Top 3 landing spots for four-star OL Da’Ron Parks to the class of 2026 ft. Penn State

By Maliha

Modified Jul 25, 2024 11:19 GMT

Four-star offensive lineman Da’Ron Parks has received more than 20 offers, which include West Virginia, Alabama, Florida, Miami, NC State, Ohio State, Penn State and Tennessee. Parks announced his transfer from Hurricane (W. Va.) High School to Sarasota (Fla.) Cardinal Mooney after a stellar sophomore season where he earned Class AAA first-team All-State honors.

According to On3, Parks is the No. 2 prospect in West Virginia, the No. 9 interior lineman, and the No. 251 overall player in the 2026 class. 247Sports ranks him as the No. 1 prospect in West Virginia and the No. 6 interior lineman in the class. Let's see which three teams are leading the race for securing Parks' pledge.

Top 3 potential destinations for Da’Ron Parks

#3. Virginia Tech

Virginia Tech is in the mix for Da’Ron Parks with a 3.2% chance of landing him, according to On3's Recruiting Prediction Machine. The Hokies made their first offer to Parks on March 4, 2023.

Virginia Tech already secured the commitment of rising junior quarterback Peyton Falzone, who is currently the only committed player in West Virginia's 2026 class.

#2. Ohio State

Ohio State has a slightly higher chance of landing Parks, standing at 3.8% in the On3's Recruiting Prediction Machine. The Buckeyes have a storied tradition of developing NFL-caliber offensive linemen, which makes them an attractive option for any top lineman recruit.

Ohio State extended its offer to Da’Ron Parks on August 8, 2023. He visited the program on June 18 and participated in its 7-on-7 camp, where he had the opportunity to work closely with offensive line coach Justin Frye. The personal attention and detailed coaching he received left a lasting impression on him.

“It was a good experience,” Parks said (via Lettermen Row). “He taught me a lot of new drills. He taught me how to play with more leverage, play lower. How to get my feet into the ground quicker.”

Parks plans to return to Ohio State this fall for a game-day visit. Ohio State currently has only five-star wide receiver Chris Henry Jr. committed to its 2026 class.

#1. Penn State

Penn State emerged as the frontrunner in the race for Parks, boasting a 47.3% chance of securing his commitment, according to On3's Recruiting Prediction Machine. The Nittany Lions were the first Power Five school to offer the coveted recruit.

Da’Ron Parks first visited Penn State last September for their season opener against Virginia and was impressed with what he saw.

"It was crazy," Parks said ( via Lions247). "They played really well. I like their offense."

During his visit, Parks had the opportunity to interact with Penn State's coaching staff, including head coach James Franklin and offensive line coach Phil Trautwein. Penn State’s 2026 recruiting class already includes commitments from four-star running back Messiah Mickens and four-star quarterback Troy Huhn.