SHOCKWAVE IN RECRUITING: Four-Star QB Aidan Chiles Decommits from Michigan, Flips to Ohio State over Notre Dame and Penn State

SHOCKWAVE IN RECRUITING: Four-Star QB Aidan Chiles Decommits from Michigan, Flips to Ohio State over Notre Dame and Penn State

In a dramatic turn that has sent ripples across the college football recruiting world, four-star quarterback Aidan Chiles has decommitted from the University of Michigan and officially flipped his commitment to Ohio State, choosing the Buckeyes over fellow national powerhouses Notre Dame and Penn State.

Chiles, a 6-foot-4, 200-pound quarterback from Downey, California, had been verbally committed to Michigan since early last year and was widely expected to be the Wolverines’ next great quarterback. However, speculation around his status began to surface in recent weeks as he took unofficial visits to other programs and delayed his expected signing timeline. On Thursday morning, Chiles made it official with a social media post that read simply: “Next stop: Columbus. Buckeye Nation, I’m home.”

This flip is a massive recruiting win for Ryan Day and the Buckeyes, who have now secured one of the most promising quarterbacks in the 2025 class. Chiles is ranked as the No. 5 quarterback nationally and a top-50 overall prospect, known for his strong arm, pocket awareness, and ability to make plays on the run. Scouts have drawn comparisons to a young Justin Fields, with his blend of physical tools and football IQ.

Chiles’ decision didn’t come lightly. Sources close to his recruitment say that while he remained loyal to Michigan throughout most of the process, he became increasingly drawn to Ohio State’s quarterback development pipeline. The success of recent Buckeye quarterbacks in the NFL—such as C.J. Stroud—played a key role, as did the opportunity to compete for a national title in Columbus.

“I’ve got nothing but love for Michigan and everything they’ve done for me throughout this journey,” Chiles said in a statement. “But at the end of the day, I had to do what was best for my future. Ohio State gives me the best chance to grow as a player, win big games, and reach the next level.”

Notre Dame and Penn State had made aggressive late pushes, with both programs pitching early playing time and strong NIL opportunities. However, Ohio State’s consistency on the national stage and its elite wide receiver corps were reportedly the final tipping points.

Chiles’ commitment gives Ohio State an immediate boost in the 2025 class, which is shaping up to be one of the best in the country. With top-tier talent already committed across the offensive line and wide receiver groups, adding Chiles potentially secures the Buckeyes’ future under center for years to come.

As for Michigan, the loss is significant. Chiles was expected to be the quarterback of the future in Ann Arbor, and his departure leaves a gap that will need to be addressed quickly, either through a new commitment or via the transfer portal.

The Chiles flip also reignites the fierce rivalry between Michigan and Ohio State—this time, on the recruiting trail. And as the Buckeyes celebrate this major coup, the message is loud and clear: Columbus remains one of the top destinations for elite quarterbacks looking to make their mark.