Carlos Locklyn struck gold Sunday, landing four-star Ohio running back Favour Akih as his first commitment in the 2026 recruiting class—a significant win for Oregon’s dynamic running backs coach and the Ducks’ long-term offensive vision.
In a recruiting world defined by fierce competition, evolving NIL landscapes, and constant roster movement, Locklyn’s early success in the 2026 cycle speaks volumes. Not only does Akih’s pledge give Oregon a head start in a class that’s already beginning to heat up nationwide, but it also reaffirms Locklyn’s growing reputation as one of the nation’s premier recruiters at the running back position. For Oregon fans, this commitment is more than just another star added to the rankings. It’s a statement that the Ducks are actively building for the future—and doing so with elite talent.
Akih, who hails from Ohio, is widely regarded as one of the top all-purpose backs in the Midwest. At 5-foot-11 and nearly 200 pounds, he blends power, vision, and acceleration in a way that makes him a consistent home-run threat out of the backfield. His versatility is part of what made him such an attractive target for Locklyn and the Oregon staff. Whether it’s breaking through arm tackles, catching passes out of the backfield, or patiently waiting for blocks to develop before exploding through a gap, Akih shows the traits of a future difference-maker at the Power Five level.
His junior film turned heads. In just 10 games during the 2024 season, Akih racked up over 1,500 total yards and 19 touchdowns, showcasing his ability to produce in both the run and pass game. Beyond the stats, it was how he played—his patience, footwork, and burst that caught the attention of coaching staffs across the country. Offers from programs in the SEC, Big Ten, and ACC came pouring in. Schools like Penn State, Tennessee, Michigan State, and Miami all pursued Akih, hoping to lure him with proximity, tradition, or NIL opportunities. But it was the relationship with Locklyn—and the long-term vision at Oregon—that ultimately won out.
Locklyn’s approach with Akih was built on trust, transparency, and consistent communication. From the start, he made Akih feel like a priority, not just another prospect. He didn’t pitch empty promises. Instead, he laid out a clear plan for how Akih would fit into Oregon’s offense, how he would be developed both on and off the field, and how Eugene could become a second home. It’s that level of connection that has made Locklyn so effective on the trail in recent years. His ability to relate to young athletes, to mentor them, and to be a guiding voice through the recruiting chaos is something players and families consistently mention when describing their decisions to commit to Oregon.
It helps, of course, that Locklyn’s track record backs up his words. Since arriving at Oregon, he’s developed several high-level backs, some of whom have gone on to NFL rosters or positioned themselves as future pros. His units are known for their physicality, discipline, and ability to thrive in both inside and outside zone schemes. For a player like Akih, who has the tools to do a bit of everything, Oregon’s offensive system is a natural fit.
Akih’s commitment also signals a broader shift in Oregon’s recruiting efforts. For years, the Ducks were known primarily for their flashy uniforms, high-octane offense, and national brand. But in recent cycles, they’ve complemented that sizzle with substance. Under head coach Dan Lanning and a revamped recruiting operation, Oregon has focused on building from the trenches out, establishing a tough, SEC-like mentality on both sides of the ball while still maintaining its West Coast flair. Landing a player of Akih’s caliber from Big Ten country shows that the Ducks aren’t afraid to go into hostile territory and pull out a win.
Recruiting out of Ohio is no small feat. It’s a state rich with football tradition, elite talent, and deep loyalty to Big Ten programs like Ohio State and Michigan. When a top prospect from the Buckeye State leaves the region—especially this early in the cycle—it makes people take notice. For Oregon to secure a commitment like this so far from home requires not only an elite recruiting pitch but also a culture and infrastructure that resonates with players and families nationwide.
Akih’s commitment is also a win for the Ducks in the NIL era. While Oregon has never publicly flaunted NIL deals in the same way as some programs, it’s no secret that the Ducks have built a competitive and forward-thinking NIL strategy behind the scenes. With the backing of high-profile alumni, creative collectives, and a tech-forward athletic department, Oregon is well-positioned to support its athletes on and off the field. For Akih and his family, this holistic support system was an important part of the decision-making process.
His recruitment, though decided early, wasn’t rushed. Akih took time to evaluate his options, speak with coaches, take visits, and gather feedback from mentors and peers. In the end, the decision came down to fit. He wanted to play for a coach who believed in him, in a system that matched his style, and for a program that offered a national platform. Oregon checked every box.
Now that Akih is in the fold, attention will turn to who he might bring with him. Top prospects often become recruiters themselves, helping build momentum for the class by attracting other elite talent. Given Akih’s reputation and personality, there’s every reason to believe he could play that role. Oregon already has several targets in the 2026 cycle who have mentioned the Ducks as a favorite, and Akih’s commitment only strengthens that pitch. Whether it’s other offensive skill players, offensive linemen, or even defensive stars who want to join a winning culture, the Ducks are off to a strong start.
This commitment also gives Locklyn and the Oregon staff some flexibility. With a cornerstone back secured, they can be more selective with their remaining running back targets, perhaps choosing to focus on a speed-based complement or a bigger, power-style back to round out the room. The ability to plan ahead is a luxury in modern recruiting, and one that few staffs can afford without a strong early start.
Beyond the impact on Oregon’s roster, Akih’s commitment carries emotional weight for Locklyn. For a coach who has worked tirelessly to earn respect at every level—from high school coaching to the SEC to the West Coast—this kind of win is both personal and professional validation. It reinforces that his methods work, that his message resonates, and that he’s building something special in Eugene. Locklyn’s energy, authenticity, and relentless work ethic have made him a favorite not just with players, but within the coaching staff and broader athletic department.
The Ducks are hoping this is just the beginning. With the 2026 cycle still in its early stages, Oregon has time to build a class that could rival the top national contenders. It won’t be easy—programs like Alabama, Georgia, Ohio State, and Texas continue to dominate the landscape—but with recruiters like Locklyn leading the charge, Oregon has every reason to believe it can compete at the highest level.
For now, though, the focus is on Favour Akih—a player who, despite his youth, has the potential to be a foundational piece of Oregon’s future. His name might not be the most nationally known just yet, but if history is any guide, that won’t be the case for long. The Ducks have a knack for finding talent that others underestimate or underutilize, and under Locklyn’s guidance, Akih is poised to thrive.
Oregon fans should remember this day, not just for the commitment itself, but for what it represents. In an era where loyalty is rare, development is paramount, and recruiting never sleeps, the Ducks planted a flag in the heart of Ohio and walked away with one of the top running backs in the country. That’s no small feat.
Carlos Locklyn struck gold Sunday, indeed. But if the trajectory continues the way many expect it to, Favour Akih might end up being more than just his first commit in the 2026 class—he could be a program-changer.
