Done Deal: 4-Star Defensive Tackle JaMarkus Pittman Commits to Lane Kiffin, Ole Miss Football Over Alabama and Others….
Lane Kiffin and the Ole Miss Rebels scored a massive recruiting victory with the commitment of four-star defensive tackle JaMarkus Pittman, who announced his decision to join the Rebels over several powerhouse programs, including Alabama, LSU, and Georgia.
Pittman, a 6-foot-4, 305-pound lineman out of Forest Park High School in Georgia, has long been on the radar of top programs across the SEC. Known for his explosive first step, stout run defense, and relentless motor, Pittman brings the kind of interior presence that can immediately impact the trenches at the collegiate level. Rated as the No. 12 defensive tackle in the 2025 class by 247Sports Composite and a top-150 overall prospect, his commitment signals a continued upward trajectory for Kiffin’s recruiting efforts.
“This was a decision that came down to relationships and development,” Pittman said during his announcement. “Coach Kiffin and Coach Golding made me feel like a priority from day one. I believe in what they’re building at Ole Miss, and I want to be a part of it.”
Pittman had been heavily courted by Alabama, where defensive line coach Freddie Roach led the charge, as well as LSU and Georgia, who were each hoping to add another high-caliber lineman to their already-stacked defensive fronts. But in the end, the Rebels’ consistent communication, the potential for early playing time, and a scheme that suits Pittman’s aggressive style swayed the four-star defender to Oxford.
Lane Kiffin’s ability to recruit high-level defensive talent has been a major storyline in recent cycles, and Pittman’s commitment adds to an already impressive 2025 class. With Pittman on board, Ole Miss now holds one of the top defensive hauls in the SEC, and more importantly, they’ve scored a symbolic win by beating out Alabama and Georgia — two perennial playoff contenders — for a top-tier recruit in the trenches.
“He’s a game-changer,” said an Ole Miss staffer, speaking on background. “JaMarkus has the physicality and technique to be dominant against the run, but he also has the twitch and power to disrupt passing lanes. He’s the kind of player who can set the tone for an entire defense.”
Pittman’s commitment also underscores the shift in perception of Ole Miss as a true SEC recruiting force. While Kiffin’s high-powered offenses have drawn headlines in the past, his program’s growing defensive credibility could make the Rebels a complete team moving forward.
As for what comes next, Pittman says he’s ready to shut down his recruitment and focus on his senior season.
“I’m 100% locked in with Ole Miss,” he said. “I’m ready to bring a championship to Oxford.”
With this latest addition, the Rebels continue to build momentum on and off the field. Pittman is not just another blue-chip recruit — he’s a statement. A statement that Lane Kiffin isn’t just aiming to compete in the SEC. He’s aiming to win it.
