“I’ve Been Feeling Like Ole Miss is Home”: 5-Star RB Akylin Dear Commits to the Rebels
On Saturday, one of the most highly anticipated commitments in the 2025 recruiting cycle became official as 5-star running back Akylin Dear announced his decision to join the Ole Miss Rebels. Dear, the No. 34 overall prospect in the class of 2025, is the second commitment for Ole Miss in the 2025 recruiting class, and his decision marks a major win for head coach Lane Kiffin and the Rebels’ staff.
With a combination of elite athleticism, vision, and versatility, Dear is poised to make an immediate impact when he steps onto the field in Oxford. His commitment not only solidifies Ole Miss’s offensive future but also serves as a statement to the college football world: the Rebels are ready to compete for top-tier talent and elevate their program to new heights.
At 6-foot-1 and 210 pounds, Akylin Dear is widely regarded as one of the most complete running backs in the 2025 class. Hailing from Meridian, Mississippi, Dear’s blend of power, speed, and agility has earned him comparisons to some of the NFL’s elite running backs. His ability to break tackles, find open lanes, and contribute in the passing game makes him a nightmare for opposing defenses.
During his junior season, Dear dominated on the field, rushing for over 2,100 yards and 30 touchdowns while averaging more than eight yards per carry. He showcased his ability to be a workhorse back, carrying his team to crucial victories and earning numerous accolades along the way. His performances have not only made him a fan favorite but also a top target for some of the nation’s most prestigious college programs.
Dear’s recruitment was highly competitive, with programs like Alabama, Georgia, Texas, and LSU all vying for his talents. However, his connection to Ole Miss, both on and off the field, played a significant role in his decision to commit to the Rebels.
Speaking about his decision, Dear expressed his deep connection to Ole Miss and the sense of belonging he felt during his visits to Oxford. “I’ve been feeling like Ole Miss is home,” he said. “And I’m here now.”
This sentiment highlights the strong relationship Dear built with the Rebels’ coaching staff, particularly head coach Lane Kiffin and running backs coach Derrick Nix. Kiffin’s innovative offensive schemes and proven track record of developing NFL-caliber players were key factors in convincing Dear to choose Ole Miss. The coaching staff’s ability to connect with Dear on a personal level also resonated deeply, making the decision to commit an easy one for the talented running back.
The addition of Akylin Dear is a game-changer for Ole Miss. As the second commitment in the 2025 recruiting class, Dear brings instant credibility and excitement to the Rebels’ future. His presence in the backfield will provide a dynamic playmaker for Kiffin’s high-powered offense, which has consistently ranked among the nation’s best.
Dear’s commitment also sends a strong message to other top recruits in the region and across the country. By landing a 5-star prospect of his caliber, Ole Miss has proven that it can compete with the nation’s elite programs on the recruiting trail. This momentum could lead to more high-profile commitments in the coming months as the Rebels continue to build their 2025 class.
In addition to his on-field impact, Dear’s leadership and work ethic will be invaluable to the team. Known for his humility and determination, Dear is the type of player who inspires those around him to be better. His commitment is not just about talent—it’s about culture and setting a standard of excellence for future Rebels.
As Akylin Dear prepares for his senior season of high school football, excitement is already building among Ole Miss fans. The thought of Dear donning the red and blue and running out of the tunnel at Vaught-Hemingway Stadium is enough to generate buzz throughout the college football world.
For Dear, the focus now shifts to continuing to refine his skills and preparing for the transition to college football. With his natural talent, strong work ethic, and the support of the Ole Miss coaching staff, there’s little doubt that he has the potential to become one of the greatest running backs in the program’s history.
For Ole Miss, the commitment of Akylin Dear is a testament to the program’s growth under Lane Kiffin. It’s a sign that the Rebels are not just content with competing—they’re aiming to dominate in the SEC and beyond. Dear’s decision to call Ole Miss home is a major step in that direction, and the future of Rebels football looks brighter than ever.
The commitment of Akylin Dear to Ole Miss is a defining moment for the Rebels’ 2025 recruiting class and the program as a whole. As one of the nation’s top prospects, Dear has the talent, drive, and character to leave a lasting legacy in Oxford. His decision to choose Ole Miss over some of the biggest programs in the country speaks volumes about the culture Lane Kiffin and his staff have built.
Rebels fans have every reason to be excited about the future. With Akylin Dear leading the charge, the 2025 season and beyond promise to be filled with electrifying performances and the potential for championship success. Welcome home, Akylin Dear—the best is yet to come.