 Elite 2025 RB Akylin Dear Decommits from Ole Miss Amid Pressure from Lane Kiffin and Teammates
In a surprising turn of events, elite 2025 running back Akylin Dear has decommitted from the Ole Miss Rebels, announcing his decision to part ways with the program after a series of pressures from head coach Lane Kiffin and some of his teammates. Dear, who had been a highly sought-after recruit since his early high school days, had previously committed to Ole Miss but has now opted to explore other options as his recruitment enters a new chapter.
The news of Dear’s decommitment has sent shockwaves through the college football world, particularly within the Ole Miss fanbase, as Dear had been considered one of the cornerstones of the Rebels’ 2025 recruiting class. The dynamic running back from Georgia, known for his vision, speed, and powerful running style, had been viewed as one of the top running back prospects in the country. His decommitment raises questions about the future of Ole Miss’ recruiting class and what this means for both Dear’s future and the Rebels’ running back room.
Akylin Dear has long been considered one of the top talents in the 2025 recruiting class. Standing 6-foot, 210 pounds, Dear possesses a rare combination of size, speed, and agility that makes him a versatile weapon in the backfield. His ability to break tackles, accelerate through the line of scrimmage, and make defenders miss in open space has earned him comparisons to some of the top running backs in college football.
Over the course of his high school career, Dear has showcased his skills at a high level, earning numerous accolades and securing a spot among the top running back prospects in the nation. His combination of physicality and burst through the hole made him an attractive target for numerous top programs, and his early commitment to Ole Miss was seen as a major win for Lane Kiffin and his staff.
However, despite his commitment, rumors had been swirling for months about a potential change in direction. Dear, who had visited several other schools and built strong relationships with other coaching staffs, seemed to be increasingly conflicted about his decision to join the Rebels.
Sources close to Dear’s recruitment suggest that the pressure he experienced in recent months played a significant role in his decision to decommit. While Lane Kiffin’s high-energy, high-stakes approach to recruiting has been a major asset for Ole Miss, it is also a factor that has caused tension for some recruits. In particular, Dear is said to have felt significant pressure from Kiffin and some teammates, which may have influenced his decision to reevaluate his commitment.
One key source claims that Kiffin, known for his hands-on approach with recruits, had intensified his efforts to ensure Dear’s commitment remained firm. Some reports indicate that Kiffin’s style may have caused some discomfort for Dear, leading him to reconsider his decision and ultimately open up his recruitment once again.
Additionally, there were whispers of internal pressure from teammates, particularly other running backs, who may have been eager to assert themselves as the primary option in the Rebels’ backfield. This dynamic may have made Dear question his role within the Ole Miss offense, leading to further uncertainty about his future with the program.
Dear’s decommitment is a blow to the Ole Miss program, particularly to Kiffin’s 2025 recruiting class. As one of the top running back prospects in the nation, Dear was expected to be a centerpiece of the Rebels’ offense for years to come. With his decision to decommit, Ole Miss now faces the challenge of finding a replacement to fill that void.
For Kiffin, who has built a reputation as a strong recruiter and offensive mastermind, this setback raises questions about his ability to maintain stability within his recruiting class. While the program has continued to attract top talent, especially on offense, the loss of a blue-chip prospect like Dear could force the coaching staff to shift its focus and recruit additional running back talent in a competitive and uncertain market.
Additionally, Ole Miss now finds itself needing to reassess its recruiting strategy, particularly in terms of attracting elite skill-position players. As teams like Alabama, Georgia, and LSU continue to dominate the recruiting trail, Ole Miss must work harder to solidify its position as a top destination for recruits like Dear.
For Akylin Dear, the door is now open for a wide range of opportunities. The 2025 class remains one of the most competitive and talent-rich in recent memory, and Dear’s decision to open his recruitment has many schools already vying for his services. Programs like Georgia, Alabama, and Florida have already been mentioned as potential landing spots for Dear, given his athleticism and ability to make an immediate impact at the next level.
Dear has yet to announce any official visits or the schools he’s considering, but expect him to take his time to evaluate all of his options. With his skill set and reputation as one of the top running backs in the country, Dear is sure to be one of the most sought-after recruits in the 2025 class.
Akylin Dear’s decommitment from Ole Miss has shaken up the college football recruiting landscape and left many wondering what’s next for both Dear and the Rebels. While the pressures of recruiting can sometimes result in unexpected twists, Dear’s decision is a reminder of the delicate balance that coaches and recruits must navigate. For Ole Miss, this marks a significant challenge, but it also presents an opportunity to recalibrate and continue building a competitive recruiting class moving forward.
As for Dear, his recruitment is now wide open, and his next move will be one of the most closely watched in the 2025 cycle. With numerous elite programs in hot pursuit, Dear’s decision will undoubtedly shape the landscape of college football recruiting for years to come.