Ohio State in Two-Team Race for Potential $1 Million Running Back
The Ohio State Buckeyes have hosted class of 2027 running back David Gabriel-Georges for three unofficial visits already. He is set to return to Columbus on May 29 for an official visit with the program.
The 5-foot-11, 200-pound playmaker is a five-star recruit, the No. 2 running back and the No. 13 player in the nation, according to Rivals Industry Rankings. Out of Chattanooga, Tennessee, he's garnered interest from some of college football's top teams.
However, his talents won't come cheap. On Friday, On3's Pete Nakos reported that the Buckeyes and Tennessee Volunteers are viewed as the two teams still standing for Gabriel-Georges, who could earn a deal worth $1 million.
"Georges' recruitment has turned into a race between Ohio State and Tennessee, and sources have said a seven-figure package is not out of the question," Nakos wrote. "The price for top-end running back talent remains highly valued."
Last season for Baylor School, the running back was named the MaxPreps National Player of the Year. He showed off impressive production, rushing for 1,756 yards and 27 touchdowns.
Viewed as a player who could make an immediate impact, the Buckeyes have the resources to make a competitive NIL offer. According to 247Sports, Ohio State had college football's second-largest NIL collective fund ($20.2 million) during the 2025 season.
Ohio State has already put together a 2027 recruiting class that ranks fifth in the nation with 11 commitments. Landing Gabriel-Georges would be a major addition to that group. However, the Buckeyes may need to put together an NIL package that reached $1 million to beat the Volunteers.
Related: Oregon Football Pushing To Flip 5-Star Recruit Amid $1 Million NIL Buzz
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This story was originally published May 8, 2026 at 9:11 AM.