• Craig Haubert, ESPN Staff WriterJul 3, 2023, 07:10 AM ET

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    • National recruiting analyst and analyst for ESPNU
    • More than a decade of college and pro coaching experience.
    • Graduated from Indiana and Nebraska-Omaha

The flurry of June commitments paired with updated ESPN 300 player rankings has shaken up the college football recruiting class rankings as the calendar turns to July. Georgia continues to lead the pack with a nation-leading 15 ESPN 300 commits, and even though there was a change at the top of the player rankings with cornerback Ellis Robinson IV unseating quarterback Dylan Raiola for the No. 1 spot, it didn’t impact the Bulldogs’ class at all, as they hold commitments from both five-stars.

The race behind Georgia is becoming increasingly intense with longtime rival Florida moving up to No. 2. The Gators’ class is also led by a pair of five-stars in defensive end Jamonta Waller and QB D.J. Lagway, and they also recently added ESPN 300 wide receiver Jerrae Hawkins, who’s diminutive but quick and can create after the catch.

Holding on to that No. 2 ranking will be tough, as several programs, including Big Ten representatives Michigan, Ohio State and new top-five entry Penn State, are all contending as well. The Buckeyes and Wolverines are right on the Gators’ heels as each has made key additions. Ohio State added commitments from CB Bryce West and DT Justin Scott, who each rank among the top five at their respective positions. While Michigan dipped a bit in the ranking, it still remains a strong contender. The Wolverines’ class added a pair of ESPN 300 commits in the player update: quick and disruptive edge defender Jaden Smith and OL Blake Frazier.

Penn State was a big mover after changes in the ESPN 300 rankings helped boost their class. QB Ethan Grunkemeyer, a passer with a quick release, was a big riser after a strong performance at the Elite 11 finals, and converted QB Luke Reynolds moved into the 300 as a tight end with good physical tools and upside to develop into a highly productive target in its passing attack.

The recruiting battle out West intensified as USC continued its ascent and pushed past Oregon. The Trojans not only saw committed linebacker Elijah Newby move into the ESPN 300, they also added several other commits, including top in-state WRs Xavier Jordan and Ryan Pellum, which further deepens an already talented young receiving corps.

Nebraska and Purdue are programs with new head coaches working on their first full classes, and those three fan bases should be happy with the early returns, as all three have steered their respective classes into the top 25. Matt Rhule is doing well keeping top in-state talent in Nebraska, including versatile TE Carter Nelson. Ryan Walters and his staff helped Purdue improve with a busy June on the recruiting trail, landing one of the nation’s top safety prospects in the speedy Koy Beasley.

A year ago at this time, Texas had the recruiting world buzzing with the commitment of five-star QB Arch Manning. Success has come a little slower in the 2024 class, but the Longhorns have picked up steam this summer and now have broken into the top 25. Among multiple additions are explosive and versatile No. 1 RB Jerrick Gibson and top-10 CB Jordon Johnson-Rubell.