Imagine being one of the top high school football prospects in the nation, with dozens of elite colleges vying for your talent. That’s the reality for Abraham Sesay, a four-star EDGE rusher from Downingtown East High School in Pennsylvania, who has narrowed his choices down to just six schools. But here’s where it gets controversial: despite Ohio State being a favorite earlier this week, they didn’t make the cut. So, which schools did? Let’s dive in.
Standing at an impressive 6-foot-4.5 and weighing 225 pounds, Sesay is no ordinary athlete. Ranked as the No. 77 overall prospect and No. 10 EDGE in the 2027 cycle by the Rivals Industry Ranking—a comprehensive average of major recruiting media companies—he’s also Pennsylvania’s No. 4 recruit. Rivals, however, places him even higher: No. 38 nationally, No. 5 EDGE, and No. 3 in the Keystone State. These rankings aren’t just numbers; they’re a testament to his potential to dominate at the collegiate level.
Sesay’s top six schools are a mix of tradition, prestige, and football prowess: Duke, Florida State, Miami, Notre Dame, Penn State, and South Carolina. Each program brings something unique to the table, but two have been particularly aggressive in their pursuit. “Notre Dame and Penn State have been recruiting me pretty hard,” Sesay told Rivals’ Steve Wiltfong. Notably, Penn State’s efforts include Coach Christian Smith, who previously recruited Sesay while at Northwestern. And this is the part most people miss: Notre Dame’s offer in November wasn’t just another scholarship—it was a game-changer. “I’m definitely interested in Notre Dame,” Sesay shared with Blue & Gold’s Kyle Kelly. “Their education, structure, and culture really stand out to me.”
Duke, meanwhile, made a strong impression during Sesay’s visit to Durham last month. “It was a great visit—it definitely surpassed my expectations,” he told Rivals’ Chad Simmons. From touring the facilities to catching a Duke basketball game, Sesay was immersed in the Blue Devils’ culture. Head Coach Manny Diaz and his staff have clearly left a mark, positioning Duke as a serious contender.
The absence of Ohio State from Sesay’s final list is surprising, especially since the Buckeyes were trending as a favorite earlier this week. Could this be a strategic move by Sesay, or did something shift behind the scenes? It’s a question that’s sure to spark debate among fans and analysts alike.
As Sesay prepares for crucial visits this spring and summer, one thing is certain: his decision will send ripples through the recruiting world. Will he commit before his senior season begins, or will he keep us all guessing? And here’s a thought-provoking question for you: With so much talent and so many options, what factors should a top recruit like Sesay prioritize—football legacy, academic reputation, or something else entirely? Let us know in the comments!
