BREAKING
: 4-Star RB Kaydin Jones Commits to Oklahoma State, Rejects $205M NIL Deal from Longhorns, Ohio State, and Notre Dame
In a jaw-dropping announcement that has sent shockwaves through the college football world, four-star running back Kaydin Jones has officially committed to Oklahoma State University. Jones, one of the most highly sought-after prospects in the 2025 recruiting class, made his decision after an intense and highly publicized recruiting process. What makes his commitment even more remarkable is that Jones reportedly rejected a staggering $205 million NIL (Name, Image, and Likeness) deal from powerhouse programs like the University of Texas, Ohio State, and Notre Dame.
His decision to pick Oklahoma State over these elite programs is one of the most intriguing storylines in recent recruiting history. The recruitment of Jones, a dynamic running back out of Tylertown, Mississippi, has been one of the most closely followed sagas of the 2025 recruiting class, and his commitment to the Cowboys has raised eyebrows across the college football landscape. His choice to prioritize a more traditional college football experience, rather than the financial windfall offered by some of the nation’s most successful programs, speaks volumes about his character and long-term goals.
Kaydin Jones: A Star in the Making
Kaydin Jones is a player who has earned every bit of his elite status. Standing at 6 feet tall and weighing 215 pounds, Jones combines a powerful, physical running style with impressive speed and agility. His vision and ability to break tackles set him apart from other running backs in his class. His reputation as a hard-working, determined player on and off the field has made him a top priority for several of the nation’s elite programs.
Jones’ high school career at Tylertown High School has been nothing short of spectacular. As a junior, he rushed for over 2,000 yards and scored 30 touchdowns, cementing his status as one of the top running backs in the nation. His ability to change directions with ease and accelerate through gaps makes him a nightmare for opposing defenses, and his balance and power help him gain extra yards after contact.
As his high school career progressed, Jones quickly attracted the attention of college scouts and coaches. It wasn’t long before some of the most prestigious programs in college football extended scholarship offers to Jones, each hoping to land the talented running back. What followed was a wild recruiting process that would ultimately make Jones the center of one of the biggest recruiting stories in recent memory.
The NIL Battle: Texas, Ohio State, Notre Dame, and Others
The emergence of NIL deals in college football has changed the recruiting landscape, and no one has been more affected by this shift than top-tier recruits like Jones. With the increasing prominence of NIL deals, recruits now find themselves weighing the potential financial benefits of playing for a particular school against the traditional aspects of a college experience.
Jones, however, became the subject of a particularly heated NIL battle. According to reports, the University of Texas offered Jones a staggering $205 million NIL deal, a figure that would make any recruit pause and reconsider their options. The Longhorns, under head coach Steve Sarkisian, have been aggressive in their pursuit of top recruits and have made no secret of their willingness to use NIL deals as a major tool in their recruiting strategy.
Not to be outdone, Ohio State, one of the most successful and storied programs in the country, also entered the fray with a lucrative NIL offer for Jones. The Buckeyes have a long history of producing top-tier running backs, and they were hoping that Jones would be the next in line to take the reins in their backfield. Similarly, Notre Dame, a perennial contender in college football, made an offer as well, with hopes of convincing Jones to bring his talents to South Bend.
However, despite these offers, Jones ultimately turned his back on the millions in potential earnings to commit to a program that he felt best suited his goals, both as a player and as an individual. In an era where NIL deals are becoming increasingly influential in shaping recruitment, Jones’ decision to prioritize a program’s football culture and his development as a player over the financial incentives is a statement of his character.
Why Oklahoma State?
The question on everyone’s mind is why Oklahoma State? After all, the Cowboys aren’t traditionally seen as one of the powerhouses that Texas, Ohio State, and Notre Dame represent. The answer, according to Jones, lies in the program’s culture, coaching staff, and his belief that Oklahoma State provides the best environment for his growth as a player.
In his statement announcing his commitment, Jones said, “I chose Oklahoma State because of the environment. It’s about more than football — it’s about developing as a person and as a player. Coach Gundy and the staff have a plan for me, and I trust them to help me grow both on and off the field. The culture they’ve built here is special, and I believe this is the place where I can make my mark.”
Jones’ decision to commit to Oklahoma State is not just a testament to the Cowboys’ ability to recruit elite talent, but also a reflection of head coach Mike Gundy’s ability to cultivate a winning culture. Oklahoma State has consistently been competitive in the Big 12, and Gundy has built a program known for its player development, strong relationships, and competitive spirit. The Cowboys’ balanced offensive attack and emphasis on running the football made them an ideal fit for Jones’ skill set.
While Oklahoma State may not have been able to match the massive NIL deals of other programs, the program’s focus on player development and the family-like atmosphere undoubtedly played a pivotal role in Jones’ decision. The opportunity to have an immediate impact on the field, as well as the chance to play in a system that values running backs, clearly resonated with Jones and his family.
What Does This Mean for Oklahoma State?
Kaydin Jones’ commitment is a huge win for Oklahoma State and for Coach Gundy’s program. The addition of a player of Jones’ caliber instantly elevates the Cowboys’ backfield and provides them with a future star. Jones will likely be an immediate contributor and could become one of the top running backs in the Big 12 during his time in Stillwater.
In addition to the on-field impact, Jones’ commitment sends a strong message about the power of college football culture. Despite the financial allure of NIL deals, Jones chose to follow his heart and commit to a program where he felt he could develop both as a person and as a player. His decision is a reminder that, while NIL deals can provide immediate financial incentives, the long-term success and personal growth that come from a positive and supportive college environment should not be underestimated.
Conclusion
Kaydin Jones’ decision to commit to Oklahoma State over offers from some of the biggest names in college football is a monumental moment in recruiting. By rejecting a $205 million NIL deal from Texas, Ohio State, and Notre Dame, Jones has proven that he values personal development and the right fit over financial incentives. As the nation watches his career unfold, Jones will likely become one of the most talked-about players in college football. Oklahoma State has landed one of the top running backs in the nation, and the Cowboys’ future has never looked brighter.