When you’re built like a mountain at 6-foot-8, 300 pounds, it’s easy to see why people might think football is your destiny. But for Jackson Cantwell, the No.1 offensive tackle everywhere in the elite 2026 football recruiting class, life isn’t just about pancaking defenders—it’s also about throwing heavy objects across a field with jaw-dropping precision. This Missouri prodigy is rewriting what it means to be a multi-sport athlete, all while offering sage advice beyond his years.

In a quick on-field interview with CMG Sports, Jackson Cantwell gave fans a glimpse into his mindset. Speaking with the poise of someone far older than his 16 years, he shared, “Right now, my focus is on getting this team to playing in December.” For Cantwell, the goal is clear: lead the Nixa Eagles team to postseason glory before pivoting to a highly anticipated track season. His high school team is 12-0 overall. Fresh off a national title in the shot put at June’s Nike Outdoor Nationals—and with a Missouri state record under his belt—it’s no surprise he’s doubling down on his dual-sport ambitions.

The big OT’s dominance on the football field is matched only by his wisdom off it. Although he has offers from 31+ college programs, you name it, and Jackson Cantwell might have an offer from that school. He hasn’t committed yet. Asked how younger athletes should approach the recruiting process, he kept it real. “Live a normal teenage life and not focus so much on your future,” he said, emphasizing the importance of enjoying the ride. For a player under the relentless spotlight of recruiters, his perspective is refreshing. Rather than being consumed by the pressures of five-star status, he takes pride in learning from mentors and savoring the journey.

And then there’s track and field. For Cantwell, the shot put isn’t just a side hustle—it’s a passion that’s already produced record-breaking results. When asked about balancing the two sports, he said, “I’m staying with the dual-sport athlete thing as long as I can. I think that’s always something I’m gonna do.” That duality isn’t just a gimmick; it’s part of his identity. His ability to dominate in two demanding sports speaks to his discipline, athleticism, and pure love for competition. Say he likes competition; what do you say should he be the savior of a defensively struggling USC? Or go to some top program that secures his future.

Where would you like to go, Jackson Cantwell?

The top offensive lineman in the 2026 class is already making waves with his college decision process. The Nixa phenom once announced his shortlist of colleges. After fielding more than two dozen offers from top programs across the country, Cantwell has narrowed his focus to five, fitting for a five-star: LSU, Michigan, Ohio State, Nebraska, and Florida.

With his towering presence and elite skills on the field, Cantwell has been one of the most sought-after players in high school football. He’s the son of Olympians Christian and Teri (Steer) Cantwell—his dad, a Mizzou alum and five-time world champion, took silver in shot put at the 2008 Beijing Games, while his mom is an SMU Hall of Famer. With such athletic roots and strong ties to these schools, his family legacy could play a key role in shaping his future decision at some point.

Looking ahead, Cantwell’s ceiling seems limitless. As his own words sum it up perfectly, “I’m excited for this year because I think there’s some great stuff that I have the potential to do this year.”