SHOCKING DECISION: Oklahoma Sooners Top RB Jalen Hurts Decommits and Flips Commitment to Penn State Over Alabama
In a stunning recruiting twist that’s shaking up the college football world, Oklahoma Sooners’ top-ranked running back recruit, Jalen Hurts, has officially decommitted from OU and flipped his commitment to Penn State, stunning fans and analysts alike. Even more shocking—he reportedly chose the Nittany Lions over powerhouse Alabama, who had made a strong late push for his services.
Hurts, a dynamic 5-star back out of Texas, had long been considered a cornerstone of Oklahoma’s 2025 class. But whispers of second thoughts began surfacing in recent weeks, with insiders suggesting Penn State’s culture, academic support, and early playing time opportunity made a major impression on the elite rusher during his recent visit to Happy Valley.
“This decision wasn’t easy,” Hurts said in a statement posted to his social media accounts. “I’ve got nothing but love for Oklahoma, but after deep talks with my family and visiting Penn State, I knew where my heart was. Coach Franklin and his staff made me feel like I belonged. I’m all in.”
The flip is a massive win for Penn State, giving them a game-changing offensive weapon just as they look to bolster their identity in the Big Ten’s new competitive landscape. Alabama, who was believed to be in the final two schools vying for Hurts’ commitment, now has to pivot quickly as the 2025 recruiting race heats up.
For Penn State, this move could mark the beginning of a recruiting surge. And for Oklahoma, it’s a wake-up call about how fierce the NIL and relationship-driven battles have become.
