David Gabriel Georges, a five-star running back from the 2026 class, announced his commitment to the University of Tennessee on Wednesday, opting for the Vols over Ohio State.
A Recruiting Blow for the Buckeyes
The Buckeyes had pursued Georges for nearly two years, dangling six-figure NIL packages that reportedly topped $1 million annually. Their aggressive approach included a personal offer to his high-school teammate, but the allure of a larger financial package and the proximity of Tennessee’s campus to his high school swayed the recruit.
Tennessee’s own proposal, estimated at roughly $2 million per year, sealed the deal, marking one of the most lucrative high-school deals in recent memory.
The commitment leaves Ohio State without any running back signees in the 2027 recruiting cycle, a rare void for a program that traditionally reloads at the position. In response, the coaching staff is re-evaluating its strategy and turning its attention to other targets.
Among the remaining uncommitted prospects are Landen Williams-Callis, Caden Waye, Asa Barnes and CJ Cowley, all of whom still hold offers from the Buckeyes. Jayden Miles, once considered the most likely flip, pledged to Florida State just a day after his official visit to Columbus.
Despite the setback, Ohio State still boasts a deep stable of talent at the position. Sophomores Bo Jackson and Isaiah West are already making noise, while Legend Bey, who survived a fierce recruiting battle with Tennessee, is viewed as a budding star. Freshman Favour Akih, a four-star recruit, and sophomore Anthony “Turbo” Rogers, a top-100 prospect in the 2025 class, add depth to the roster.
Looking ahead, the program pins its hopes on Elijah Newman-Hall, the third-ranked running back in the 2028 class, who could become the next marquee name in the backfield.