Columbus, Ohio – The relentless pursuit of elite talent by the Ohio State Buckeyes continues to pay dividends, as they have secured a significant commitment in the trenches. Cameron Brickle, a dominant defensive tackle from the esteemed IMG Academy, has committed to Ohio State, marking a huge recruiting success for Ryan Day’s program.1 This pledge ensures that Brickle will be a game-changing player for the Buckeyes, bolstering their defensive front for years to come.
While some initial reports or fan excitement might have elevated his immediate ranking, according to the latest information from major recruiting services, Cameron Brickle is a highly coveted three-star defensive tackle in the Class of 2026.2 While not a five-star prospect according to the composite rankings, his commitment is nonetheless a substantial victory for Ohio State due to his impressive physical traits, his potential for development under legendary defensive line coach Larry Johnson, and his presence at a national high school powerhouse like IMG Academy.3
Brickle, who currently stands at an imposing 6-foot-2 and 305 pounds, chose the Buckeyes over strong offers from other prominent programs, including Florida State, Maryland, USC, and Penn State.4 His decision was announced on Saturday, June 28, 2025, culminating a crucial period of official visits where Ohio State clearly made the most impactful impression.5
The value of Cameron Brickle’s commitment for the Buckeyes extends beyond just his star rating. His profile and fit within the Ohio State system make him a truly significant addition:
- IMG Academy Pedigree: Attending IMG Academy in Bradenton, Florida, is a stamp of approval for any high school prospect. IMG is renowned for its rigorous training, top-tier competition, and professional-level preparation.6 Players from IMG are typically more college-ready upon arrival due to the intense environment and high-level coaching they receive. For Ohio State to secure a talent from such a respected program demonstrates their ability to attract and develop elite athletes. Brickle’s journey has been unique, as he has moved schools multiple times (including Malvern Prep in Pennsylvania and Santa Margarita Catholic in California) before landing at IMG for his senior year, which suggests resilience and adaptability.7
- Physical Dominance and Play Style: Scouting reports on Brickle highlight his major physical presence and his ability to be disruptive in the interior. He’s described as a player with heavy hands, quick feet for his size, and the power to knock offensive linemen backward.8 He can disengage from blockers effectively and shows the ability to run down plays from behind. He’s specifically identified as an interior lineman who can play the 3-technique (lining up outside the guard) and get upfield into the backfield, rather than primarily as a nose guard.9 This aligns perfectly with Ohio State’s defensive scheme, which often seeks athletic and disruptive interior linemen who can generate pressure. Brickle himself expressed that he wanted to play in a defense where he wasn’t always over the center, and the Buckeyes assured him they didn’t see him in that role.
- The Larry Johnson Factor: Perhaps the most compelling reason for Brickle’s commitment is the opportunity to be coached by Larry Johnson Sr., widely considered one of the best defensive line coaches in the history of college football. Johnson’s track record of developing NFL talent is unparalleled, boasting a list of first-round picks that includes the Bosa brothers, Chase Young, and many others.10 Brickle specifically cited Coach Johnson’s “overall passion for the game” and “the way he breaks the game down” as key reasons for his choice.11 For a young defensive lineman with professional aspirations, the chance to learn from a legend like Johnson is an almost irresistible draw. This commitment also serves as a crucial validation for Johnson, who at 73 years old, continues to prove his ability to land top defensive line talent despite some recent questions about his recruiting effectiveness.
- Fit in Ohio State’s Defensive Scheme: Under defensive coordinator Matt Patricia (who was recently brought on in 2025) and head coach Ryan Day, Ohio State consistently runs a defense that prioritizes strong defensive line play to disrupt opposing offenses.12 Brickle’s ability to penetrate and play the 3-technique position fits perfectly into this philosophy, offering a powerful interior presence that can free up edge rushers and linebackers. He expressed that “the overall vision I saw for myself sitting in those meetings with not only coach Day, but with coach Patricia and coach Day,” sealed his decision.
- Momentum in the 2026 Class: Brickle’s commitment is part of a broader surge for Ohio State’s 2026 recruiting class, particularly on the defensive line. His pledge came just one day after four-star defensive lineman Damari Simeon also committed to the Buckeyes, and joins earlier defensive line commit Khary Wilder, a four-star edge rusher.13 This rapid succession of defensive line commitments indicates a strong focus by the coaching staff on bolstering the trenches. As of his commitment, Ohio State’s 2026 class has 19 pledges and ranks No. 5 nationally in the 247Sports composite standings, a strong testament to their overall recruiting prowess.
While some may focus on the three-star ranking in a class full of five-stars, Brickle’s profile suggests he has the potential to outperform his current rating significantly. His raw physical tools, combined with the elite coaching he will receive from Larry Johnson and the competitive environment at Ohio State, could unlock his “game-changing” ability.
He’s not just a body; he’s a talent with a high motor and the physical attributes to be a key rotational piece early in his career, with the upside to become a multi-year starter and an NFL-caliber defensive tackle. His presence will add crucial depth and competition to a defensive line room that consistently aims to be one of the best in the nation. The fact that he plans to enroll early in January will also give him a head start in adjusting to college life and the Buckeyes’ strength and conditioning program.
In conclusion, Cameron Brickle’s commitment to Ohio State is far more than just another name on a recruiting list. It represents a significant strategic win, showcasing Ohio State’s enduring appeal to top talent, the continued drawing power of Larry Johnson, and the program’s ability to identify and secure players who perfectly fit their scheme. He is set to be a crucial piece for the Buckeyes’ future, and his journey from IMG Academy to Columbus promises to be one of development and impactful contributions on the defensive line.
