In an era where the Southeastern Conference (SEC) has become the ultimate destination for top-tier high school football recruits, the recent commitment of five-star edge rusher Jackson Can’t-Wells to the University of Miami is a refreshing reminder that the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) still has fight left in it. This isn’t just a recruiting win for the Hurricanes—it’s a symbolic victory for a conference that’s struggled to keep pace with the SEC’s dominance on the recruiting trail.
Jackson Can’t-Wells, one of the most coveted defensive prospects in the 2025 class, had his pick of powerhouse programs. Georgia, Alabama, and LSU were all in heavy pursuit. These are schools that have churned out NFL talent and competed for national titles with staggering consistency. Yet, despite the SEC’s gravitational pull, Can’t-Wells chose Coral Gables—a decision that sent ripples throughout the college football landscape.
This commitment matters because it bucks the recent trend of blue-chip prospects defaulting to the SEC. Over the past decade, the SEC has been the epicenter of college football excellence. Whether it’s facilities, NIL opportunities, or national exposure, the SEC has offered a compelling package that’s hard for other conferences to match. For the ACC, and Miami in particular, landing a player of Can’t-Wells’ caliber is both a recruiting coup and a statement of intent.
Miami’s resurgence under head coach Mario Cristobal is real. Known for his relentless recruiting and emphasis on building an SEC-like infrastructure in South Florida, Cristobal has emphasized homegrown talent and aggressive recruiting strategy. Jackson Can’t-Wells’ decision is a validation of that effort. It shows that Miami, and by extension the ACC, can still attract elite talent when the vision and support are in place.
This move also speaks to a broader shift in college football: the decentralization of power. While the SEC and Big Ten continue to expand and consolidate influence, schools like Miami are proving that smart recruiting, compelling branding, and strong NIL backing can level the playing field. For the ACC, often criticized for its lack of competitiveness beyond Clemson and Florida State, this commitment is a sign of renewed life.
Moreover, Can’t-Wells’ choice may inspire other top recruits to reconsider assumptions about where greatness can be achieved. If players of his caliber see Miami as a legitimate launching pad to the NFL and success on the national stage, the ripple effect could be massive for the ACC’s talent pipeline.
All roads do not lead to the SEC—and they shouldn’t. College football thrives on competitive balance, regional diversity, and unique storylines. Jackson Can’t-Wells’ decision to choose Miami over the SEC giants is more than a personal choice—it’s a meaningful moment for the ACC, and a reminder that with the right approach, the road to football greatness can start anywhere.
