Roughly a year ago, Aden Owolabi found out he needed to learn how to play offensive tackle. Today, he debuts as 2028’s No. 52 overall recruit in 247Sports’ new rankings.
The 6-foot-6, 280-pound lineman out of Danville (Calif.) San Ramon Valley earns four-star status in this latest update. Considered a top-eight offensive tackle nationally, he also stands as a top-four prospect in the talented state of California.
An impressive initial rating, and this is just the beginning for Owolabi.
“Most notably sports the prototype of a moldable frame with long limbs and lean mass throughout,” 247Sports national scouting analyst TJ Randall said of Owolabi. “Pairs that length with light feet to make it tough for high school defenders to challenge his orbit. Doesn’t stop his feet when latching on or cede control once he’s engaged, leading to consistent displacement. Aforementioned physical and athletic traits are accentuated by the fact that Owolabi’s relatively young for the cycle, cementing a massive ceiling.”
“It’s really a blessing, honestly,” Owolabi said. “I’ve worked really hard for all this, and it’s starting to pay off. I still have more work to put in to become better… But it’s been like a dream ever since I started playing football.”
Owolabi’s path in this game hasn’t always been clearcut. An unexpected position change put his talent and work ethic to the test. Owolabi
“In ninth grade, I started out as a receiver and I was moved to defensive end,” Owolabi said. “I got pulled up for varsity in 10th grade. I thought I was playing end, but I got moved to offensive tackle midway through summer workouts.”
“It was just really hard to grasp everything that I needed to learn. How to take a reach step, how to take a down step… It was a lot of firsts for me. I’ve played football for a long time, but I had never played offensive line.”
“Just being able to stay calm and know that my work is going to eventually pay off, and learning a new position at a high level of varsity, it’s just it’s just awesome. Awesome seeing the work that I put in payoff.”
Owolabi’s recruitment has taken off. Several notable programs are in pursuit.
