Nation’s No. 1 Player Commits to Buckeyes, Turns Down Massive Offer and SEC Rival
In a move sending shockwaves through the college football world, Caleb “Flash” Walker, the nation’s undisputed No. 1 high school football recruit, announced his commitment to Ohio State University, stunning fans and turning down a multimillion-dollar NIL offer and a long-courted bid from SEC powerhouse Alabama.
At a nationally televised press conference held at his hometown high school in Allen, Texas, the 6-foot-4, 220-pound dual-threat quarterback unzipped his jacket to reveal a scarlet and gray Buckeyes jersey. The crowd erupted, but few were more thrilled than Ohio State Head Coach Marcus Freeman, who has aggressively built a reputation for landing top-tier talent since taking over the program two years ago.
“I’ve always dreamed of playing for a school that values tradition, excellence, and development,” Walker said. “Ohio State isn’t just about winning—it’s about legacy.”
The commitment ends a fierce recruiting battle that had spanned nearly two years. Alabama, Georgia, USC, and Texas had all made aggressive pitches, with Alabama reportedly putting forward an NIL package worth over $3.5 million in endorsement deals, housing, and personal branding opportunities. Yet Walker chose Columbus.
Sources close to the Walker family say Caleb was swayed less by money and more by Ohio State’s quarterback pipeline, including NFL stars like C.J. Stroud and Justin Fields. The program’s stability, fan support, and cutting-edge training facilities also played a major role.
“Coach Freeman didn’t just talk about wins—he talked about growth, leadership, and life after football,” said Darren Walker, Caleb’s father and a former college linebacker. “We wanted a program that cared about Caleb as a man, not just a stat line.”
Walker’s stats, however, are staggering. As a senior, he threw for 4,287 yards and 48 touchdowns, while rushing for another 1,120 yards and 19 scores. He’s known for his rocket arm, lightning-fast release, and a level of poise rarely seen in high school quarterbacks. Many analysts have already projected him as a future Heisman contender and top NFL draft pick.
Recruiting experts immediately upgraded Ohio State’s 2025 class to No. 1 in the nation following the announcement. “This is the biggest commitment since Trevor Lawrence,” said 247Sports analyst Tom Forrester. “It could change the trajectory of the Big Ten for years.”
SEC fans, particularly Alabama’s, were stunned. Social media lit up with reactions, ranging from disbelief to speculation about the future of high-stakes NIL recruiting.
But for now, the Buckeyes are celebrating—and with good reason. Caleb Walker isn’t just a recruit. He’s a generational talent. And he’s heading to Columbus.
“I’m ready to be a Buckeye,” Walker said, smiling confidently. “Let’s go win some championships.”
