Warren Easton offensive lineman Jalen Chapman has officially committed to Ole Miss, marking a significant shift after decommitting from LSU earlier in the week. The announcement was made on Friday, the final day of the early signing period, at a ceremony held at Warren Easton High School.
Chapman's decision to reopen his recruitment came amidst coaching changes at LSU, with Lane Kiffin taking over from Brian Kelly. According to Chapman, the new coaching staff indicated they were “going to go another way,” prompting him to explore other opportunities.
Ole Miss swiftly capitalized on the situation, with coach Pete Golding and offensive line coach John Garrison reaching out to Chapman on Tuesday. Garrison extended an invitation, saying, “We know the unfortunate circumstances (with LSU), but we got a place up here for you, so are you coming to be a Rebel or what.”
Easton coach Jerry Phillips lauded Chapman as a dominant force on the field, describing him as a “mauler” who “plays angry.” He highlighted Chapman's immediate impact upon arriving at Easton, recalling a standout play during his sophomore year where he drove an opponent “15, 20 yards down the field.”
Chapman's aggressive style of play has occasionally drawn penalties, but Phillips emphasized that it's simply a reflection of his passion for the game. The 6-foot-4, 305-pound lineman is expected to bring a physical presence and a winning mentality to the Ole Miss offensive line.
What This Means for Ole Miss
The addition of Jalen Chapman is a significant boost for the Ole Miss football program. His versatility and aggressive playing style make him a valuable asset to their offensive line. He is expected to contribute significantly to the team's success in the coming seasons.
Looking Ahead
- Chapman will join Ole Miss in the fall.
- He is expected to compete for a starting position on the offensive line.
- His performance will be closely watched by coaches and fans alike.