News Now: CJ May decommits from Notre Dame football 2025 recruiting class
In a surprising twist for Notre Dame football’s 2025 recruiting class, four-star edge rusher CJ May has officially decommitted from the program. The news broke on Sunday, sending a ripple through the college football recruiting landscape and raising questions about what might have led to the change in course.
May, a standout from Highland Home High School in Alabama, had initially committed to Notre Dame in November 2023. At the time, he praised the coaching staff, campus atmosphere, and the program’s tradition of excellence. His commitment was seen as a significant win for the Fighting Irish, who had been aggressively building their defensive line for the 2025 cycle.
Now, just six months later, the talented edge rusher has decided to reopen his recruitment.
“After a lot of thought, prayer, and conversations with my family, I have decided to decommit from the University of Notre Dame,” May wrote on social media. “I want to thank the coaches and the staff for believing in me and giving me the opportunity. I have nothing but respect for the program.”
May is ranked among the top edge rushers in the 2025 class and holds offers from several powerhouse programs, including Alabama, Auburn, Georgia, and LSU. With his decommitment, it’s widely expected that SEC schools will become the primary contenders for his signature.
While Notre Dame still holds several strong commitments in its 2025 class, May’s decision comes as a notable loss. He was projected to be a future difference-maker on the defensive front and had become a vocal ambassador for the Irish on the recruiting trail. His departure could also impact the momentum Notre Dame had been building in the Southeast, where the competition for elite talent is fierce.
Recruiting analysts suggest that the shift may not necessarily indicate dissatisfaction with Notre Dame, but rather a change in perspective as May continues to evaluate his options.
“It’s common for early commits to reassess things as they take more visits and talk to other schools,” said recruiting analyst Brian Dohn. “CJ May is the kind of player who will have opportunities at just about any program he chooses.”
Notre Dame fans will now turn their attention to whether the Irish can re-engage May later in the cycle or if they will pivot to other top prospects to fill the void. Either way, the Fighting Irish coaching staff will need to recalibrate its approach on the defensive line, especially as signing day draws closer.
For now, CJ May remains one of the most coveted uncommitted players in the 2025 class. His next steps will be closely watched, and wherever he lands, he’s expected to make an immediate impact.
