Vanderbilt Football Kicks Off Its 2025 Signing Class: What to Know
The Vanderbilt Commodores are gearing up to welcome their 2025 football signing class, starting this Wednesday. With just 13 commitments lined up, this marks the smallest class in the entire Southeastern Conference (SEC), where other teams have secured at least 19 recruits. Despite the modest size, there’s a lot to unpack about Vanderbilt’s approach to the upcoming season, its recruiting strategy, and the broader landscape of college football. Let’s dive in!
Why the Early Signing Period Matters More This Year
The early football signing period has shifted forward this year, and it’s no small change. The NCAA aimed to make life a little easier for coaches, who are typically juggling multiple high-stakes priorities in December. Think about it—recruiting high school talent, navigating the bustling transfer portal, prepping for bowl games, and strategizing for the College Football Playoff. Moving the early signing period gives coaches some breathing room, aligning better with these demands.
And speaking of the transfer portal—it’s buzzing. The portal officially opens Monday for non-graduate transfers, and Vanderbilt figures to lean heavily on this system to build their roster alongside traditional high school recruiting.
Big Changes Ahead: New Roster Limits
Another twist for the 2025 season comes in the form of updated roster limits. Starting that year, teams will need to keep their total player count under 105. The silver lining? Every one of those 105 players can now be on scholarship, leveling the playing field in a way we haven’t seen before. This change could be a game-changer for programs like Vanderbilt, where strategic roster management is key to success.
What Vanderbilt Needs for 2025
Coach Clark Lea has his work cut out for him as Vanderbilt faces several positional gaps heading into 2025. Key needs include:
- Quarterback: The cornerstone of any team’s offense.
- Wide Receiver & Punter: Critical for both scoring and field position battles.
- Safety & Edge Rusher: Vital to shoring up the defense.
- Offensive Line: Essential for protecting the QB and establishing the run game.
The Commodores will need a mix of high school recruits and seasoned transfers to fill these roles effectively.
Meet the 2025 Signees
Despite being the smallest class in the SEC, Vanderbilt has locked in some exciting talent. Here’s a closer look at a few key recruits:
-
EDGE Jake Stanish
- Hometown/School: Naperville, Ill. / Naperville Central
- Vitals: 6'4", 230 lbs
- 247Sports Ranking: Three stars; national rank: No. 1507
-
CB Vanzale Hinton
- Hometown/School: Paducah, Ky. / Paducah Tilghman
- Vitals: 6'0", 185 lbs
- 247Sports Ranking: Three stars; national rank: No. 773
-
S Davin Chandler
- Hometown/School: Berlin, Md. / Stephen Decatur
- Vitals: 6'2", 180 lbs
- 247Sports Ranking: Three stars; national rank: No. 864
-
CB Cayden Daniels
- Hometown/School: Cordele, Ga. / Crisp County
- Vitals: 5'11", 170 lbs
- 247Sports Ranking: Three stars; national rank: No. 938
This group might not dominate national rankings, but their potential fits Vanderbilt’s unique needs and developmental approach.
Why the Class Ranks Low (and Why That’s Okay)
As of December 3, Vanderbilt’s incoming freshman class sits at No. 72 in the 247Sports Composite rankings. That’s not stellar by SEC standards, but there’s more to the story.
The class’s small size plays a significant role in this lower ranking. Historically, Vanderbilt has faced challenges in landing top-tier high school recruits due to its stringent academic standards and smaller football culture compared to powerhouses like Alabama or Georgia. However, what the Commodores lack in size, they often make up for with transfer portal acquisitions and player development.
Clark Lea’s ability to turn Vanderbilt into a competitive program will depend heavily on leveraging this year’s success to attract high-caliber transfers.
Who Else Is on Vanderbilt’s Radar?
Recruiting doesn’t stop on signing day. Vanderbilt has its eyes on several uncommitted and potential flip candidates:
-
Safety Jakarrion Kenan
A former Rutgers commit, Kenan is now weighing offers from Virginia Tech, NC State, and Vanderbilt. Analysts suggest the Commodores have a strong shot at landing him. -
Cornerback Donovan Starr
Although committed to Auburn, Starr has drawn attention from Vanderbilt. While flipping him seems unlikely, his recruitment remains worth watching.
Key Dates to Mark on Your Calendar
- Early Signing Day 2024: Players who want to commit early can sign between December 4-6, 2024.
- Late Signing Day 2025: Still to be officially announced but traditionally falls in early February.
What’s Next for Vanderbilt Football?
As the Commodores look ahead, the focus remains on blending high school recruits with transfer talent to build a well-rounded roster. The team’s bowl performance and offseason moves will likely play a pivotal role in shaping the perception of Vanderbilt as a destination for top athletes.
The road ahead is challenging, but with Coach Clark Lea at the helm, Vanderbilt fans have reason to stay optimistic. The Commodores may not have the largest class, but strategic planning and execution could help them punch above their weight in the SEC.
So, buckle up, Commodore Nation—it’s going to be an exciting ride to 2025!
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