Five-Star QB Jared Curtis Chooses Georgia over Oregon, Shifting 2026 Recruitment Dynamics - (2025)

Updated: 18/05/2025

College football fans were met with surprising news as the NCAA disciplined five Iowa State staffers for involvement in sports gambling. However, amid the disciplinary actions, the spotlight quickly shifted to the commitment of five-star quarterback Jared Curtis. Curtis, the No. 5 prospect in the 2026 ESPN 300, made a significant announcement by choosing the Georgia Bulldogs over the Oregon Ducks, marking a pivotal moment in the 2026 recruitment cycle.

Having decommitted from Georgia previously, Curtis brought attention back to the Bulldogs with his decision. Standing at 6-foot-4 and 225 pounds, Curtis possesses exceptional arm talent, ideal physical attributes, and a competitive spirit that set him apart as the top quarterback in his class. The Nashville native, who dominated at his 2A private school, showcased his versatility as both a passer and a crafty runner, drawing comparisons to current college quarterbacks like Garrett Nussmeier of LSU.

His return to the Bulldogs' recruitment class not only solidifies his potential as the quarterback of the future in Athens but also underlines the coaching prowess of Kirby Smart and his staff. Curtis's commitment places him among the top talents in Georgia's incoming class, promising to enhance an already formidable roster as the Bulldogs push for a remarkable tenth consecutive top-three signing class.

Scouting the Talent: What Makes Curtis Stand Out

Observers of Curtis's game praise his natural arm power, impressive velocity, and ability to navigate through various arm angles effortlessly. His agility and astuteness on the field enable him to extend plays and evade pressure, reflecting his unique skill set that extends beyond traditional quarterback attributes.

However, despite his undeniable talent, some critics point to the lack of elite competition faced by Curtis at Nashville Christian, raising questions about how he will transition to more challenging environments. Nevertheless, his winning mentality, competitive drive, and innate abilities emphasize his potential to succeed at the collegiate level.

Impact on Georgia's Quarterback Lineup

Curtis's commitment to Georgia adds depth and talent to the Bulldogs' quarterback room, which includes Gunner Stockton, a highly-rated dual-threat QB from the 2022 class, and Ryan Puglisi, a promising redshirt freshman. With the arrival of Curtis and the signing of two quarterbacks in the 2025 class, Georgia's quarterback lineup is poised for competition and growth.

While Stockton is anticipated to lead the Bulldogs in the coming seasons, Puglisi's undeniable potential and the influx of new talent, including Curtis, suggest a dynamic quarterback battle on the horizon. The commitment of Curtis may also prompt roster adjustments, potentially leading to player movements within the program.

Recruitment Focus: Georgia vs. Oregon

The recruitment landscape between Georgia and Oregon intensifies with every high-profile commitment. Georgia's successful pursuit of Curtis positions him as a cornerstone in their 2026 class, amplifying their focus on securing top talents like Derrek Cooper, Savion Hiter, Jae Lamar, Kaiden Prothro, Immanuel Iheanacho, and other coveted prospects across different positions.

On the other hand, Oregon, despite missing out on Curtis, remains active in the recruitment market with a strategic approach. The Ducks, with a strong quarterback lineup for the foreseeable future, are eyeing potential targets like Keisean Henderson and Ryder Lyons to bolster their squad, ensuring a competitive edge in the evolving college football landscape.

Impact on Quarterback Recruitment Landscape

Following Curtis's commitment, the quarterback recruitment landscape undergoes a shift with several top prospects yet to announce their decisions. Programs like Oregon, Alabama, Auburn, LSU, and others are poised to intensify their efforts amidst the narrowing pool of uncommitted quarterbacks in the 2026 ESPN 300. As schools reevaluate their recruiting strategies, the competition for top talents is expected to heighten in the months leading up to the early signing period.

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