Ask every college football coach about recruiting, and the responses are similar: It never stops.
The first Wednesday in February marks the beginning of the traditional signing period. Because of December's signing window, however, February is more a changing of the guard in the recruiting world.
So long, 2023 class. Hello for real, 2024.
While the order of the upcoming cycle's top prospects is subjective, consider it more of an early "who's who" of prospects. Everything from personal opinions to the industry consensus and team evaluations are destined to change.
25-21. Stone to Lagway
25. David Stone, DL
Height/Weight: 6'4", 270 lbs
1 Thing to Know: One of many coveted prospects from IMG Academy in Florida, Stone is from Oklahoma. Along with OU, Michigan State is a key program to watch in the early stages for Stone.
24. Kam Pringle, OT
Height/Weight: 6'7", 338 lbs
1 Thing to Know: South Carolina picked up 2023 5-star edge-rusher Nyckoles Harbor at the beginning of February's signing period. A week-and-a-half prior, the Gamecocks landed Pringle. Since he's currently rated as the No. 1 prospect from the state in 247Sports' composite rankings, Pringle has additional value for South Carolina.
23. Nigel Smith II, DL
Height/Weight: 6'5", 260 lbs
1 Thing to Know: Save for Oregon, Smith's recruitment is heavily focused on the traditional Big 12 footprint. The asterisk is that Texas A&M and future SEC schools Oklahoma and Texas are among the notable suitors.
22. Cam Williams, WR
Height/Weight: 6'2", 185 lbs
1 Thing to Know: The first of two Notre Dame pledges on this list, Williams is a high-priority target for the program. Wide receiver is a position of immense need in South Bend, so Notre Dame will be especially vigilant in holding the Chicago-area receiver's commitment.
21. DJ Lagway, QB
Height/Weight: 6'2", 225 lbs
1 Thing to Know: Lagway became particularly important for Florida recently. Because of a failed name, image and likeness deal, 2023 signee Jaden Rashada requested and received a release from his letter of intent. The departure cleared the path for Lagway to become the Gators' quarterback of the future, but they need to keep him.
