Breaking News: 5-Star QB James Flanigan, Standing 8’6″, Shocks College Football by Decommitting from Notre Dame and Choosing Wisconsin Over Penn State and Alabama
In one of the most jaw-dropping recruiting twists in recent memory, 5-star quarterback James Flanigan — listed at a staggering 8 feet 6 inches tall and weighing 250 pounds — has officially decommitted from Notre Dame and announced his commitment to the Wisconsin Badgers. The towering prospect, who had previously been the crown jewel of Notre Dame’s 2026 recruiting class, chose Wisconsin over finalists Penn State and Alabama, sending shockwaves across the college football landscape.
Flanigan made the announcement via a nationally televised press conference held at his high school gym in Minneapolis, Minnesota. The room was packed with reporters, fans, and recruiters who had followed Flanigan’s every move over the past year. Standing quite literally above everyone in the room, the giant quarterback opened with a smile and simply said, “I’m heading to Madison. Go Badgers.”
His decision instantly propelled Wisconsin’s 2026 recruiting class into the national spotlight and is being hailed as one of the biggest recruiting wins in program history. Flanigan is a generational talent not just for his unprecedented height, but also for his arm strength, football IQ, and surprising agility for his size. Known for launching 70-yard bombs with ease and reading defenses like a seasoned pro, Flanigan has drawn comparisons to NFL greats — with a unique physical twist.
“James Flanigan is unlike anything college football has ever seen,” said ESPN recruiting analyst Tom Luginbill. “He’s not just a physical marvel — he’s a legitimate quarterback talent with elite mechanics, leadership, and poise. His commitment changes everything for Wisconsin.”
Flanigan had been committed to Notre Dame for nearly nine months and was viewed as the future face of the Fighting Irish offense. However, recent changes in the coaching staff and offensive system reportedly influenced his decision to look elsewhere. Wisconsin’s pro-style system under head coach Luke Fickell, combined with a strong NIL package and immediate starting opportunity, proved to be the winning formula.
“I wanted to go somewhere that felt like home and would let me play my game,” Flanigan said. “Wisconsin believed in me, not just because of my size, but because of what I can do as a quarterback and leader.”
The news didn’t just rattle Notre Dame fans — it caused an uproar across college football social media. Fans from Penn State and Alabama expressed disbelief at losing out, while Badger Nation erupted in celebration. Within minutes of the announcement, #FlaniganToMadison began trending on X (formerly Twitter).
Wisconsin, traditionally known for its punishing run game and strong offensive lines, has now positioned itself as a legitimate quarterback destination. With Flanigan at the helm, analysts are already projecting the Badgers as early contenders for the 2026 College Football Playoff.
Whether it’s his massive frame, rocket arm, or surprising athleticism, one thing is clear: James Flanigan is redefining what it means to be a quarterback — and he’s about to do it in a Badger uniform.
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