5-Star Linebacker Xavier Griffin Decommits USC, Expected Official Visits Texas, Alabama, Ohio State

Five-star linebacker Xavier Griffin has decommitted from USC and reopened his recruitment, considering several top programs including Alabama, Texas, Georgia, Tennessee, Ohio State, Florida State, and Michigan. Griffin, a Gainesville, Georgia native and highly rated prospect, had committed to USC but never fully closed his recruitment, leading to his decision to explore other options. Alabama has aggressively pursued Griffin, securing an official visit and viewing him as a versatile linebacker with potential for early playing time. Texas is also a strong contender, with Griffin planning an official visit and the coaching staff envisioning a dynamic role for him similar to recent successful players. Griffin's visits to Georgia and Tennessee have been positive, with both programs making strong impressions. His reopening of recruitment reflects a broader trend in college football where verbal commitments are less binding, as highlighted by USC's new policy requiring full commitment or release.