Elder star QB Kaden Estep flips commitment to Cincinnati Bearcats

Elder star quarterback Kaden Estep made an announcement on November 1st, committing to the University of Cincinnati instead of his previous choice, Miami University. The talented three-star prospect had initially committed to Miami in February. In a social media post, Estep expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to further his academic and athletic career at Cincinnati.

Estep is expected to become Elder's top statistical quarterback in program history by the end of his career. He surpassed the previous record holder, Peyton Ramsey, by recording 6,861 passing yards during the regular season finale against Mount Zion Prep. Estep is also just three touchdown passes away from breaking the school's record for passing touchdowns, set by Mark Miller in 2010.

The quarterback has been a key player for Elder this season, leading the Panthers to an 8-2 record and earning a spot in the Division I Southwest region playoffs. He has thrown for 2,523 yards with a 73.5% completion rate, 26 touchdowns, and only three interceptions, while also contributing 780 rushing yards and eight touchdowns.

By committing to Cincinnati, a power conference school, Estep gains the opportunity to play at a higher level of competition. The Bearcats, part of the Big 12, experienced a notable upset victory against Texas Tech on October 24th. Under coach Scott Satterfield, Cincinnati had its best season in 2025, finishing with a 7-6 record and ranking as high as 17th in the AP Poll.

This commitment shift marks the second high-profile high school recruit to decommit from Miami this season, following Princeton quarterback Jordan Hall, who transferred to Penn State on October 24th. The Miami RedHawks have had a successful season so far, finishing 7-3 and reaching the Mid-American Conference championship games.