5-Star RB Took Unusual Approach to Recruiting Visits Amid NIL Era

Class of 2027 running back David Gabriel Georges is nearing his commitment decision. Set to announce his choice on July 22, he is choosing between the Ohio State Buckeyes, Tennessee Volunteers and Ole Miss Rebels.

At 5-foot-11 and 220 pounds, he is a five-star recruit, the No. 2 running back and the No. 9 player in the nation, according to Rivals Industry Rankings.

Throughout the recruiting process, he has gotten an up-close and personal look at all three finalists, taking official visits with each. However, during his time on campus, there was one detail that he preferred not to know.

The emergence of athletes being paid for their name, image and likeness has played a huge role in high school recruiting, and often affects commitments. However, during those official visits, Gabriel Georges admitted he wasn't aware how much each team was offering in NIL.

"I didn't talk money," he said, according to On3's Chris Low. "My auntie was the one talking business. I really didn't want to know during the visits. It wasn't until after, now that I'm getting to the end, that I knew what it was exactly. I really didn't want to know. I didn't want to be on a visit knowing what schools were going to pay me. I wanted to experience each school for what it was, how comfortable I felt at each school and where I fit in the best."

That approach allowed Gabriel Georges to put more of an emphasis on the relationships and opportunities that each school had to offer. However, it's not as though he won't be earning a large payday. On3's Pete Nakos previously reported that a "seven-figure package is not out of the question."

With a decision less than two weeks away, a clear favorite has emerged. The Rivals Recruiting Prediction Machine gives Ohio State the best chance (91.7%) to land his commitment, with Tennessee (3.3%) and Ole Miss (1.9%) well behind.

While an NIL package may affect his final decision, it is worth noting that Gabriel Georges had a lot more on his mind than just money when it came to making a decision.

Related: Florida Predicted to Lose Elite 5-Star EDGE to Heated In-State Rival

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This story was originally published July 13, 2026 at 11:27 AM.