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2026 Defensive Lineman Carmelow Reed Flips Commitment to Ole Miss

2026 Defensive Lineman Carmelow Reed Flips Commitment to Ole Miss

OXFORD, Miss. — Following the first weekend of the summer recruiting season, the Ole Miss Rebels are making waves in a significant way. Not only did Ole Miss secure a standout transfer from Hawaii, defensive back Isreal Solomon, but they also achieved their first flip of the June recruiting push with former Wisconsin-commit and 2026 defensive lineman Carmelow Reed choosing the Rebs on Monday.

Standing tall at 6-foot-6 and weighing 250 pounds, this three-star prospect from Rich Township in Olympia Fields, Illinois, made a memorable official visit to the Velvet Ditch this past weekend. By Monday, he had rewritten his future, officially committing to the Ole Miss Rebels.

Reed, ranked as the No. 63 overall defensive lineman in the 2026 class and the No. 13 athlete emerging from the Midwest, had been committed to the Badgers since early April. However, Randall Joyner, known for his exceptional eye for scouting top-tier linemen, recognized Reed’s potential back in March when the Rebels extended an offer to this talented prospect.

Although Reed was initially scheduled to return to Madison following his new commitment, he decided to forgo that visit. His focus has now shifted entirely to the Rebels, where he is ready to make an impact on the defensive front.

As a junior at Rich Township, Reed recorded an impressive 33 tackles, 12 tackles for loss, 5 sacks, 3 forced fumbles, and 1 fumble recovery.

The Fit in the Sip

Reed is an exceptional raw talent with immense potential. As a utility lineman, he brings versatility and options to the defensive front for the Rebels. With time and experience, he will undoubtedly refine his skills, and his tape showcases impressive pass-rushing ability and agility. He possesses a strong foundational talent—exactly the kind of characteristic you want in a lineman, one that can be developed further. At the next level, his diverse skill set positions him to excel as a BUCK or even transition to the defensive end.

This versatility is a significant asset for the Rebels, who have been actively seeking skilled utility players capable of filling multiple roles along the line. Reed’s frame is complemented by a keen ability to navigate around opponents, allowing him to win battles by outmaneuvering them. Once he learns to effectively utilize his frame and incorporate his hands as tools for gaining leverage in various situations, he will elevate his game even further.

As Reed approaches his senior season, there is tremendous potential for growth. This is a major win for the Ole Miss trenches in 2026, and what a fantastic way to kick off the summer recruiting season in the ‘Sip with a not just a commitment but a flip! Welcome to the Velvet Ditch, Carmelow.

Lee Ann Herring-Olvedo

Lee Ann is the Director of Recruiting for The Rebel Walk. She is a veteran SEC sports journalist and NFL content writer. She is also the Sr. Editor for MESPORTS digital. Herring-Olvedo is a Brown University graduate who loves good cigars, good games, and a smooth glass of bourbon — not necessarily in that order.

About The Author

Lee Ann Herring-Olvedo

Lee Ann is the Director of Recruiting for The Rebel Walk. She is a veteran SEC sports journalist and NFL content writer. She is also the Sr. Editor for MESPORTS digital. Herring-Olvedo is a Brown University graduate who loves good cigars, good games, and a smooth glass of bourbon — not necessarily in that order.

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