BREAKING NEWS: Garrett Gilbert Shocks Washington Commanders with Decommitment, Flips Commitment to Oklahoma Sooners Over Nebraska, Penn State, and Others
In a stunning development, highly sought-after quarterback Garrett Gilbert has decommitted from the Washington Commanders, shaking up the college football recruiting landscape. Gilbert, who had previously committed to Washington, has announced that he will be flipping his commitment to the Oklahoma Sooners, despite heavy interest from several other prestigious programs, including Nebraska, Penn State, and others.
The decision to switch allegiances has sent shockwaves through the college football world, especially given that Gilbert was considered one of the top quarterback prospects of the 2024 recruiting class. His decommitment comes just days after several high-profile visits and discussions with key staff members from Oklahoma and other top programs, making it clear that Gilbert was reconsidering his options.
The Rise of Garrett Gilbert
Garrett Gilbert, a 6-foot-5 dual-threat quarterback from Texas, had been highly recruited throughout his high school career. He gained recognition for his dynamic playmaking ability, impressive arm strength, and his natural leadership on the field. Gilbert was widely regarded as one of the top quarterbacks in the nation, and his commitment to Washington had been a big win for the Commanders. However, recent changes in the recruiting process and discussions with other programs led Gilbert to reevaluate his initial decision.
Oklahoma’s Appeal
Oklahoma has been a perennial powerhouse in college football, known for its high-powered offense and the development of elite quarterbacks. The Sooners have produced several Heisman Trophy-winning quarterbacks, including Kyler Murray and Baker Mayfield, and the program’s rich history of success under head coach Brent Venables undoubtedly played a significant role in Gilbert’s decision to switch his commitment.
What made Oklahoma an even more attractive destination for Gilbert was the opportunity to work with the team’s offensive staff, which has consistently produced NFL-ready quarterbacks. Sources close to Gilbert suggest that his decision was influenced by Oklahoma’s commitment to developing quarterbacks in an up-tempo, pass-heavy offense that fits his skill set perfectly.
Strong Competition
Despite the allure of Oklahoma, Gilbert’s decommitment from Washington didn’t come without intense competition from other programs. Nebraska, under head coach Matt Rhule, had aggressively pursued the talented quarterback, and Penn State had also made a strong push, hoping to secure Gilbert’s commitment to bolster their offense. Both schools were considered serious contenders in the recruitment process, but ultimately, the allure of Oklahoma proved to be too strong.
Nebraska’s recent resurgence under Rhule, along with Penn State’s consistent success in the Big Ten, made them worthy competitors. However, sources indicate that Gilbert’s relationship with the Oklahoma coaching staff, combined with their offensive philosophy, was the decisive factor in his decision.
The Impact on Washington
Washington’s coaching staff, particularly head coach Kalen DeBoer, had worked diligently to secure Gilbert’s commitment. The decommitment is a significant blow to the Commanders, as they now must regroup and search for another quarterback to fill their future needs. Gilbert was seen as a potential cornerstone for Washington’s offense, and losing him is a major setback for the program.
The Commanders will likely turn their attention to other top-tier quarterbacks in the 2024 class, but replacing a talent like Gilbert will be no easy task. As a result, Washington’s recruitment efforts for the upcoming season will now take on an even more urgent tone.
Looking Ahead
For Garrett Gilbert, the next chapter of his football journey will unfold at the University of Oklahoma, where he will have the opportunity to develop under one of the most respected coaching staffs in college football. His decision to flip from Washington to the Sooners marks a pivotal moment in his career and sets the stage for what promises to be an exciting future in college football.
As the 2024 recruiting cycle continues to unfold, all eyes will be on Gilbert as he prepares for the next step in his football career.