Four-star CB Dawayne Galloway backs out of Purdue commitment following Boilermakers' 52-6 loss to Wisconsin

Four-star cornerback Dawayne Galloway, from Walnut Ridge High School in Ohio, has decommitted from Purdue's 2025 class. He was the highest-rated prospect in the class and had been pledged to coach Ryan Walters' program since July.

On Sunday, the 5-foot-11.5 and 170-pound prospect announced his decommitment news on X, writing:

"I have decommitted from Purdue after careful thought and consideration. Thank you to the staff and all involved. I am open to all programs interested in myself. Direct message myself or contact @DJRSwework for everything moving forward."

Galloway's decision comes following a disappointing 52-6 loss to Wisconsin on Saturday, which left Purdue with a 1-4 record for the season. He joins three-star wide receiver Lebron Hill and four-star quarterback Oscar Rios in decommitting from the Boilermakers in the last two weeks.

Galloway was seen as a potential difference-maker in Purdue's secondary. His talent on the field and familial ties to the program, being cousins with Purdue freshman tight end Tayvion Galloway, increased expectations for his contribution to the Boilermakers.

However, with Dawayne Galloway's decommitment, Purdue sits at 12 committed players and ranks No. 66 nationally, a significant drop from its previous No. 30 position. It is also left without a cornerback in the 2025 class. The only other defensive back currently committed to the school is four-star Zyntreacs Otey from the 2026 class.

Kentucky leads the race for Dawayne Galloway's commitment

According to 247Sports, Wisconsin, West Virginia, Penn State, Kentucky and Illinois are currently in the mix for Dawayne Galloway's commitment.

Kentucky has been a big contender since the beginning of Galloway's recruitment. Associate head coach Vince Marrow has been particularly active in pursuing him since last fall when he extended an offer.

Galloway made an official visit to Kentucky on June 18, and recruiting analyst Allen Trieu predicted that he would likely choose the Wildcats following the trip. Even the cornerback himself revealed to On3’s Chad Simmons that Kentucky was a top choice for him before he ultimately committed to Purdue.

However, the competition is heating up as other schools are making huge inroads. Dawayne Galloway has shown interest in visiting Penn State, while Illinois is expected to host him for a visit in the coming weeks, per Tennessee Rivals. So, Kentucky will be facing a tough recruitment journey to land him in its 2025 class.