Ohio State Secures Four-Star Cornerback Deontay Malone

Overview

• Deontay Malone committed to Ohio State on Sunday, giving the Buckeyes their first cornerback pledge in the 2027 cycle.
• Recruiting services rate Malone as a four-star prospect with 247Sports listing him No. 284 nationally and No. 33 at corner while Rivals places him at No. 265 in the 2027 class.
• The commitment followed an official visit to Columbus after a May 29 official visit to Michigan State, and Ohio State secondary coach Tim Walton was Malone's lead recruiter during the process.
• Ohio State beat offers from multiple Power Five programs, including Michigan State, Michigan, Auburn, Pittsburgh, Purdue, Maryland, North Carolina, Boston College and West Virginia, and Malone is the 14th member of the Buckeyes' 2027 class.
• Malone is a versatile three-phase player who recorded interceptions and tackles on defense, 34 catches and nine TDs on offense, return duty in high school, and a reported 4.43 40-yard dash, giving Ohio State flexibility to play him inside or outside at corner and to use him on returns.