It’s why ESPN’s FPI and other projective rankings are crap — because they base a large part of their calculations on recruiting rankings.
As you said, all the talent isn’t hoarded in about 6 to 8 programs anymore. It’s why Saban is on Gameday — he couldn’t stockpile talent and treat them as indentured servants.
It’s why Love and Learn and never burning a bridge is the best way to handle yourself as a college head coach in 2025 and beyond.