Sarasota (Fla.) Cardinal Mooney’s Elijah Golden, a Top247 defensive lineman and the No. 107 overall prospect in the 2026 class, is set to announce his college commitment on July 26 at 3:30 p.m. ET. His finalists are Alabama, Notre Dame, Oklahoma, and Virginia Tech, with Golden planning to reveal his decision live on the 247Sports YouTube channel and CBS Sports HQ. Golden, a standout at the 2025 Navy All-American Bowl, is ranked as the nation’s No. 16 defensive lineman and Florida’s No. 12 overall prospect.
Meanwhile, Alabama commit Jamarion Matthews made it official over the weekend that he’s shutting down his recruitment, emphasizing his firm pledge to the Crimson Tide. Matthews, who transferred to Gainesville (Ga.) High for his senior season, announced the decision in an emotional social media post thanking his family and expressing his excitement to stay committed.
Matthews was also present as his longtime friend and fellow Alabama target, Xavier Griffin, committed to the Tide. The duo, close since childhood, are eager to continue playing together at Alabama.
Notre Dame Stars Highlight Walter Camp Preseason All-America Team
Notre Dame running back Jeremiyah Love and cornerback Leonard Moore were both named to the Walter Camp Preseason All-America First Team for the 2025 season. Love, coming off a standout sophomore season with 1,125 rushing yards and 17 touchdowns, is projected as one of the top backs in college football and a likely 2026 first-round NFL Draft pick. Head coach Marcus Freeman praised Love’s rare speed, balance, and vision.
Moore earned his spot after an impressive freshman campaign in which he stepped up to a starting role midseason and held opposing quarterbacks to a 40.5% completion rate over his final nine games. He finished with 48 tackles, 11 pass breakups, and two forced fumbles, quickly establishing himself among the top corners in the nation.
Alabama also boasts two players on the Walter Camp first team: wide receiver Ryan Williams and offensive lineman Kadyn Proctor, as the Crimson Tide and Fighting Irish both place multiple players among the nation’s preseason elite.
Top Alabama, Notre Dame Stars Highlight 2025 Walter Camp All-America List
