In-state program in good position with 5-star WR Caleb Cunningham

An in-state program is trending for Ackerman (Miss.) Choctaw County five-star wide receiver Caleb Cunningham.

Mississippi State leads in the Recruiting Prediction Machine with an 86.3% chance of landing Cunningham, and On3 Director of Recruiting Chad Simmons had encouraging words to say about the Bulldogs’ chances on The Inside Scoop football recruiting show.

“I think if tomorrow was Signing Day, I think he signs with Mississippi State,” Simmons said. “I think he’s hit it off really well with the new staff, not just the head coach Jeff Lebby. Lebby keeping Chad Bumphis was a big thing to keep that connection in the wide receiver room to Caleb Cunningham. He is a family guy, extremely close with his mom. From where he’s at in high school to Starkville, Mississippi is a half-an-hour drive. Easy to get to, family can get there and see him play, he can visit any time he wants to just right up the road.

“. . . There are other programs, I think he’s visiting 10, 11 or 12 probably this spring,” Simmons added. “He may add a few more in the summer, so still a ways to go in this race. He’s in no rush to make a decision. But I think Lebby and that program in Starkville are the ones all the others are chasing right now.

Caleb Cunningham Recruiting Profile

Cunningham is the nation’s No. 13 overall prospect and No. 2 wide receiver in the 2025 cycle according to the On3 Industry Ranking — a weighted average that utilizes all four major recruiting media companies. He is also the top-ranked prospect in Mississippi.

On3 Scouting Summary:

“Bouncy outside receiver with the upside to become a skilled ball-winner. Listed at an unverified 6-foot-3, 185 pounds. Moves well at that size. Shows the ability to come down with catches in contested situations. Naturally coordinated and can locate the football at its highest point. Also shows some ability to make defenders miss after the catch. Doubles as a fantastic high school basketball player who lives above the rim, throwing down dunks with regularity.

“Also posted strong marks in the high jump (6-0 feet) and triple jump (43-4.25 feet) as a freshman. Has considerable natural ability but will need to hone his technical skill at the position over the final few years of high school football. Could stand to be more productive. Plays at a smaller high school and doesn’t face top competition.”