As the 2025 recruiting cycle comes to a close, it’s time to focus on the next wave of recruits that the Buckeyes are targeting. Among them is Dorian Barney, a former Alabama commit from Carrollton, Georgia.
Ranked as the nation’s tenth-best cornerback by 247 Sports’ Composite rankings, Barney decommitted from the Crimson Tide about a month ago. Since then, both he and the Buckeyes have shown significant mutual interest. The Buckeyes might view Barney as a Jordan Hancock replacement, given their similar frames.
He attended the spring game in Columbus back in April and was also on campus for the Iowa game in early October. Barney plans to return again this coming spring. In a recent discussion with Bucknuts, he mentioned that he talks with OSU cornerbacks coach Tim Walton nearly every week.
Acquiring a commitment from Barney would greatly benefit Ohio State’s 2026 recruiting class, especially considering they may have only six scholarship cornerbacks after next season.
Although they are expected to bring in one player from the transfer portal before next season, they will still face a shortage in this position following the 2025 season.
Standing at 6’1″ and weighing 175 pounds, Barney fits the profile of being in the slot. As a four-star recruit ranked among the top 100 in 247’s Composite, it’s no surprise that many of the top programs in college football are also pursuing him.
While Barney hasn’t officially designated the Buckeyes as a frontrunner in his recruitment, it’s clear they hold a strong position with him.
Ohio State’s 2026 recruiting class currently has three commitments, but that number is expected to rise as January approaches.
