5-star RB Jaelen Gill signs with Ohio State in Early Signing Period

Ohio State has added a local native to the 2018 recruiting class, with five-star all-purpose back Jaelen Gill officially signing his National Letter of Intent. The most recent player to fax in his LOI, Gill is the No. 1 APB in the country, according to the 247 Composite, and is the overall No. 2 player out of the state of Ohio — No. 23 overall throughout the country.

While signing Ohio talent has always been important for the Buckeyes, there’s been a surprising dip in commits from the Buckeye State under Urban Meyer. Losing Gill would’ve been a huge blow to a program that not only boasts about being a draw for local prospects, but also as a team with a stellar run game.

Hailing from just north of campus, in Westerville, Ohio, Gill has bled Scarlet and Gray his whole life, and looks forward to continuing the long standing tradition of excellence and success.

The incoming freshman spoke with Land-Grant Holy Land in late-June, and noted the benefits to playing so close to home.

I grew up a Buckeye fan, so I was always going to have some sort of bias towards that school. Coach Meyer and Coach Alford started recruiting me real hard. I was talking to them every single day and I was seeing them a lot more. It's a great school, not only for sports, but academically. OSU is about 20 minutes away from my family and friends, so I just feel like I'd be missing out on a lot if I didn't stay home and play for the team I grew up watching.

Despite giving Ohio State fans a bit of a heart attack during his commitment announcement, Gill ultimately ended up choosing his home team.

Scouting Report

Gill was constructed for the H-back position in Urban Meyer’s offense. Standing at 6’1, 182 pounds with blazing speed, Gill will be next in line behind Parris Campbell and K.J. Hill in the slot. He was used more as a running back in high school, but did play some slot, where he showed off his terrific hands and route running.

The Westerville, OH product is the type who will be their lead playmaker for years to come. With Hill and Campbell likely returning, it’ll be tough for Gill to see the field as a freshman, but it’ll be worth the wait.

-Christopher Jason

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