With Dan Lanning at the helm and Nike’s financial boost, Oregon has established itself as a major force in the recruiting world. For instance, his 2025 class boasts an exceptional 4th rank nationally with 5-star talents like Dakorien Moore and Na’eem Offord. Not just that, the 2026 class is also shaping out the same way, which currently holds a No.3 national ranking. Lanning is also thinking of the future, having landed 2 high-profile commitments for his 2027 class. But now, after an unexpected turn of events, one of these recruits might be on the verge of flipping.

The recruitment of four-star wide receiver Kesean Bowman from Tennessee began well before 2025, after he recorded 1,023 yards and eight touchdowns during the 2024 season. That performance, along with his track record in track and field, earned him some decent offers; however, Oregon came in a little later, in March 2025. Ever since then, the player has been committed to Oregon, having made his decision on July 24th this year. However, things are looking to be changing now.

Recently, Bowman, despite his commitment to Oregon, attended the Texas vs Ohio State game in Columbus, and signaled an intent of keeping his recruiting open for now. “The atmosphere was crazy. Seeing the receivers work up close stood out. It was a short visit, but I liked it. I will definitely take an official visit to Ohio State,” said Bowman, signaling his leaning towards Ohio State. Not just that, the player remarked about keeping an open mind for now.

“I’m committed, but I want to keep building relationships. I am a relationships person, so those are important to me,” said Bowman. This is, however, not the first time Bowman has shown an inclination towards other schools. This summer, he had visited programs like UNC and especially Tennessee.

Apart from an official visit on the cards at Ohio State in September, the player also praised the program’s “player development,” signaling a potential flip on the cards. Right before landing his commitment to Oregon in July, the player had shortlisted some high-profile programs like Tennessee, OSU, and Texas. And it looks like one such program, apart from Ohio State, isn’t backing down yet despite Oregon’s commitment.

Kesean Bowman declares old love for two SEC programs, signaling Oregon flip

Standing at 6’1″ and 175 lbs, Bowman carries an exceptional frame for a wide receiver with the potential to improve with years. His agility, speed, and athleticism are something that stand out to scouts, and his on-field performances speak for themselves. So, it’s not a coincidence then, Bowman is listed as the 34th overall prospect in the 2027 class, with analysts predicting him to develop into a five-star talent in one or two years. That is the reason why Tennessee wants to keep him in-state.

“I’ve been there around 10 times, and they’re still recruiting me just as hard as before I committed. Coach Pope and Coach Heupel are on me every week. Every time I’m there, they show major love, and the relationships with them are really good,” said Bowman about Tennessee. And the Vols, too, are reciprocating the love back as Bowman will visit Knoxville on September 13th. Apart from Vols, another SEC program is also hosting the WR prospect.

Texas is set to host Bowman on November 1st, which will be his first trip back to Austin since his freshman year. The player, too, has praised the program, highlighting how his freshman visit to Austin “blew his mind” and said Texas is the school he “wants to check out.” All in all, it’s hard to say if a potential flip is on the cards or not, but one thing is clear: Kesean Bowman is exploring options, and Oregon needs to have a plan to keep him in Eugene.