Ollie Gordon has emerged as one of the most exciting young talents in American football. Known for his explosive running style and ability to dominate games, Gordon has quickly risen from a promising high school athlete to one of the most talked-about college football players in the United States. His performances at Oklahoma State have earned him national recognition, NFL Draft buzz, and comparisons with some of the sport’s greatest running backs. This article provides a complete look at Ollie Gordon’s career, achievements, playing style, current trends as of 2025, practical insights for aspiring athletes, and his growing influence on and off the field.
Who Is Ollie Gordon?
Ollie Gordon II is an American football running back for the Oklahoma State Cowboys. Born in 2004 in Fort Worth, Texas, Gordon made headlines early in his career for his standout high school performances. He played at Trinity High School in Euless, Texas, where he rushed for thousands of yards and quickly became a four-star recruit. In 2021, he committed to Oklahoma State University, choosing the Cowboys over several other Division I programs.
Gordon’s collegiate career accelerated rapidly. By 2023, he had already established himself as the starting running back. His blend of size, speed, and vision made him a dangerous asset in the Big 12 Conference, and he gained a reputation as one of the most dynamic playmakers in college football.
Early Life and High School Career
Growing up in Texas, Gordon was immersed in football culture from a young age. He showcased elite athleticism not only on the football field but also in track and field. At Trinity High School, Gordon’s running style was described as relentless, with a natural ability to break tackles and extend plays.
By his senior year, he was ranked among the top high school running backs in the nation. Recruiting services like 247Sports and Rivals consistently rated him as a four-star prospect, predicting he would be a high-impact player at the college level. His decision to join Oklahoma State gave the Cowboys one of their most highly regarded recruits in recent memory.
College Career at Oklahoma State
Breakthrough Season
Gordon’s breakout came in the 2023 season when he became the Cowboys’ feature back. That year, he rushed for over 1,500 yards, led the Big 12 in rushing touchdowns, and won the Doak Walker Award, given to the best running back in college football. His performance was instrumental in Oklahoma State reaching the Big 12 Championship Game.
He followed that with another dominant campaign in 2024, solidifying himself as one of the top prospects for the 2025 NFL Draft. Analysts from ESPN and CBS Sports frequently listed him in the top 10 of mock draft boards, citing his ability to carry an offense and make game-changing plays.
Playing Style
Ollie Gordon is often described as a power back with finesse. Standing at 6’1” and weighing around 210 pounds, he combines strength with agility. He thrives on inside zone runs, breaking tackles and gaining yards after contact. At the same time, he possesses the speed to break long runs once he finds space. Coaches and analysts often compare him to NFL stars like Derrick Henry and Josh Jacobs for his ability to balance power with explosiveness.
Career Highlights and Achievements
Winner of the Doak Walker Award (2023).
First-team All-Big 12 selection (2023, 2024).
Rushed for over 2,800 yards combined in two seasons.
Led the Big 12 in rushing yards and touchdowns in 2023.
Helped Oklahoma State secure multiple bowl game appearances.
These achievements established Gordon as not only a star of the Big 12 but also one of the most recognizable names in college football.
Recent Trends in 2025
NFL Draft Projections
As of 2025, Ollie Gordon is widely projected as a first-round pick in the upcoming NFL Draft. Multiple scouts describe him as a franchise-changing running back. With many NFL teams seeking dynamic offensive weapons, Gordon’s draft stock remains high.
Social Media Buzz
On platforms like X (formerly Twitter), hashtags like #OllieGordon and #CowboysNation regularly trend during Oklahoma State games. Highlight reels of his runs often go viral on TikTok and YouTube, boosting his popularity beyond the traditional college football fan base.
NIL (Name, Image, Likeness) Deals
Thanks to the NCAA’s new NIL rules, Gordon has already secured lucrative endorsement deals. In 2024, he partnered with athletic brands, local Oklahoma businesses, and even appeared in national commercials. His marketability adds to his appeal as a future NFL star.
Comparisons With NFL Greats
Sports debates on Quora and fan forums frequently compare Gordon to legendary running backs. Some suggest his ceiling is similar to Ezekiel Elliott’s early career at the Dallas Cowboys, while others see shades of Saquon Barkley in his play.
Practical Tips for Aspiring Athletes
Focus on Fundamentals
Gordon’s rise shows the importance of mastering the basics. From footwork drills to weight training, aspiring athletes should prioritize fundamentals over flashy skills.
Patience and Development
Gordon didn’t become a star overnight. His early years involved continuous development. Young athletes can learn from his patience and commitment to training.
Balancing Academics and Athletics
Despite his football commitments, Gordon has emphasized the importance of academics, a lesson valuable for student-athletes managing both school and sport.
Leveraging NIL Opportunities
Future players can look at Gordon’s endorsement deals as a blueprint for building a personal brand while still in college. Smart financial management and brand partnerships can secure long-term benefits.
Real-Life Examples of His Influence
Ollie Gordon’s story resonates beyond football. In his hometown of Euless, he frequently participates in youth football camps, inspiring the next generation. At Oklahoma State, his leadership on and off the field has made him a role model for younger teammates.
Fans have shared countless stories online of meeting Gordon and describing him as approachable, humble, and dedicated to giving back. This human side enhances his image as not just an athlete but a community leader.
Statistical Analysis
According to official NCAA statistics, Gordon averaged 6.2 yards per carry across two seasons. He recorded 18 games with over 100 rushing yards, including multiple performances where he exceeded 200 yards. These numbers place him among the top running backs in recent college football history.
Data from Pro Football Focus (PFF) further highlights his dominance, ranking him among the nation’s top three running backs for yards after contact in 2024. Such statistics underline his ability to not just gain yards but to dominate defenses consistently.
Challenges and Criticism
Despite his success, Gordon has faced challenges. Some critics argue that modern NFL teams are devaluing running backs, making it harder for even elite prospects to secure long-term contracts. Others point out that Gordon must continue improving his pass-blocking and receiving skills to thrive at the next level. These critiques highlight the evolving nature of football and the adjustments Gordon will need to make.
The Future of Ollie Gordon
Looking ahead, Gordon’s NFL career will be closely followed. With his skillset and marketability, he is poised to become a household name in professional football. If he continues on his trajectory, he could redefine the role of running backs in the modern NFL.
FAQs
Who is Ollie Gordon?
Ollie Gordon is a standout college football running back for Oklahoma State University, widely regarded as one of the top prospects for the 2025 NFL Draft.
What are Ollie Gordon’s major achievements?
He won the Doak Walker Award in 2023, earned multiple All-Big 12 selections, and rushed for more than 2,800 yards across two seasons.
Is Ollie Gordon entering the NFL Draft?
Yes, Gordon is expected to declare for the 2025 NFL Draft and is projected to be a first-round pick.
What makes Ollie Gordon unique as a player?
His combination of size, strength, speed, and vision makes him a versatile back. He is particularly effective at breaking tackles and gaining yards after contact.
How does Ollie Gordon influence aspiring athletes?
Through his youth camps, NIL deals, and personal story of development, Gordon inspires young athletes to pursue excellence on and off the field.
To Conclude
Ollie Gordon’s story embodies the journey of a modern football star. From his roots in Texas to national acclaim at Oklahoma State, he has shown resilience, skill, and leadership. His ability to adapt to changes in college football, embrace NIL opportunities, and deliver game-winning performances positions him as a once-in-a-generation talent. As he prepares for his next chapter in the NFL, the football world watches with anticipation. His legacy will likely extend beyond the gridiron, shaping how future players approach the game and life itself.
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