Nation’s No. 1 Five-Star Kesean Bowman Stuns College Football World — Decommits from Oregon, Flips to Wisconsin Badgers at Midnight
In one of the most shocking late-night twists in recent recruiting history, the nation’s No. 1 overall recruit, five-star phenom Kesean Bowman, has officially flipped his commitment from the Oregon Ducks to the Wisconsin Badgers. The decision was announced just after midnight, sending shockwaves through the college football landscape and igniting celebrations across Madison.
Bowman, a generational talent with elite speed, size, and skill, had been firmly committed to Oregon for months. The Ducks had long been considered the frontrunner, with powerhouse programs like Alabama, Georgia, and Ohio State all having fallen short in their pursuit. Yet in dramatic fashion, Bowman decided that Wisconsin a program traditionally known for power football and offensive line dominance — was the true home for his future.
> “At the end of the day, Wisconsin was the only choice that felt like home,” Bowman said in a statement. “It wasn’t about the flash or the hype it was about family, culture, and the chance to build something special. The Badgers gave me that feeling.”
The midnight flip is already being called one of the most impactful recruiting wins in Wisconsin history. For head coach Luke Fickell, who has been steadily reshaping the Badgers into a modern national contender, Bowman’s commitment is nothing short of program-defining.
Bowman’s rare skill set explosive athleticism, natural leadership, and a reputation as a game-changer on both sides of the ball instantly elevates Wisconsin’s 2025 class to elite status. Recruiting experts are already projecting the Badgers to skyrocket into the national top five, cementing Fickell’s vision of transforming Wisconsin from a Big Ten grinder into a perennial playoff threat.
For Oregon, the loss is crushing. The Ducks invested heavily in Bowman’s recruitment and viewed him as the centerpiece of their future offense. His sudden departure leaves major questions about their class and momentum heading into the Big Ten transition.
Meanwhile, Wisconsin fans are rejoicing like never before. Social media exploded overnight with celebrations, as Bowman’s flip marks the type of headline-grabbing move rarely associated with the Badgers’ traditionally blue-collar brand.
Bowman’s words underscore the significance of this decision: “I wanted a place that believed in me as more than just a player. Wisconsin did that. Now it’s time to bring something special to Madison.”
The shockwaves of this commitment will ripple through college football for months to come but for now, the Wisconsin Badgers are the story, and Kesean Bowman has just made them believers on the biggest stage.
