Top quarterback recruit Jared Curtis is rumored to be contemplating a switch in his commitment from Georgia to Vanderbilt, intensifying interest in his recruitment. Recently, Vanderbilt Coach Clark Lea received a contract extension, bringing renewed hope for the Commodores’ chances at landing the talented player.
The speculation surrounding Curtis, a senior quarterback from Nashville Christian, escalated following his visit to a Vanderbilt practice on October 22 and subsequent attendance at the Commodores’ home game against Missouri. Though reports have circulated about a potential flip to Vanderbilt, a source close to the situation has indicated that this narrative may be exaggerated, as the Vanderbilt staff has not yet engaged with Curtis’ parents.
Despite the source’s comments, multiple recruiting analysts are predicting that Curtis could indeed commit to Vanderbilt. Rivals recruiting reporter Steve Wiltfong and 247Sports reporter Tom Loy have both hinted at a strong likelihood that Curtis will change his allegiance from Georgia. Should Curtis join the Commodores, he would become their highest-rated recruit in history, as he is currently ranked as the number one quarterback nationally and the fourth overall player in the 2026 class by the 247Sports Composite.
Curtis is slated to sign with his chosen school on December 5, ahead of the early signing period, which begins on December 3. His performance during the 2024 season has been remarkable, accumulating 3,467 yards, 58 touchdowns, and only three interceptions. His exceptional skills earned him the Division II-A Mr. Football award and the Gatorade Tennessee Player of the Year distinction.
The recent extension of Coach Clark Lea’s contract may play an essential role in Curtis’s decision-making process. As interest in new head coaches across college football heightens, Lea’s stability at Vanderbilt could reassure recruits, dispelling concerns regarding future coaching changes. The terms of Lea’s six-year extension include promises for facility upgrades, further bolstering the program’s appeal.
The pursuit of Curtis by Vanderbilt has been ongoing since late October, with significant moments leading up to the Commodores’ matchup against Missouri. His attendance at the practice was part of a professional shadowing initiative facilitated by his school. The situation garnered media attention, including remarks from Nashville comedian Nate Bargatze during an ESPN segment, who playfully encouraged Curtis to consider Vanderbilt.
Adding to the recruitment efforts, Vanderbilt quarterback Diego Pavia has made connections with Curtis during recent Nashville Christian games, expressing confidence in Curtis’s potential and likening him to NFL star Patrick Mahomes.
As Jared Curtis evaluates his options leading up to signing day, the situation remains dynamic, with Vanderbilt’s targeted efforts making headlines and energizing fans. The unfolding narrative could significantly impact the future trajectory of the Vanderbilt football program.