**DONE DEAL: “I Am Committed to Ohio” — Star Gadsden Athlete Commits to Ohio State Buckeyes, Spurning SEC Giants**
In a major recruiting victory for the Ohio State Buckeyes, one of the South’s top high school athletes has made it official: he’s headed north to Columbus. The Gadsden City star, known for his explosive speed, versatility, and dominant presence on both sides of the ball, has committed to Ohio State, turning down offers from some of the biggest programs in college football, including Alabama, Auburn, Tennessee, and Miami.
This announcement sent a shockwave through the recruiting world. Hailing from Gadsden, Alabama — a state known for producing elite SEC talent — the four-star athlete was widely expected to stay closer to home. Many had Alabama or Auburn as frontrunners, especially after he made visits to both campuses earlier in the year. But after weeks of speculation, the standout athlete made it clear: “I’m committed to Ohio. This is home now.”
### A Game-Changer on and off the Field
Standing at 6-foot-2 and weighing in at around 200 pounds, the Gadsden product is a dynamic two-way player. As a junior, he posted jaw-dropping stats — over 1,200 yards from scrimmage and 15 total touchdowns on offense, along with 60 tackles and 4 interceptions on defense. Coaches from across the country raved about his football IQ, work ethic, and natural athleticism. But it was his maturity and leadership that truly set him apart.
Ohio State Head Coach Ryan Day personally led the recruitment, prioritizing the Gadsden native early in the process. According to sources close to the program, it was OSU’s long-term development plan, family-like culture, and elite defensive tradition that sealed the deal. “He’s the kind of player who can be a cornerstone in our defense or offense,” one Ohio State assistant said. “He’s that versatile.”
### Spurning the SEC for the Big Ten
Turn
ing down Alabama — especially in your own backyard — is never easy. Even with Nick Saban’s retirement, Alabama remains a premier destination for elite talent. Auburn and Tennessee, too, made strong pushes, pitching early playing time and SEC competition. Miami joined late with a compelling NIL package, but it wasn’t enough.
“This wasn’t about flash or hype,” the athlete said. “It was about finding the right fit. At Ohio State, I felt like they truly believed in me — not just as a player, but as a person. They talked about life after football, building character, and helping me grow.”
The decision didn’t come lightly. After visiting campuses and weighing offers, the Gadsden star took a final trip to Columbus in late March. There, he met with current players, spent time with the coaching staff, and toured the facilities. The visit confirmed everything he had hoped to find: structure, vision, and belief.
### Impact on Ohio State’s 2025 Class
With this commitment, Ohio State’s 2025 recruiting class takes another leap toward national dominance. Already loaded with blue-chip talent like Na’eem Offord, Zahir Mathis, and quarterback Tavien St. Clair, the addition of the Gadsden star gives the Buckeyes another elite athlete with the potential to contribute early.
“He checks every box,” one national recruiting analyst said. “Physical, explosive, and coachable. Ohio State didn’t just win a recruitment — they landed a difference-maker.”
And it’s not just about what he brings on the field. The Gadsden athlete is viewed as a natural leader, someone who could become a culture-setter in the locker room. In fact, sources indicate he’s already started helping recruit other top-tier athletes to join him in Columbus.
### Eyes on the Future
With his college decision now public, the Gadsden standout says he’s ready to focus on his final high school season — and his future. “The pressure is off now,” he said. “I’m locked in. I want to win a state title and represent my community before heading to Ohio State.”
Buckeye fans have reason to be excited. Not only have they secured a top-tier talent from SEC territory, but they’ve also shown that their recruiting reach continues to grow — pulling elite athletes from states once considered out of reach.
The message is clear: Ohio State isn’t just competing — they’re leading. And with this newest commitment, the Buckeyes continue to build a foundation for championships, both now and in the future.
**Done deal. Gadsden’s best is heading to the Horseshoe.**
