Elite QB Jacob Bell backs off his commitment from Ball State after receiving offer from Curt Cignetti's Indiana

The 2025 recruiting cycle saw the majority of prospects sign with their respective programs during the early signing period, but a few outliers, like Jacob Bell, opted to wait. The three-star quarterback from Naperville North High School in Illinois had been committed to Ball State since the summer.

Despite his pledge to Ball State, Bell has been receiving offers from multiple college programs, and Curt Cignetti's Indiana joined the list on Tuesday. Bell announced the Hoosiers' offer news on X, writing:

"#AGTG Blessed to receive an offer from Indiana University! #GoHoosiers #NeverDaunted."

Hours after getting the offer, Bell announced his decommitment from Ball State in a post on X:

"After deep consideration, I have decided to decommit from Ball State University. I believe this is what's best for me athletically and academically."

The decision comes after Bell’s remarkable senior season, where he established himself as one of Illinois’ top high school quarterbacks. Following two years as a backup to Aidan Gray, Bell seized his opportunity in his senior year.

Bell tallied 3,224 total yards, 44 touchdowns and a 63% completion rate, with a 111.7 quarterback rating this season. He accounted for over 600 passing yards and eight touchdowns in the first two games alone.

This phenomenal performance earned Bell multiple accolades, such as Naperville Sun Player of the Year and Daily Herald Player of the Year. He was also named to multiple all-state and all-conference teams. His academic achievements include IHSA All-State Academic and 2x All-Conference Academic honors.

Jacob Bell is the nation's No. 89-ranked quarterback in the 2025 class and the No. 41-ranked prospect in Illinois, according to 247Sports.

---

Jacob Bell on his experience with Indiana

Indiana hosted Jacob Bell for the 56-7 win over Nebraska on Oct. 19.

“The atmosphere in Bloomington was electric,” Bell told On3 following the trip. “You can tell the fans love the new culture and coaching staff and it was really cool to be a part of. Personally, I’m just excited to see a winning program show interest and allow me to be a part of the atmosphere.”

Indiana also hosted Bell on Saturday for the playoff game against Notre Dame. Though the Hoosiers lost the game 27-17, they are in a good spot to secure Bell's commitment.