No. 1 Ranked RB Akylin Dear Commits to Ole Miss
Ole Miss has landed a massive commitment from Akylin Dear, the No. 1 ranked running back in the 2025 recruiting class. The four-star prospect out of Quitman, Mississippi, chose the Rebels over several top programs, including Alabama, Georgia, and LSU. His decision further strengthens head coach Lane Kiffin’s ability to recruit elite offensive talent to Oxford.
At 5-foot-11 and 215 pounds, Dear is a dynamic playmaker known for his combination of power, speed, and vision. He has been a dominant force at the high school level, racking up thousands of rushing yards while showcasing his ability as both a runner and a receiver out of the backfield. His physicality allows him to break tackles, while his acceleration makes him a threat to score from anywhere on the field.
Dear’s commitment is a huge win for Ole Miss, which has developed a reputation for explosive offenses under Kiffin. With the departure of standout running back Quinshon Judkins to Ohio State via the transfer portal, Dear could be in line for early playing time when he arrives on campus.
In an interview following his decision, Dear cited the Rebels’ offensive system, the opportunity for early playing time, and his relationship with the coaching staff as key reasons for his commitment. “Coach Kiffin and his staff made me feel like a priority,” Dear said. “I believe in what they’re building, and I want to be part of something special.”
With Dear in the fold, Ole Miss continues to solidify its 2025 recruiting class as one of the best in the SEC. His commitment not only adds elite talent to the roster but also signals that the Rebels remain a serious contender for top recruits moving forward.
