
Five-Star CB Elbert Hill Schedules Official Visits, Leaves Ohio State Off His List
Elbert Hill, one of the most highly sought-after defensive backs in the class of 2026, has officially set his visit schedule, and it comes with a surprising omission—Ohio State. The elite cornerback from Akron, Ohio, has lined up visits with four powerhouse programs: LSU, USC, Oregon, and Alabama, signaling a competitive battle for his commitment.
Hill, a standout at Archbishop Hoban High School, has been a dominant force on the field, earning national recognition for his speed, coverage ability, and playmaking instincts. Measuring 5-foot-10 and 175 pounds, he has been rated as a five-star recruit by ESPN and a four-star prospect by 247Sports Composite, where he ranks as the No. 3 cornerback in the country. His skillset has made him a top priority for several elite programs, and his upcoming visits will play a crucial role in shaping his final decision.
According to On3’s Hayes Fawcett, Hill’s official visits are scheduled as follows:
- LSU Tigers: May 30 – June 1
- USC Trojans: June 6 – June 8
- Oregon Ducks: June 13 – June 15
- Alabama Crimson Tide: June 20 – June 22
The biggest surprise in Hill’s recruitment is the absence of Ohio State from his list of visits. Given that Hill hails from Ohio, the Buckeyes were once considered a frontrunner to land his commitment. However, with no scheduled trip to Columbus, Ohio State’s chances of securing the talented defensive back appear to be fading. While it remains to be seen whether the Buckeyes can re-enter the mix, Hill’s focus seems to be on the four programs he has chosen to visit.
Each of Hill’s scheduled visits represents a premier opportunity for the respective schools to make their final recruiting pitch. LSU, known for its “DBU” reputation, has a strong track record of producing elite defensive backs, and head coach Brian Kelly has emphasized the importance of continuing that legacy. USC, under head coach Lincoln Riley, has been aggressive in securing top talent and is looking to strengthen its defense as the program continues its transition into the Big Ten. Oregon has built a strong recruiting pipeline and boasts an innovative defensive system under Dan Lanning, which could be a strong selling point for Hill. Meanwhile, Alabama, even in the post-Nick Saban era, remains one of the most dominant programs in college football and has historically developed elite defensive backs for the NFL.
Hill’s decision-making process will likely intensify following his visits, as he weighs his options and evaluates the coaching staff, defensive schemes, and overall fit for his future. With his recruitment heating up, all eyes will be on where the talented cornerback ultimately decides to take his talents at the next level.