UMATILLA, Fla. — Umatilla High School senior Dallas Cottle signed his National Letter of Intent to play football at Hiram College in Ohio on Wednesday, taking his talents to the collegiate level — and among the first to do so at Umatilla High with a Name, Image and Likeness (NIL) deal.

Cottle, who will suit up as a running back for the NCAA Division III program in the North Coast Athletic Conference, leaves behind a decorated high school career both on offense and defense. The versatile senior racked up over 1,235 all-purpose yards during his time with the Bulldogs, including 816 rushing yards and nine touchdowns during his standout senior season.

But Cottle wasn’t just an offensive threat — he was a force on the other side of the ball as well. As a linebacker, he totaled 135 tackles, including 53 solo stops and 18 tackles for loss. He also forced two fumbles and recovered three, earning recognition as one of the top two-way players in the region.

His accomplishments earned him a slew of postseason honors, including selections to the All-State, All-County, and All-Central Florida teams. Cottle played a critical role in helping lead Umatilla to the brink of an SSAA State Championship appearance, falling just short against Space Coast High in a memorable playoff run that brought new life to the program.

“It’s the perfect step,” Cottle said. “Hiram gives me the opportunity to grow as a player and as a student, and I’m excited for what’s ahead.”

The signing also marks a historic moment off the field, as Cottle becomes one of Umatilla High’s first student-athletes to sign an NIL deal. His partnership with Dime Fitness will no doubt pave the way for other high school athletes to score similar deals in the future. NIL deals allow high school and college players to earn money while playing which was passed last year in the state of Florida.

Cottle celebrated his decision surrounded by family, friends, teammates, and coaches, including Umatilla head coach Eric Samuels, a former Bulldog standout himself who is now in his third year leading the program. Under Samuels, Umatilla has seen a resurgence — with Cottle at the heart of it.

Cottle said he remains hopeful that one day he’ll compete at the NCAA Division I level but is embracing the journey ahead. “I know the work doesn’t stop here,” he said. “This is just the beginning.”

Congratulations to Dallas Cottle, his family, coaches, friends and everyone who has had an impact on his life to this point. We wish him nothing but success!