Vanderbilt Commodores have secured a verbal commitment from three‑star running back MJ Gideon for the 2027 recruiting class, a move that underscores the program’s intent to rebuild a depleted backfield.
Hailing from Madison, Alabama, Gideon arrives as the No. 26 prospect in his state and the No. 65 rusher nationally, having posted 1,221 rushing yards and 15 touchdowns as a junior at James Clemens High School.
Coach Clark Lea and offensive coordinator Tim Beck have emphasized the importance of depth, noting that the Commodores must replace seniors Sedrick Alexander and MK Young, the current workhorses of the backfield.
The commitment adds to a class that already boasts four‑star linebacker Omarii Sanders and three‑star tight end Grant Haviland, positioning Vanderbilt’s 2027 cohort at No. 38 in the national rankings.
Running backs coach Ghaali Muhammad‑Lankford, who has overseen the development of Alexander and Young, highlighted Gideon’s fit with the program’s growth trajectory, while the roster also includes veterans Jamezell Lassiter, Gabe Fields, Evan Hampton and Izayah Lee who continue to contribute on offense.
Visiting Nashville
Gideon is scheduled to tour Vanderbilt on June 5, a visit that could tip the scales as the Commodores aim to solidify a recruiting class that promises to shore up both depth and future performance.