Elbert Hill, a standout cornerback from Archbishop Hoban High School in Akron, Ohio, has emerged as the top-ranked recruit in the state for the class of 2026

Elbert Hill, a standout cornerback from Archbishop Hoban High School in Akron, Ohio, has emerged as the top-ranked recruit in the state for the class of 2026.

according to the 247Sports Composite Rankings. Standing 5-foot-10 and weighing 175 pounds, Hill is not only the No. 1 cornerback nationally but also holds the 22nd overall spot among 2026 prospects.

 

Hill’s exceptional skills have attracted attention from premier college football programs across the nation. He has received offers from 29 schools, including powerhouses such as Alabama, Michigan, Ohio State, Oregon, and Penn State. His recruitment journey has been active, with unofficial visits to several of these institutions. Notably, Hill has made multiple trips to Ohio State, with visits recorded on June 13, July 25, and November 11, 2024. He also visited Alabama on June 22 and September 28, 2024, and Oregon on July 27 and November 9, 2024.

 

Despite the widespread interest, Ohio State appears to be the frontrunner in securing Hill’s commitment. The 247Sports Crystal Ball predictions currently favor the Buckeyes, with analysts projecting a 100% likelihood of Hill choosing Ohio State. This sentiment is echoed by Rivals, which suggests that Michigan may miss out on Hill, as he seems inclined toward a Big Ten rival, presumably Ohio State.

 

Hill’s recruitment is still open, and he is considering all his options carefully. In addition to his visits, he has expressed interest in programs like USC, having visited Los Angeles and spoken highly of the Trojans’ coaching staff and facilities. As his decision-making process continues, Hill plans to take further visits and evaluate each program’s offerings to determine the best fit for his athletic and academic future.

 

In summary, Elbert Hill’s status as the top recruit in Ohio for 2026 has positioned him at the center of a competitive recruiting battle among several elite college football programs. While Ohio State currently leads the race, the final decision will depend on Hill’s assessments in the coming mo

nths.