Sports

David Gabriel Georges’ Work Ethic Challenged After Rejecting Ohio State For More Fun

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iStockphoto / USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect

David Gabriel Georges visits Ohio State.


David Gabriel Georges is one of the top high school football prospects in the 2027 recruiting cycle. He will be one of the highest paid players at his position upon stepping foot on campus in Knoxville.

The tailback committed to Tennessee over Ohio State last week. His camp opened up on the decision in the days that followed.

There were many factors that lured him to the Volunteers. One admission has the Buckeyes questioning his mindset.

David Gabriel Georges wants to have fun.

Stephen Hargis of the Times Free Press broke down his commitment to the Vols. A source close to the family had the following to say.

“David loves the game, but at Ohio State, it felt more like football was a chore he had to do, not something he gets to enjoy playing.”

Gabriel Georges felt more comfortable with in Knoxville. The bond with the coaching staff was natural. The environment is more relaxed.

That quote grabbed the attention of Ohio State supporters. They took to social media with their opinions of the denial after the fact.

Running backs coach Carlos Locklyn looks for toughness out of his players, both physically and mentally. In April of 2025, he provided his outlook on recruiting and teaching.

He is not going to be your best friend. He wants constant competition. Complacency is not an option.

“We’re competing out there every day,” he said in an offseason interview. “If you think you’re going to ‘arrive’ in that room, you’re going to get your feelings hurt. Because I’m going to make sure I hurt them. You got to come to work every day. If you don’t humble yourself, I will.

“It’s a mindset. They didn’t come here for me to be nice to them. I told them, ‘I ain’t your best friend. I’m not trying to be your best friend. If you want to be my friend, guess how you be my friend? Make plays. Do your job. We can be best friends all day then.'”

Locklyn prioritizes development over personal feelings. That approach works for some. David Gabriel Georges preferred Tennessee’s style.

Ohio State is salty.

Many have linked the recruiting decision to money. Gabriel Georges is expected to be the highest paid running back recruit ever.

Details leaked about his NIL deal with the Vols. It’s believed he’ll receive $6 million over the course of three seasons.

Buckeyes’ fans immediately began spewing “false narratives” about the pledge. The ball carrier clarified those claims, some of which were linked to his family’s mum reaction at a commitment ceremony.

Now, another narrative has been formed. David Gabriel Georges is not willing to put in the work, according to those in Ohio.

In reality, Ohio State was out-recruited. The tailback prefers the vibes in Knoxville. He has a better connection with the program. The Buckeyes are still coping with the rejection.