The Ole Miss Rebels have landed a significant win on the recruiting trail, flipping 2025 offensive tackle Connor Howes from the Arkansas Razorbacks. The announcement came Thursday, adding another notable piece to Ole Miss’ already impressive recruiting class. This flip represents not just a victory for Ole Miss but a blow to an SEC rival, underscoring the competitive nature of recruiting in the conference.
The Details of the Flip
Connor Howes, a towering offensive tackle standing over 6’5” and weighing 295 pounds, hails from Osceola High School in Florida. Initially committed to Arkansas on June 14, Howes’ recruitment took a dramatic turn during a recent visit to Ole Miss for the Egg Bowl. Following that visit, Howes officially announced his decision to decommit from the Razorbacks and join the Rebels.
“I went up there with the intent to ask some questions, and they all got answered along with a bunch more information that helps in making the decision,” Howes told On3. He also spoke highly of Ole Miss offensive line coach John Garrison, who played a crucial role in this flip. “Coach Garrison has always been there for me since day one. Even after I committed [to Arkansas], he still made sure to reach out and wish me luck before my games.”
Ole Miss celebrated Howes’ addition with a social media post welcoming him to the early signing class. His commitment was featured in a graphic alongside other signees, signaling his inclusion in a growing and promising group of future Rebels.
Why Howes Matters
While most recruiting outlets rate Howes as a three-star prospect, On3 has elevated him to four-star status, recognizing his potential and skill set. Howes’ size and athleticism make him a versatile and valuable addition to Ole Miss’ offensive line, a unit critical to the success of any SEC program.
Howes is expected to bring a physical, dominant presence to the Rebels’ offensive front. His high school tape showcases strong footwork, impressive hand placement, and the ability to dominate defenders at the point of attack. Though there’s always room for development at the collegiate level, Howes’ foundation suggests he could grow into an anchor on the Rebels’ offensive line.
The Role of John Garrison
Coach John Garrison’s influence cannot be overstated in this recruitment. Garrison, known for his ability to build strong relationships with recruits, maintained contact with Howes even after his initial commitment to Arkansas. This persistence and connection ultimately paid off, as Howes credited Garrison’s unwavering support as a key factor in his decision to flip.
This move underscores Garrison’s impact as a recruiter and his ability to attract top talent to Oxford. With the offensive line being a priority for Ole Miss, landing a player of Howes’ caliber is a testament to Garrison’s strategic approach and the program’s broader recruiting momentum.
Broader Implications for Ole Miss
Howes’ commitment marks the 23rd addition to Ole Miss’ 2025 recruiting class, which continues to rise in national rankings. The Rebels’ success in securing commitments like Howes demonstrates the program’s growing appeal under head coach Lane Kiffin and his staff.
The flip also highlights Ole Miss’ ability to compete with and outmaneuver other SEC programs in the recruiting landscape. Stealing a commitment from Arkansas not only strengthens Ole Miss but weakens a direct competitor, a critical aspect of recruiting in the nation’s toughest conference.
What’s Next for Howes and Ole Miss
Howes’ recruitment journey may not be entirely over, as signing day remains months away. However, Ole Miss appears to have a strong hold on his commitment, thanks to the combination of Garrison’s relationship-building and the Rebels’ overall appeal.
Moving forward, Howes will look to refine his game and prepare for the jump to SEC football. With his physical attributes and potential, he has the tools to make an impact early in his collegiate career.
For Ole Miss, the addition of Howes is part of a broader strategy to bolster the offensive line, a unit that will be critical to sustaining success in the SEC. The Rebels’ 2025 recruiting class is shaping up to be one of the strongest in recent memory, with Howes playing a key role in that development.
Final Thoughts
The flip of Connor Howes from Arkansas to Ole Miss represents a significant recruiting win for the Rebels. It highlights the program’s ability to attract and secure top talent, even against strong competition. For Howes, the move to Ole Miss offers an opportunity to develop his skills under a proven coaching staff in one of college football’s most competitive environments.
As the 2025 class continues to take shape, Ole Miss fans have plenty to be excited about. Howes’ commitment is a clear signal that the Rebels are not only building for the future but also positioning themselves as a force to be reckoned with in the SEC. Stay tuned for more updates as Ole Miss continues to build momentum on the recruiting trail.
