Clemson beats Ohio State and Penn State for safety Kaden Gebhardt

Lewis Center (Ohio) Olentangy safety Kaden Gebhardt has committed to Clemson.

The 6-foot-1 1/2, 195-pound Gebhardt chose to play for head coach Dabo Swinney and his staff over offers from Penn State, Ohio State, Notre Dame and many others.

“I just got that feeling where I knew it was where I wanted to be and I love it.” Gebhart told On3.

Gebhardt becomes commit No. 12 for the Tigers in the 2026 class, adding to a haul the On3 Industry previously ranked No. 7.

New defensive coordinator Tom Allen was one of the first to heavily pursue Gebhardt when he was at Penn State, Safeties coach Mickey Conn also had a big impact on Gebhardt. 

“I love Coach Conn, Coach Allen, Coach Swinney and the whole staff,” Gebhardt said. “I knew after my first visit that it was the school that fit me best. Where they see me dominating in their defense I absolutely love and can’t wait. I’m very blessed to be a Clemson Tiger.

“I’m All In.”

Things picked up fast with Clemson and Gebhardt

Gebhart has been raving about the ACC powerhouse all year.

“My relationship with Coach Allen and Coach Conn are great,” Gebhardt said. “Love everything about the program and the campus. Love where they see me playing and dominating in their defense. I trust the coaches.”

Clemson offered Gebhardt during a visit in January. He’ll take his official visit the last weekend of May.

“Everything stands out to me about the Tigers!” Gebhardt said.

In 11 games as a junior Gebhardt had 94 tackles, six stops for loss, two interceptions and five passes defended. He goes into his senior year with 312 career tackles and nine interceptions. The On3 Industry tabs him as the nation’s No. 36 safety.

A link to the Clemson class with Gebhardt in the fold here.