Ohio State finds itself in an advantageous position regarding its 2025 recruitment efforts for running backs. Although no commitments have been secured yet, notable prospects like Jordon Davison, Marquise Davis, and even Bo Jackson are actively considering the Buckeyes. While Davison, a national prospect, may attract the most attention, the local talent available in this recruitment cycle ranks among the nation’s finest, promising a significant haul for Tony Alford’s recruiting efforts.
NEWS: Elite 2025 RB Akylin Dear is down to 1️⃣2️⃣ Schools!
The 6’0 210 RB from Quitman, MS is ranked as the No. 2 RB in the ‘25 Class (per On3)
Where Should He Go?👇🏽https://t.co/TlngboccON pic.twitter.com/QCJbNu4Wbj
— Hayes Fawcett (@Hayesfawcett3) February 29, 2024
Despite the promise of the aforementioned trio, Ohio State continues to draw interest from other top-tier running backs in the class. Recently, Akylin Dear from Mississippi revealed on Twitter that he has narrowed down his options to 12 schools, with Ohio State making the cut. Ranked as the 68th best player nationally and the fourth best running back in his class according to the 247Sports Composite, Dear’s decision-making process suggests he’s nearing a choice, with Ohio State firmly in contention.
While prospects like Davison, Davis, and Jackson are currently the focus, Ohio State’s recruiting efforts extend beyond them. A recent announcement from Ohio natives Victor Singleton and Kaden Gebhardt highlights this. Singleton, a cornerback from Toledo Central Catholic, plans to visit Ohio State on April 3, along with trips to Cincinnati, Indiana, and Toledo. Similarly, Gebhardt, a safety from Olentangy, intends to attend a Buckeyes’ practice on March 5. Though unranked on 247Sports, both Singleton and Gebhardt boast numerous offers from notable programs, suggesting their potential as future Division I prospects.
Excited to be at The Ohio State University for spring practice March 5th❗️@MattGuerrieri @bzdebski @jchorba16 @CoachJimKnowles @CoachBart11 @Kstaff07 @OHSBravesFB @AllenTrieu pic.twitter.com/oTEg98mVGE
— Kaden Gebhardt C/O 26’ (@kaden_gebhardt) February 29, 2024
While neither Singleton nor Gebhardt currently holds an offer from Ohio State, their proximity to campus and scheduled visits imply a mutual interest. Their visits provide an opportunity for Ohio State’s coaching staff to assess their skills firsthand, particularly in the defensive secondary, where both prospects specialize.