Major Shakeup in College Football Recruiting: Five-Star Twin Defensive Ends Darryll and Mandrell Desir Flip from Florida State to Alabama, Snubbing Penn State, Nebraska, and Other Top Programs; Experts Discuss the Impact Heading into the 2027 Season
In a stunning turn of events, twin defensive ends Darryll and Mandrell Desir have decommitted from Florida State University and signed with the Alabama Crimson Tide, sending shockwaves through the college football recruiting landscape.
The Desir twins, considered among the top defensive line prospects in the 2025 class, had initially committed to Florida State but ultimately chose Alabama over offers from powerhouse programs such as Penn State and Nebraska.
The Desir Twins: Elite Defensive Line Prospects
Hailing from Fort Lauderdale, Florida, Darryll and Mandrell Desir are widely regarded as two of the most explosive athletes in the country. Darryll, standing at 6’5″ and weighing 245 pounds, is known for his elite pass-rushing skills, combining explosive speed and power to disrupt opposing quarterbacks consistently.
Mandrell, at 6’6″ and 250 pounds, is a dominant run-stopper with the versatility to shift inside, boasting a relentless work ethic and high football IQ. Both players rank among the top 10 defensive ends nationally and bring a rare combination of talent, athleticism, and chemistry to the field .
Alabama’s Winning Pitch
The Desir twins cited their strong connection with Alabama’s coaching staff as a pivotal factor in their decision. Head coach Nick Saban and defensive coordinator Kevin Steele presented a compelling vision for the twins’ development within the Crimson Tide’s defensive system. “Alabama is building something special, and we wanted to be a part of it,” said Darryll. “The coaching staff made it clear they had a plan for us,” added Mandrell .
Impact on the 2027 Season
Alabama’s acquisition of the Desir twins significantly bolsters their defensive line, providing immediate impact players who can contribute from day one. The twins’ ability to generate pressure off the edge and disrupt opposing offenses will be invaluable as Alabama continues its pursuit of national championships. Their commitment also solidifies Alabama’s position as a recruiting powerhouse, attracting top-tier talent to Tuscaloosa.
For Florida State, the loss of the Desir twins is a setback, but the program remains committed to building a competitive team. The Seminoles will need to regroup and focus on developing their remaining recruits to maintain their standing in the ACC.
The Desir twins’ decision to flip from Florida State to Alabama marks a significant shift in the college football recruiting landscape. Their commitment to the Crimson Tide enhances Alabama’s defensive line and sets the stage for a promising 2027 season.
As the recruiting cycle continues, programs across the country will be closely monitoring the Desir twins’ development and the impact of their decision on the college football landscape.