Deontay Malone Commits to Ohio State
The Massillon four-star corner cited his bond with secondary coach Tim Walton, signaling potential momentum for Ohio State’s 2027 cornerback recruiting.
Overview
- Deontay Malone announced his verbal pledge to Ohio State on Sunday, June 14, posting to his X account that he would join the Buckeyes after an official visit to Columbus.
- Malone is a four-star prospect from Massillon Washington who is listed among the nation’s top 2027 corners and is valued for his 6-foot frame, reported 4.43 40-yard dash and three-way production on defense, offense and special teams.
- Ohio State beat out multiple Power Conference offers for Malone, including Michigan State, Michigan and Auburn, with reporters saying the Buckeyes’ persistence and visit weekend were decisive.
- Malone and multiple outlets credited secondary coach and co-defensive coordinator Tim Walton as the lead recruiter and a key reason for his decision to stay in-state.
- The commitment is Ohio State’s first cornerback pledge in the 2027 cycle and its 14th overall, a development that media and OSU staff say could prompt additional cornerback commitments while rivals such as Michigan State pivot to other targets.