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According to Rivals, three-star running back AJ Sanders III has de-committed from Cal, becoming the sixth player from the class of 2027 to back out of a pledge to the Bears. Sanders, a 6-foot, 205-pounder from C.E. King High School in Houston, Texas, initially committed in April.
He joins four other high school prospects who have de-committed: tight end Rahzario Edwards (now committed to Mississippi), safety Myles Baker (UCLA), offensive tackle Amaziah Siale (LSU), and linebacker Broncs Baker (West Virginia). Additionally, the top-rated junior college prospect, defensive back Alius May, has also de-committed and is now committed to Georgia.
Broncs Baker had committed to Cal when Justin Wilcox was the head coach, while the others committed under current head coach Tosh Lupoi. Despite the attrition, Cal's 2027 recruiting class is still ranked as the 23rd-best nationally and fourth-best in the ACC by the 247Sports Composite, and 25th nationally and fourth in the ACC by the Rivals Industry Composite.
The Bears still hold a commitment from four-star quarterback Dane Weber, though he has been wavering with UCLA making a push. Commitments are non-binding until a player signs, and the earliest a 2027 prospect can sign is December 2, the first day of the early signing period. Cal also retains a commitment from running back Jaxsen Stokes for 2027.
Sanders had offers from LSU, Texas A&M, Alabama, Florida State, Houston, Missouri, and others before choosing Cal. His de-commitment is a blow to a program that has struggled on the ground: this season, Cal ranks 137th out of 138 FBS teams in rushing yards per game (82.8) and its 3.02 yards per carry is better than only three teams nationally.
The Bears are 3-6 heading into Saturday's road game against Virginia (4-5) and have lost three straight by lopsided margins.
Key Analysis
Cal's recent run of de-commitments raises questions about the staff's ability to retain top talent, especially with the early signing period approaching. While the class still ranks highly, the loss of Sanders leaves the Bears thin at running back, and Weber's wavering adds uncertainty. On-field struggles, particularly in the running game, may be impacting recruiting momentum.