Garrett Witherington Reflects on Positive Official Visit to Mississippi State
Class of 2026 defensive end Garrett Witherington recently wrapped up his official visit to Mississippi State, and the standout prospect came away impressed with what the Bulldogs had to offer. Witherington, who is beginning to attract more national attention, spoke highly of the program, highlighting the warm welcome he received and the strong sense of community in Starkville.
“It was very enjoyable,” Witherington said about the visit, noting that the trip exceeded expectations. From the moment he arrived, he felt comfortable—something he doesn’t take lightly in the recruiting process. “It was like I had already been there before,” he said, reflecting on how natural everything felt throughout his stay.
One of the standout moments for Witherington was spending quality time with Mississippi State’s coaches and current players. Whether it was sharing meals or hanging out in a more relaxed setting, the environment felt like family. “They made me feel like I was already part of the team,” he added. The Bulldogs’ staff clearly made a strong impression, not only with their football pitch but with their genuine and personable approach.
The visit may not have included any flashy headlines or public commitments, but it served as a major step in Mississippi State’s recruitment of Witherington. As one of the top defensive end prospects in his class, his decision will likely come down to more than just football—it’s about fit, trust, and feeling at home.
Mississippi State has now firmly placed itself on Witherington’s radar. With more visits likely ahead, the Bulldogs have laid a solid foundation. Whether Starkville becomes his future home remains to be seen, but there’s no doubt the program made a strong case. For now, Witherington is taking it all in—one step, and one visit, at a time.