Coach Brent Venables and his staff now face the challenge of recalibrating their quarterback recruiting efforts. Oklahoma will likely look to other top-tier quarterbacks in the class, but finding a player of Hawkins’ caliber so late in the cycle could prove difficult. The Sooners will have to act quickly to solidify their quarterback position for the future, especially with the stakes of competing in the highly competitive Big 12 Conference.

 

 

 

### Alabama, Tennessee, and Georgia Left in the Dust

 

 

 

For Alabama, Tennessee, and Georgia, Hawkins’ decision is a disappointment, as all three schools had legitimate hopes of landing the talented signal-caller. Alabama, with its pedigree of developing NFL quarterbacks, had emerged as a late contender in the recruitment. Head coach Nick Saban’s success at the quarterback position and the school’s consistent excellence in the SEC made them an attractive option for Hawkins.

 

 

 

Tennessee’s offense, led by head coach Josh Heupel and star quarterback Hendon Hooker, has been one of the most explosive in the nation. The Volunteers’ high-tempo, pass-heavy attack was seen as an ideal fit for Hawkins’ skill set. Similarly, Georgia, the reigning national champions, had been in the mix, with Kirby Smart’s program continuing to build on its dominant run in the SEC.

 

 

 

Despite the strong pitches from these schools, Hawkins ultimately chose LSU, a decision that will likely have ripple effects in the SEC. All three of these programs will have to regroup and continue to focus on landing a top quarterback in future recruiting classes.

 

 

 

### What’s Next for Michael Hawkins Jr.?

 

 

 

As Hawkins prepares for his senior season at Allen High School, he’ll now shift his focus to LSU. He’ll look to help lead the Tigers back to prominence in the SEC and take on the challenge of competing at the highest level of college football. Hawkins’ combination of athleticism, arm strength, and leadership abilities makes him one of the most exciting quarterback prospects in the nation.

 

 

 

Hawkins’ commitment is a major building block for LSU’s future, and his decision to join the Tigers signals that the program is on the rise. The addition of Hawkins to LSU’s roster could pay dividends in the coming years, as the Tigers continue to build a championship-contending team under Brian Kelly.

 

 

 

### Conclusion

 

 

 

Michael Hawkins Jr.’s decision to decommit from Oklahoma and commit to LSU is one of the most significant recruiting stories of the 2025 class. The talented quarterback, who had been a prized recruit for the Sooners, has now flipped to join LSU, a program with a rich history of success and a bright future under Coach Brian Kelly. His commitment represents a major victory for the Tigers, while leaving Oklahoma, Alabama, Tennessee, and Georgia to reassess their quarterback strategies. For Hawkins, the next chapter in his football career will unfold at LSU, where he will look to continue his development and lead the Tigers to new heights.