal of playing in the SEC.

 

“I have so much respect for Michigan and everything they stand for,” Reynolds said in his announcement. “But after visiting Ole Miss and spending time with Coach Kiffin and Coach Thornton (Ole Miss offensive line coach), I realized that’s where I want to be. The opportunity to play in the SEC, develop under their coaching, and be part of what they’re building in Oxford was something I couldn’t pass up.”

 

For Ole Miss, landing a player of Reynolds’ caliber is a game-changer. The Rebels have struggled at times to secure elite talent in the trenches, often losing out to traditional powerhouses like Alabama, Georgia, and LSU. Reynolds’ commitment signals a shift in recruiting momentum for Ole Miss, as Kiffin continues to establish the program as a destination for top-tier recruits.

 

“James is an exceptional talent and an even better person,” Kiffin said in a statement. “He brings the size, athleticism, and toughness we need to compete at the highest level. We’re thrilled he’s chosen to be a Rebel, and we can’t wait to see what he’ll accomplish here.”

 

Reynolds’ decision also underscores the growing competitiveness of SEC recruiting. With NIL opportunities, top-notch facilities, and a proven track record of developing NFL talent, schools like Ole Miss are increasingly able to challenge traditional blueblood programs for elite prospects.

 

As Reynolds prepares to enroll at Ole Miss, the Rebels’ coaching staff will look to leverage his commitment to attract additional top recruits. For now, his flip represents a seismic win for Ole Miss and a reminder of how unpredictable the recruiting landscape can be. With Reynolds anchoring their future offensive line, the Rebels appear poised to take a significant step forward in the SEC.