Rising Star: Makai Buchanan's Recruitment Journey with USC, Georgia, and Ohio State
Victor Valley's rising sophomore running back, Makai Buchanan, returned to USC for a workout session with running backs coach Anthony Jones. Buchanan, who received an offer from USC in eighth grade, has been a frequent visitor to the campus, building a strong relationship with Jones through various interactions. During his recent visit, Buchanan trained alongside USC commit Javon Vital Jr., receiving personalized attention and feedback from Coach Jones.
Despite being a young prospect, Buchanan has already caught the attention of USC's coaching staff, including coach Lincoln Riley, general manager Chad Bowden, and assistant general manager Dre Brown. The Trojans are committed to keeping Buchanan in the state and have made him a top priority in their recruitment efforts. Buchanan has also formed connections with current USC players from the impressive 2026 recruiting class, further solidifying his interest in the program.
While USC remains a strong contender for Buchanan, he has garnered interest from over 30 schools across the country. Recently, he visited Georgia, impressed by the program's track record of producing NFL-caliber running backs. Buchanan also has Ohio State on his radar, drawn to the coaching staff led by Carlos Locklyn and the program's NFL-ready culture. His visit to Columbus provided him with valuable insights into the team's practices and player development.
In conclusion, Makai Buchanan's recruitment journey is gaining momentum as he attracts attention from top college football programs. With USC, Georgia, and Ohio State vying for his commitment, Buchanan faces a tough decision ahead as he evaluates his options and considers the best fit for his future in collegiate football.