Gibson Flips to Rutgers, Reclassifies to 2026 Class

Running back Aiden Gibson, a highly-rated prospect from Woodruff, South Carolina, has officially committed to the Rutgers football program. Gibson, who had previously been committed to Penn State, announced his decision on Tuesday, stunning many in the recruiting world. He stated that his heart had always been with Rutgers, a sentiment that guided his ultimate choice.

In a surprising move, Gibson has also reclassified from the 2027 recruiting class to the 2026 class. He is expected to arrive in Piscataway next month to begin preseason training with the Scarlet Knights as a true freshman. This commitment represents a significant win for Rutgers, bringing in their highest-rated recruit during Greg Schiano's second tenure as head coach.

The decision followed a period of deep reflection for Gibson, who emphasized the importance of prayer and weighing pros and cons. This commitment highlights Rutgers' successful strategy of leveraging reclassifications to attract top talent. Previously, other recruits like Antwan Raymond and Wydeek Collier have benefited from this approach, bolstering the team's roster.

Gibson's immediate arrival and talent are expected to add significant depth to Rutgers' running back corps. His flip from a rival Big Ten program underscores the program's growing recruiting prowess under Schiano. Rutgers will be looking for Gibson to become the next success story in their effective reclassification strategy.