Top 2026 Offensive Lineman Zykie Helton Reveals Final Four Schools, Georgia Among Finalists
One of the most coveted offensive line prospects in the 2026 recruiting class, Zykie Helton, has officially narrowed his college choices to four programs. The standout lineman revealed that his final four schools include the University of Georgia, further solidifying the Bulldogs’ continued dominance in attracting elite talent in the trenches.
Helton, a 6-foot-5, 290-pound powerhouse from Georgia, has been a hot name in recruiting circles since his early high school years. His combination of size, strength, footwork, and football IQ sets him apart from many in his class. College coaches across the country have recognized his potential to be a game-changing presence on the offensive line, with some analysts already projecting him as a future first-round NFL draft pick.
The four schools to make Helton’s final list are Georgia, Alabama, Ohio State, and Texas. Each of these programs has a strong track record of producing elite offensive linemen and competing at the highest level in college football. Helton’s decision to narrow down to these schools reflects both his competitive mindset and desire to develop under the nation’s best coaching staffs.
Georgia’s inclusion on the list comes as no surprise. Under head coach Kirby Smart, the Bulldogs have become a dominant force in college football, particularly in recruiting and developing elite linemen. UGA’s success in the trenches has been a key component of their national championship runs, and the program has sent numerous offensive linemen to the NFL in recent years. For Helton, the opportunity to stay close to home while joining one of the premier football programs in the country is undoubtedly appealing.
Alabama remains a constant presence in any top recruit’s list, and Helton is no exception. Nick Saban and his staff continue to field competitive teams with elite linemen who thrive at the collegiate and professional levels. The Crimson Tide’s legacy of championships and player development speaks for itself.
Ohio State and Texas also round out Helton’s final four, each bringing unique strengths to the table. Ohio State’s reputation for producing NFL-ready talent, particularly in the offensive trenches, makes them a formidable contender. Texas, under head coach Steve Sarkisian, has made impressive recruiting strides and is looking to cement its return to national prominence. Landing a recruit like Helton could help define the Longhorns’ future in the SEC.
While no official commitment date has been set, Helton has stated that he plans to take official visits to each of his final four schools in the coming months. These visits will be critical in helping him make his final decision as he weighs relationships with coaching staffs, facilities, academic opportunities, and overall program fit.
As one of the top prospects in the nation, Zykie Helton’s commitment will have ripple effects across the college football landscape. Whichever program secures his pledge will be gaining a cornerstone player with the potential to anchor an offensive line for years to come.
The countdown to Helton’s decision is on, and all eyes will be watching as he gets closer to choosing his college football home.
