An outstanding student and football player has made his college choice.

Bellefontaine running back Carter Caudill recently signed his letter of intent with Division II Ashland University.

He was joined by his family and coaches during the signing ceremony in the Sloan Distance Learning Center at BHS.

Caudill chose Ashland because of the football program’s winning tradition.

Ashland is a private university. The Eagles compete in the Great Midwest Athletic Conference. AU won the league title last fall.

Caudill was a two-way standout at BHS.

He finished his career with 1,818 yards rushing and 28 touchdowns.

Caudill anchored the Bellefontaine defense from his middle linebacker position the last three seasons.

His career totals include 322 tackles, 19 tackles for loss, 4 fumble recoveries, and 2 defensive touchdowns.

During his sophomore season, the Chiefs advanced to the Final 8.

Carter was named Academic All-Ohio in ’25.

He was also named First-Team CBC in ’24 and picked up Second-Team honors as a sophomore and senior.

Caudill’s senior season ended after he suffered a leg injury in Week 6.

Caudill maintained a 3.9 grade point average at BHS and plans to study business management at Ashland.

His parents are Art Caudill and Kelly Caudill.

Caudill reflected on his signing, “Playing college football has been a goal since I was a little kid. Getting that opportunity from Ashland fulfills a dream.

“My goal is to be a 4-year contributor.”

BHS varsity football coach Jason Brown added, “Carter sacrificed so much for our program the last few years. He was an impactful player on both sides of the ball. He’s an outstanding young man and a relentless worker.

Caudill signed with Ashland over Tiffin, Wittenberg, Mt. Union, Defiance, and Trine.