Top Defensive End C.J. May Chooses Louisville Cardinals, Shares His Reasons for Commitment
C.J. May, a highly regarded defensive end from Highland Home High School in Alabama, committed to the Louisville Cardinals in July 2024. Standing 6-foot-4 and weighing 225 pounds, May was previously committed to Notre Dame but de-committed in February 2024. He chose Louisville over offers from Auburn, Syracuse, Washington, Clemson, Penn State, and Tennessee. citeturn0search7
May cited the strong relationships with Louisville’s coaching staff as a key factor in his decision. He expressed that the coaches made him feel like “one of them,” highlighting the importance of these connections in his commitment. citeturn0search8
During his junior season, May recorded impressive statistics, including 54 total tackles, 10 tackles for loss, six pass breakups, 7.5 sacks, two forced fumbles, two fumble recoveries, and an interception returned for a touchdown. citeturn0search7
His commitment significantly bolstered Louisville’s 2025 recruiting class, marking the first composite four-star recruit in this cycle. According to 247Sports, he is ranked as the nation’s No. 146 overall prospect, the No. 17 EDGE, and the No. 12 recruit from Alabama. citeturn0search7
For a closer look at C.J. May’s commitment to Louisville, you can watch the announcement video below:
In a major shakeup to the college football recruiting landscape, a 5-star prospect initially committed to the Alabama Crimson Tide has announced his decision to decommit and flip to the Miami Hurricanes. The highly sought-after player, whose identity has not been disclosed in initial reports, cited a combination of personal connections, program vision, and location as key factors in the dramatic shift.
### **A Recruiting Shockwave**
The player had been a cornerstone of Alabama’s recruiting class, with many analysts projecting him to be a future star for Nick Saban’s powerhouse program. His decision to leave the Crimson Tide’s fold has sent shockwaves through the college football world, as Alabama rarely loses high-profile recruits once they’ve pledged their commitment.
### **Why Miami?**
The recruit reportedly felt a stronger connection with Miami’s coaching staff, led by Mario Cristobal, who has been aggressively rebuilding the Hurricanes’ program. Miami’s recent strides in player development, NIL opportunities, and their push to return to national prominence were major selling points for the player and his family.
According to sources close to the situation, the player’s visit to Miami’s campus sealed the deal. “He was blown away by the facilities and the family atmosphere here,” a Miami insider revealed.
### **Fan Reactions**
Fans of both programs have taken to social media to express their shock and excitement. Alabama supporters are questioning how such a high-profile loss could occur, while Miami fans are celebrating what they see as a huge victory in the recruiting arms race.
### **What’s Next for Alabama?**
This decommitment leaves a significant gap in Alabama’s recruiting class, as the player was expected to fill a critical position of need. The Crimson Tide will now have to pivot quickly to secure other top-tier talent to maintain their spot among the nation’s elite classes.
### **The Recruit’s Perspective**
In his announcement, the player expressed gratitude toward Alabama but said Miami felt like the best fit for his future. “This was one of the hardest decisions I’ve ever made, but I believe in what Miami is building,” he said.
### **Implications for Miami**
This flip is a massive win for the Hurricanes, not only strengthening their roster but also signaling to other elite recruits that Miami is a destination for top talent. The Hurricanes are now poised to climb higher in the national recruiting rankings, adding to the momentum Cristobal has been building since his arrival.
Looking Ahead
With National Signing Day fast approaching, this development raises questions about whether more surprises are in store. Recruiting battles like this demonstrate how volatile the landscape can be, especially with NIL deals and the transfer portal reshaping how commitments are made.
Miami fans will be eagerly awaiting to see how this 5-star talent performs once he dons the orange and green. Meanwhile, Alabama will be looking to regroup and prove why they remain a perennial powerhouse despite the loss.
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