Big Update on 4-Star OL Target for Ohio State Buckeyes

As the 2025 college football recruiting cycle enters a critical stage, Ohio State has emerged as a major contender for one of the nation’s most coveted offensive line prospects: a rising 4-star lineman whose combination of size, agility, and technique has caught the attention of powerhouse programs across the country. For the Buckeyes, this target could become a cornerstone of their offensive rebuild and a signal that their commitment to trench warfare remains as strong as ever.

Ohio State’s tradition of elite offensive line play is well-established. From Orlando Pace to Nick Mangold to recent NFL Draft selections like Paris Johnson Jr., the Buckeyes have long emphasized recruiting and developing dominant linemen. In 2025, that effort is again front and center as the program sets its sights on bolstering the future front five

The 4-star prospect in question — while yet to make a commitment — has become one of the most talked-about names on Ohio State’s board. Standing at 6-foot-6 and weighing roughly 310 pounds, the lineman has prototypical size and athleticism. His footwork is quick, his hands are violent, and his film shows a rare blend of mobility and strength that has allowed him to excel both in pass protection and in opening up running lanes.

Though listed as a tackle, the prospect’s flexibility across multiple positions makes him even more valuable. With experience at both left and right tackle — and even a few reps at guard — he fits the mold of the modern, versatile offensive lineman that college coaches covet. That adaptability gives Ohio State more options as it builds future offensive line depth.

Offensive line depth has become a growing priority in Columbus. While the Buckeyes traditionally dominate skill position recruiting, recent seasons have revealed the importance of reinforcing the trenches. Injuries, early NFL departures, and transfer portal attrition have all impacted depth charts.

After a 2024 season that saw some inconsistency along the offensive line — particularly against elite defenses — the coaching staff has made it clear that they’re placing a premium on linemen who can step in early and play at a high level.

Ohio State’s line coach, known for developing NFL-ready talent, has made personal visits to the 4-star target’s high school and maintained constant communication. The Buckeyes were also among the first programs to offer him as a sophomore, building trust and rapport with both the player and his family.

The pitch is simple: come to Columbus, compete against the best, and prepare for the NFL. And with the program’s national profile, development track record, and offensive scheme, it’s a message that continues to resonate with top recruits.

The latest update in this recruitment revolves around a recent unofficial visit to Ohio State’s campus. The 4-star target spent two days in Columbus, attending team meetings, watching film with coaches, touring facilities, and getting a feel for the academic and athletic environment.

According to sources close to the program, the visit went “better than expected.” The lineman connected well with current players, including some veterans who could become mentors should he choose the Buckeyes. What stood out to him, reportedly, was the sense of brotherhood within the team and the meticulous nature of the offensive line coach.

In addition to the official tour, he had a lengthy one-on-one session with Ohio State’s head coach. That meeting, focusing on leadership, program expectations, and life after football, left a strong impression on the prospect and his family. His father, a former college player himself, remarked that “Ohio State feels like home.”

But it won’t be easy for Ohio State to land him. The 4-star prospect has an offer list that includes many of the nation’s elite: Alabama, Georgia, Michigan, Penn State, and LSU have all hosted or scheduled visits. Some of these programs have the benefit of geographic proximity, while others have recent playoff appearances to bolster their pitch.

Still, Ohio State has two key advantages: a strong, personal relationship with the staff and a clear path to early playing time. While other schools have logjams or senior-heavy rosters on the line, the Buckeyes are expected to graduate two starting tackles following the 2025 season, creating real opportunity for a freshman to compete.

The lineman has also expressed a desire to play in a system that emphasizes balance — something Ohio State’s pro-style, multiple offense has done well. It’s not just about pancake blocks and pulling across the line; it’s about understanding scheme, leveraging leverage, and growing into a complete lineman. That holistic development philosophy has been a key part of the Buckeyes’ recruiting pitch.

Right now, the lineman has stated he plans to make a final decision by late summer or early fall. This allows him to focus fully on his senior season without the distractions of an ongoing recruitment. He’s expected to narrow down to a top five by July, with an announcement coming in September.

Ohio State, by all accounts, is in strong position to make that final cut. Their focus now will be to maintain communication, possibly host the recruit for an official game-day visit, and reinforce the relationships that have already been built.

One factor that could work in their favor is the Buckeyes’ strong offensive class. Ohio State already has a top-tier quarterback and wide receiver committed for 2025, and adding a blue-chip offensive lineman would help complete the foundation for an explosive future offense. Recruits want to play alongside other elite players — and in Columbus, they’ll find plenty.

This recruitment isn’t just about one player. It represents a broader philosophy shift for Ohio State. The coaching staff recognizes that national championships are won and lost at the line of scrimmage. While stars at quarterback and wide receiver grab headlines, it’s the linemen who protect and pave the way.

If Ohio State can land this 4-star prospect, it sends a clear message: the Buckeyes are not only competing at the top of the recruiting rankings but also prioritizing the positions that determine physical dominance. It would give the Buckeyes a future tackle who could anchor the line for three or more years, much like Paris Johnson Jr. or Taylor Decker before him.

Furthermore, it builds momentum. Recruiting is about perception as much as performance. A commitment from a player of this caliber can trigger a domino effect, convincing other uncommitted prospects — especially linemen — to join the fold.

As the summer heats up, so too does the race for the 4-star offensive lineman. For Ohio State, the update is clear: they’re in a strong position, riding the wave of a successful visit and a long-term relationship built on mutual respect. But with blue-blood programs circling, the Buckeyes can’t afford to get complacent.

Every call, every visit, every meeting counts. But if Ohio State stays the course, they have a very real chance to land one of the premier offensive linemen in the country — a player who could one day be protecting the blind side of a future Heisman candidate.

The next few months will tell the story. And if the Buckeyes land their man, the offensive line room in Columbus will have taken a big step forward.