Twin Brothers Mandrell and Darryll Desir Commit to Ohio State, Flip to Alabama as Defensive Ends for the 2025 Season
February 12, 2025
In a stunning turn of events that has sent shockwaves throughout the college football world, twin brothers Mandrell and Darryll Desir, highly coveted defensive ends from Florida, initially committed to Ohio State but ultimately signed with Alabama for the 2025 season. The dramatic flip has fueled debates about recruiting battles, NIL influence, and the future of college football powerhouses.
The Journey to Stardom
Mandrell and Darryll Desir, the 6-foot-5, 265-pound defensive standouts from Miami Central High School, had long been on the radar of top programs across the country. Ranked as five-star recruits and considered two of the most dominant pass rushers in the 2025 class, the twin brothers displayed a rare combination of speed, power, and technical prowess that made them must-have prospects for elite programs.
Throughout their high school careers, the Desir twins terrorized opposing quarterbacks, combining for over 45 sacks in their senior season and leading Miami Central to a state championship. Their performances earned them invitations to the prestigious All-American Bowl, where they showcased their elite skills against the nation’s top talent.
“These two guys are special,” said Miami Central head coach Robert Simmons. “They have that rare ability to change a game with a single play. One moment, you’re moving the ball, and the next, one of them has wrecked the play in the backfield. They are relentless competitors with an incredible work ethic.”
The Ohio State Commitment
Ohio State, known for its strong defensive line development under head coach Ryan Day and defensive coordinator Larry Johnson, had prioritized the Desir twins early in the recruiting process. The Buckeyes hosted them for multiple visits, with both players praising the program’s culture, development track record, and championship aspirations.
On December 15, 2024, during a nationally televised ceremony, the twins committed to Ohio State, donning Buckeye hats in front of a packed gymnasium at Miami Central. The decision was seen as a massive win for Ohio State, which had beaten out Alabama, Georgia, and Florida State in the recruiting battle.
“We feel like Ohio State is the best place for us,” Mandrell said at the time. “Coach Day, Coach Johnson, and the entire staff have shown us love from the beginning. We believe in their vision and what they can do for our future.”
Darryll echoed the sentiment, adding, “Ohio State felt like home. We love the energy in Columbus, and we’re ready to bring national championships to the Buckeye Nation.”
The Shocking Flip to Alabama
However, in a move that no one saw coming, just weeks later on National Signing Day, the twins stunned the college football world by flipping their commitment to Alabama and signing with the Crimson Tide. The announcement came via a social media post featuring the twins holding Alabama jerseys with head coach Kalen DeBoer by their side.
The decision sent shockwaves through Buckeye Nation, with Ohio State fans expressing disbelief and frustration over the late switch. Reports soon emerged that Alabama had continued its aggressive pursuit of the Desir twins, making a compelling case for their future in Tuscaloosa.
According to sources close to the recruitment, Alabama’s player development, championship pedigree, and NIL opportunities played a crucial role in swaying the twins.
Why Alabama?
Several factors contributed to the Desir twins’ change of heart:
1. Defensive Line Development – Alabama’s track record of producing elite defensive linemen who transition to the NFL is second to none. With stars like Will Anderson Jr., Quinnen Williams, and Jonathan Allen coming through the program, the Crimson Tide provided a clear path to professional success.
2. Kalen DeBoer’s Vision – Despite taking over from legendary coach Nick Saban, DeBoer has wasted no time in proving he can maintain Alabama’s dominance. His staff made an all-out push to convince the twins that Tuscaloosa was the best place for them.
3. NIL Influence – While neither Mandrell nor Darryll has directly spoken about NIL deals, reports suggest that Alabama’s well-structured NIL program played a role in their decision. Industry insiders speculate that lucrative opportunities contributed to their choice.
4. Family Ties in Alabama – It was later revealed that the twins had extended family in Alabama, a connection they had downplayed during their initial recruitment.
Reaction from Ohio State
Ohio State fans and analysts were blindsided by the news, with some questioning what went wrong in the Buckeyes’ recruitment process. Head coach Ryan Day addressed the situation in a press conference, expressing disappointment but acknowledging the realities of modern college football.
“We wish Mandrell and Darryll nothing but success in their careers,” Day said. “Recruiting is always competitive, and while we’re disappointed, we’re focused on the players who signed with us and are excited about what they bring to the program.”
Defensive coordinator Larry Johnson, who had developed a strong relationship with the twins, reportedly made a last-minute push to keep them in Columbus but ultimately respected their decision.
Impact on Alabama’s 2025 Class
The Desir twins’ commitment gave Alabama a major boost in the 2025 recruiting rankings, pushing them past Georgia for the No. 1 class in the nation. Their addition strengthens an already loaded defensive line group that includes fellow five-star recruits and adds immediate depth to a position of need.
Alabama defensive line coach Freddie Roach praised the twins’ potential, calling them “game-changers” who can make an immediate impact.
“These guys are as good as advertised,” Roach said. “They have the size, speed, and drive to be dominant players at this level. We can’t wait to get them to Tuscaloosa and start working with them.”
The Future of the Desir Twins
With their commitment saga finally settled, Mandrell and Darryll Desir now turn their focus to their college careers. The brothers are expected to compete for early playing time, with many analysts predicting that at least one of them could see the field as a freshman.
Their development under Alabama’s system will be closely watched, especially as Ohio State fans continue to lament their departure.
A Recruiting Shockwave
The Desir twins’ flip is yet another reminder of how volatile modern recruiting has become. With NIL deals, transfer portal considerations, and evolving coaching strategies, commitments are never truly final until the ink dries on National Signing Day.
For Ohio State, the loss stings, but the Buckeyes will regroup and continue to compete for top talent. For Alabama, the addition of the Desir twins solidifies their hold as a recruiting powerhouse and sets the stage for another dominant defensive era.
Regardless of which team they ultimately chose, Mandrell and Darryll Desir’s journey has already become one of the most talked-about recruiting stories in recent history. Now, all eyes will be on them as they take the field for Alabama and look to leave their mark on college football.
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