4-Star TE Mack Sutter Announces Finalists, Commitment Date Ahead of Alabama Official Visit…

4-Star TE Mack Sutter Announces Finalists, Commitment Date Ahead of Alabama Official Visit…

One of the most sought-after tight ends in the 2026 recruiting class, Mack Sutter, has taken a major step toward making his college decision. The four-star prospect from Dunlap, Illinois, has officially narrowed down his list of finalists to five schools: Alabama, Illinois, Ohio State, Ole Miss, and Penn State. He also confirmed that he will make his college commitment on June 26, 2025.

Before announcing his decision, Sutter is set to take one final official visit — to the University of Alabama — from June 20 to June 22. The Crimson Tide, who extended an offer during an April 2024 visit, have been increasingly active in Sutter’s recruitment, with tight ends coach Bryan Ellis leading the charge.

At 6-foot-6 and 225 pounds, Sutter is a dynamic and versatile athlete who has played tight end, wide receiver, quarterback, and linebacker at the high school level. His junior season statistics speak to his impact on the field: 35 receptions, 505 receiving yards, and seven touchdowns. His size, catch radius, and agility make him a dangerous red-zone weapon and a matchup nightmare for opposing defenses.

Sutter has taken a strategic and measured approach throughout his recruitment, scheduling official visits with all five of his top programs this spring. He visited Illinois on April 11, followed by trips to Ole Miss (April 25), Ohio State (May 30), and Penn State (June 6). The visit to Alabama will be his final stop before he makes his announcement.

Each program brings something unique to the table. Illinois offers the home-state advantage and a chance to be a hometown hero. Ohio State provides a long-standing reputation for producing NFL talent and a national championship pedigree. Ole Miss has impressed with its family-oriented culture and the opportunity to be a focal point in a creative offense. Penn State, known for its tight end development pipeline, is appealing from a positional standpoint. Alabama, however, might present the most complete package: national exposure, player development, and consistent competition at the highest level of college football.

“Every school has something special,” Sutter recently said in an interview. “I’ve had great visits, and I’ve learned a lot about what each place can offer me both on and off the field. I just want to make sure I’m making the best decision for my future.”

Recruiting analysts consider Sutter’s decision a pivotal one, as he is not only one of the top tight ends in the country but also a player who could contribute early at the next level. Ranked as a top-10 tight end nationally and among the top overall prospects in Illinois, Sutter’s commitment will be closely watched by fans and coaching staffs alike.

With the recruiting landscape intensifying as summer approaches, Sutter’s June 26 decision is sure to make waves. His final visit to Alabama could be a major factor in shaping that outcome, and all five programs are making their final push in what has become one of the most competitive recruitment battles of the 2026 class.