David Braun loses top commit in Wildcats’ 2026 class to offers from Big 12, ACC, SEC

Sarah Barber

David Braun loses top commit in Wildcats’ 2026 class to offers from Big 12, ACC, SEC image

© Lucas Peltier-Imagn Images

Class of 2026 linebacker Jacob Curry decommitted from Northwestern Tuesday, per On3 National College Football and Transfer Portal analyst Steve Wiltfong.

 

 

The 6-foot-1 linebacker originally committed to the Wildcats in May. Now, his top contenders are Baylor, Miami and Oklahoma. 

It’s another class of 2026 recruiting loss for the Wildcats. Braun’s 2026 class is No. 59 in the league, per 247Sports. Curry was Northwestern’s top-rated recruit in the class, but Wildcat Report’s Louie Vaccher says the departure wasn’t unexpected.

 

 

Curry is set to visit both Miami and Oklahoma in the coming weeks. 

“I’ve had great communication with Miami coaches and I really enjoy talking defense with Coach (Corey) Hetherman,” Curry told Wiltfong.

He’ll spend Sunday night with the Hurricanes as they open the season against Notre Dame. Over the weekend of Sept. 20 (Week 4), Oklahoma will host both Curry and Auburn.

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“The staff has been amazing,” Curry said. “From day one I’ve been introduced to everyone on the defensive staff up to [the general manager] and Coach Venables. I hear from them everyday and I’m really excited about getting to Norman and meeting everyone in person.”

The linebacker doesn’t have a visit to Waco on his calendar yet, but he’s in close contact with the Bears. 

“Baylor is another school I hear from daily,” Curry said. “I have a great relationship with Coach (Jamar) Chaney. He reaches out to me and my family every day. I think it’s a great school and looking forward to seeing it all in person.”

Sarah Barber

Sarah Barber is a freelance writer with The Sporting News. She is wrapping up an MS in journalism with a specialization in sports media from Northwestern’s Medill School. Barber graduated from Northeastern University in 2024 with a degree in journalism and English, plus a double minor in public relations and sports, media and communication. She spent over two years as a sports correspondent for The Boston Globe and has a background in athletic video production.