David Gabriel-Georges: Top Running Back Prospect Linked to Ohio State and Tennessee

David Gabriel-Georges, a standout running back from Baylor School in Chattanooga, Tennessee, has emerged as a leading prospect in the 2027 recruiting class. Currently ranked as the No. 2 running back nationally and the top recruit in Tennessee by 247Sports, Gabriel-Georges has garnered significant attention from major college football programs, particularly Ohio State and Tennessee.

No. 2 RB prospect heavily linked to two major college football programs

Gabriel-Georges had a remarkable sophomore season in 2024, rushing for 1,013 yards and 14 touchdowns over 10 games, which earned him the Tennessee Titans Division II-AA Mr. Football honors. His performance included multiple 200-yard games, showcasing his potential as a top-tier running back. This sustained excellence has led to his recognition as a MaxPreps preseason junior All-American for 2025.

No. 2 RB prospect heavily linked to two major college football programs

Ohio State and Tennessee are the two primary programs vying for Gabriel-Georges' commitment. Ohio State's appeal lies in its national exposure and a coaching staff known for developing elite talent. The addition of former NFL offensive coordinator Arthur Smith and running backs coach Carlos Locklyn, who has a reputation for nurturing top-end backs, positions the Buckeyes as a strong contender.

No. 2 RB prospect heavily linked to two major college football programs

Conversely, Tennessee offers Gabriel-Georges a home-state advantage, allowing him to remain close to family. The Volunteers' running backs coach, De’Rail Sims, has a history of overseeing successful rushing units and is focused on enhancing Tennessee's backfield. This emphasis on local talent retention and community engagement makes Tennessee an attractive option for Gabriel-Georges.

No. 2 RB prospect heavily linked to two major college football programs

The decision of Gabriel-Georges will have significant implications for both programs. Whichever school secures his commitment will not only gain an NFL-caliber running back but also potentially influence future recruiting efforts. For Tennessee, landing Gabriel-Georges would reinforce their strategy to keep elite in-state talent and could elevate their recruiting class rankings.

No. 2 RB prospect heavily linked to two major college football programs

Both Ohio State and Tennessee have expressed strong interest in Gabriel-Georges, with 247Sports indicating that both programs are "Warm" in their recruitment efforts. The coaching staffs from both schools are actively engaging with him, highlighting their respective strengths and the roles they envision for him within their programs.

No. 2 RB prospect heavily linked to two major college football programs

While Ohio State and Tennessee are currently leading the recruitment race, the competition remains fierce, with over 30 programs expressing interest in Gabriel-Georges. This competitive landscape may complicate his decision, as other schools could present compelling arguments for his commitment.

No. 2 RB prospect heavily linked to two major college football programs

• “Whichever program ultimately lands Gabriel-Georges secures an NFL-caliber running back whose commitment could shift class rankings, influence future running back recruiting and, for Tennessee in particular, reinforce efforts to keep elite in-state talent home.” — Rowan Fisher Shotton, Journalist

No. 2 RB prospect heavily linked to two major college football programs

As Gabriel-Georges continues to evaluate his options, the college football community will closely monitor his recruitment, which is poised to shape the future of both Ohio State and Tennessee's football programs.

No. 2 RB prospect heavily linked to two major college football programs