Boom! Ole Miss flips four-star linebacker Tyler Lockhart from Mississippi State…
In a stunning turn of events, the Ole Miss Rebels have successfully flipped four-star linebacker Tyler Lockhart from their in-state rivals, the Mississippi State Bulldogs. Lockhart, a highly sought-after prospect, had originally committed to Mississippi State but recently made the decision to join Lane Kiffin’s program in Oxford, much to the surprise of many. The switch marks a significant victory for Ole Miss in what has been an intense recruiting battle for one of the top linebackers in the nation.
Lockhart, a product of Jackson Academy in Jackson, Mississippi, has been regarded as one of the most dynamic linebackers in the 2025 class. His combination of size, athleticism, and football IQ makes him a standout on the field. Standing at 6 feet 2 inches tall and weighing around 220 pounds, Lockhart possesses the physical tools that college programs covet, and he has proven his ability to make an impact at multiple levels of defense. His versatility allows him to play both inside and outside linebacker, making him an ideal fit for a variety of defensive schemes.
The decision to flip from Mississippi State to Ole Miss is a massive win for Kiffin and his staff, especially considering the rivalry between the two schools. Mississippi State had been a strong contender for Lockhart’s services for quite some time, and many expected him to stay committed to the Bulldogs. However, Ole Miss has long had a reputation for cultivating talent and offering an exciting and high-powered offense under Kiffin’s leadership, and these factors may have been influential in Lockhart’s final choice.
In addition to his physical attributes, Lockhart is known for his work ethic and leadership qualities. His high school coach at Jackson Academy, who has praised Lockhart’s drive and maturity, believes that he has the potential to excel at the next level and contribute immediately. The linebacker is also highly intelligent on the field, reading plays and reacting quickly to offensive schemes. These qualities will make him an asset to the Ole Miss defense as they look to bolster their linebacker corps in the coming years.
Lockhart’s flip is not only a blow to Mississippi State but also a statement of intent for Ole Miss, who continues to make waves in the recruiting world. As Ole Miss has risen in prominence under Kiffin, the program has been able to secure commitments from top-tier talent, and the addition of Lockhart only strengthens their position moving forward. With this recruiting victory, Ole Miss is positioning itself to remain competitive in the SEC, a conference known for its physical and demanding brand of football.
For Mississippi State, this flip serves as a reminder of the challenges in securing top in-state talent, especially with the rising power of Ole Miss. The Bulldogs will undoubtedly look to rebound and focus on securing commitments from other elite prospects in the 2025 class.
Overall, Lockhart’s commitment to Ole Miss is a significant moment in the world of college football recruiting, highlighting the fierce competition between the two Mississippi schools. As signing day approaches, this flip adds another layer of excitement to what promises to be an intense battle for talent in the Magnolia State.
