Five-star committed to Alabama State football, choosing them over Tennessee and Nebraska. A top recruit making an amazing choice.
The college football recruiting landscape is a whirlwind of speculation, predictions, and often, surprising twists. Few recent commitments have generated as much buzz and discussion as that of five-star offensive lineman, Isaia Glass. In a move that has sent ripples through the recruiting world, Glass has announced his commitment to Alabama State University, a decision that has caught many by surprise, especially given the caliber of other programs vying for his talent.
Glass, a towering and exceptionally skilled offensive tackle, has been one of the most sought-after recruits in the 2025 class. His combination of size, athleticism, and technique has drawn comparisons to some of the best offensive linemen to come out of high school in recent years. Evaluators consistently praise his footwork, his ability to anchor against powerful pass rushers, and his knack for opening up gaping holes in the run game. He possesses the raw talent and football IQ that project him as an immediate impact player at the collegiate level and a strong candidate for future NFL Draft consideration.
For months, the recruiting world had largely focused on a select group of traditional Power Five programs as the likely destinations for Glass. Among the most prominent contenders were the University of Tennessee and the University of Nebraska. Both programs boast rich football histories, passionate fan bases, and the resources to compete at the highest level of college football. Tennessee, under the guidance of Coach Josh Heupel, has been steadily building a formidable offense and prioritizing elite offensive line talent. Nebraska, with its storied past and ongoing efforts to reclaim its status as a national power, has also made offensive line recruiting a top priority. Glass had taken visits to both campuses, and reports indicated strong interest from both sides.
However, the narrative took a dramatic turn with Glass’s commitment to Alabama State. Located in Montgomery, Alabama State competes in the Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC) at the Football Championship Subdivision (FCS) level. While the SWAC is a conference with a proud history and a growing national profile, it is not typically a destination for five-star recruits who have offers from top Power Five programs. This is precisely what makes Glass’s decision so remarkable and, to many, “amazing.”
Glass’s commitment to Alabama State is a testament to several factors. Firstly, it speaks volumes about the vision and persuasive abilities of the coaching staff at Alabama State. To convince a player of Glass’s caliber to choose their program over established national powers requires a compelling pitch, a clear plan for his development, and a strong personal connection. It suggests that the coaches at Alabama State were able to articulate a vision for Glass’s future that resonated deeply with him and his family.
Secondly, Glass’s decision highlights the evolving landscape of college football and the increasing importance of individual circumstances and priorities in the recruiting process. While playing in a Power Five conference offers significant exposure and competition, it may not be the right fit for every player. Factors such as coaching relationships, academic programs, proximity to home, and the opportunity to be a foundational piece of a program’s growth can all play a significant role in a recruit’s decision. Glass’s choice suggests that he found something at Alabama State that he valued more highly than the traditional advantages offered by Tennessee and Nebraska.
Furthermore, Glass’s commitment to an FCS program is a significant moment for the SWAC and for historically black colleges and universities (HBCUs) in general. While HBCUs have always produced incredible football talent, it has been rare for a consensus five-star recruit to choose an FCS school over Power Five offers. Glass’s decision could potentially open doors and inspire other highly-rated recruits to consider HBCUs as viable and attractive options for their collegiate careers. It shines a national spotlight on Alabama State and the quality of football being played in the SWAC.
The impact of Glass’s commitment on Alabama State’s football program cannot be overstated. Landing a five-star recruit of his caliber immediately elevates the program’s profile and credibility. It will undoubtedly generate excitement among the fanbase and could serve as a catalyst for attracting other talented players to the university. Having a player like Glass on the roster will also provide invaluable experience for his teammates and raise the overall level of play within the program.
While the decision is certainly a win for Alabama State, it is a setback for Tennessee and Nebraska. Both programs had invested significant time and resources in recruiting Glass, and his decision to go elsewhere will require them to adjust their recruiting strategies and focus on other targets. However, the reality of college football recruiting is that not every battle is won, and programs must constantly adapt to the unpredictable nature of the process.
For Isaia Glass, this commitment represents a bold and potentially transformative step in his football journey. He is choosing a path less traveled, one that will undoubtedly come with its own unique challenges and opportunities. He will have the chance to be a cornerstone of a program looking to make its mark on the national stage. His decision is a reminder that the most important factor in recruiting is finding the right fit, a place where a player can thrive both on and off the field.
The story of Isaia Glass’s commitment is far from over. His arrival at Alabama State will be closely watched, and his performance on the field will be a major storyline in the coming years. But for now, the news is clear: five-star Isaia Glass has committed to Alabama State football, choosing them over Tennessee and Nebraska. It is a top recruit making an amazing choice, one that has captured the attention of the college football world and highlighted the diverse and ever-evolving landscape of recruiting. The Hornets have landed a truly special talent, and the future looks brighter with Isaia Glass leading the way in the trenches. The top-ranked five-star Isaia Glass is heading to Montgomery, and the college football world is buzzing.
