**Top Recruits DJ Pickett and Harlem Berry Announce Departures**
In a stunning development, two of the highest-rated signees in the 2025 recruiting class, DJ Pickett and Harlem Berry, have officially announced their departures from their respective commitments. The news sent shockwaves through the college football world, as both players were expected to be cornerstones of their respective programs.
### **DJ Pickett: A Five-Star Talent Exploring New Options**
DJ Pickett, a five-star defensive back and one of the most sought-after recruits in the country, had been a prized commitment. Known for his elite combination of size, speed, and football IQ, Pickett had been projected as an immediate impact player at the collegiate level. His ability to lock down receivers and play both cornerback and safety made him a versatile weapon in any defensive scheme.
Pickett’s decision to decommit comes as a major surprise, considering he had been vocal about his excitement for his initial choice. However, recent reports suggest that other powerhouse programs have continued to push hard for his services, making his recruitment an ongoing battle. NIL opportunities, coaching changes, and the evolving landscape of college football may have played significant roles in his decision.
Now back on the market, Pickett will be one of the most sought-after players in the 2025 class once again. Programs like Alabama, Georgia, Florida State, and Michigan, which were heavily involved in his recruitment before his initial commitment, are expected to make a renewed push for the elite defensive back.
### **Harlem Berry: A Dynamic Playmaker Looking for a New Home**
Harlem Berry, widely regarded as the top running back in the 2025 class, also made headlines with his decommitment. Berry is known for his electric playmaking ability, combining elite speed, agility, and vision to dominate on the field. His departure is a major blow to the program he was originally set to join, as he was expected to be a game-changer in their offensive scheme.
Berry’s decision to reopen his recruitment signals a shift in his priorities, and like Pickett, he will be one of the most highly pursued players in the country. His ability to impact a game in multiple ways—whether as a rusher, receiver out of the backfield, or return specialist—makes him a coveted asset for any offense.
Programs that were previously in contention for Berry, such as LSU, Texas, and Ohio State, are likely to be heavily involved in his recruitment once again. Given the current state of college football, where NIL deals and program stability weigh heavily in a player’s decision, Berry’s next destination will be closely monitored.
### **The Fallout and What Comes Next**
The departures of Pickett and Berry highlight the ever-changing nature of college football recruiting. With NIL deals, transfer portal opportunities, and coaching shifts influencing players more than ever, commitments are increasingly fluid.
For the schools that originally landed these elite recruits, the focus now shifts to damage control and finding replacements. Meanwhile, Pickett and Berry will take their time evaluating their next steps, knowing they hold the power as two of the top prospects in the nation.
As the recruiting cycle continues, the decisions of these two elite athletes will be among the most watched storylines in college football.
