National Signing Day (NSD) was once a holy day for college football junkies. The first Wednesday in February meant all eyes were fixed on hat ceremonies, ESPN, team websites, and last-minute surprises. Boosters and administrators would often cap the day with Signing Day Bashes, schedule reveals, and unbridled optimism about the future of their program. However, with the advent of the early signing period in December and the ever-chaotic transfer portal, February’s NSD has become an afterthought for many fans; and optimism has been replaced with a more cautious disposition.

But for the thousands of high school players putting pen to paper, this day is life-changing. It’s a defining moment for the young men officially joining college programs and for those who won’t receive the opportunity, forcing them to redefine their futures outside of football.

This year’s signing day for Bethune-Cookman is about filling gaps, reestablishing a winning culture, and adding depth to a roster that return 9 starters on offense—including 2nd Team All-SWAC RB Dennis Palmer, emerging true freshman OL standout Teko Shoats, and QB Cam Ransom who finished third in the SWAC in passing this past season. The Wildcats return 7 defensive starters as well.

With that in mind, here are the five most compelling storylines we’ll be following for BCU’s 2025 National Signing Day:

1. The Linebacker Situation

The Wildcats’ defense struggled to get off the field in key moments last season, and linebacker play was a major part of the equation. Will BCU add high-impact players at this position? Will they lean on transfers or high school signees? This will be a must-watch area of recruitment.

2. Cornerback Help

Bethune-Cookman’s secondary had its moments last season but lost its top cover man Andrew Volmer to graduation. The Wildcats need reinforcements at CB, whether through the portal or a few high-upside freshmen.

3. Beefing Up the Offensive Line

The offense brings back talent at the skill positions, but success will start in the trenches. The Wildcats return four starters on the offensive line including Teko Shoats, but a) how much depth do they have; and b) can they take the next step in improving their offensive output? Look for BCU to add multiple offensive linemen in this class.

4. The Shock Signee or Instant Impact Player

Every year a signing class has one player who turns heads—whether it’s a late addition, a highly rated recruit, or a transfer expected to make an immediate difference. Will BCU land an impact player on NSD?

5. Where Do Former BCU Players in the Portal Land?

The transfer portal has changed the game, and BCU has lost players to it. Ejike Brown and Ebenezer Dibula come to mind. Both were significant contributors along the defensive line in 2024 but opted for the portal. We hope they land somewhere and find success at their new programs. Best of luck to all of the former Wildcat student-athletes in the portal.

With these storylines in play, National Signing Day may not be what it once was, but for Bethune-Cookman, it remains a crucial step toward building a better football team. Stay locked in as we break it all down.

#HailWildcats