It’s hard for top programs to hit 35 perfectly. They have to over recruit with the expectation some will sign out of high school and never get to campus.
What happens when a program has more than 35 players. Sometimes they farm players out to JuCos. Imagine thinking you're headed for a top ranked program and you end up at East Buttfart Junior College. You head to the JuCo as directed and the four year doesn’t bring you back the following year.
This happened to a former teammate/friend’s son. It wasn’t because he bombed at the JuCo. They found a freshman they preferred to give the roster spot. He ended up scrambling for a last minute roster spot and playing at a mid major.
Some mid major recruit probably got removed from the roster in the spring to make room for this kid. He was a lock to start at a mid major.
College sports can be a dog eat dog world. Don’t be caught wearing Milkbone boxers.