Ohio State lands game-changing commitment from 4-star cornerback
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Ohio State football scored another recruiting win Sunday, securing a commitment from four-star cornerback Deontay Malone. The Massillon Washington standout announced his pledge after completing an official visit to Columbus, giving the Buckeyes their first cornerback commitment in the 2027 cycle.
Malone has been a priority target for Ohio State’s coaching staff throughout the recruiting process. Secondary coach and co-defensive coordinator Tim Walton served as his lead recruiter and identified him as one of the state’s top prospects early in the cycle. The Buckeyes extended an offer to Malone earlier this year and remained the most persistent program in his recruitment, ultimately beating out a lengthy list of Power Conference contenders that included Michigan State, Michigan, Auburn, Pittsburgh, Purdue, Maryland, North Carolina, Boston College and West Virginia.
The 6-foot, 182-pound defensive back is regarded as one of the best prospects in the 2027 class. Malone is the No. 284 overall player in the nation, the No. 33 cornerback and the No. 11 prospect in Ohio, according to the 247Sports Composite rankings. Rivals ranks him No. 265 overall in its 2027 Rivals300.
Malone brings production on both sides of the ball. During his junior season, he recorded 25 tackles and three interceptions on defense while also contributing offensively with 34 receptions, 498 receiving yards and nine touchdowns. He added value as both a kick and punt returner and has reported a 4.43-second 40-yard dash. Ohio State believes his versatility could allow him to play either outside or inside corner at the collegiate level.
Malone’e commitment gives the Buckeyes 14 pledges in the 2027 class and makes him the fifth in-state recruit to join the group. He also becomes the third defensive back commitment overall, joining four-star safety Eli Johnson and three-star athlete Angelo Smith in the secondary. Defensively, Ohio State’s class already includes five-star edge rusher David Jacobs, four-star edge Wyatt Smith, and linebackers Quinton Cypher and Prince Goldsby as the Buckeyes continue to build one of the nation’s most loaded 2027 recruiting classes.
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