In a big addition to its 2026 recruiting class, the Ohio State Buckeyes have received a commitment from Avon, Ohio four-star athlete Jakob Weatherspoon. That news came on January 2, 2025, one day after Ohio State's convincing 41-21 win over Oregon in the Rose Bowl, setting the stage for their next challenge in the College Football Playoff Semifinals.

The Commitment

Jakob Weatherspoon, 6 feet and 180 pounds, chose Ohio State over Penn State, Oregon, Notre Dame, and Michigan. It was a combination of things that ultimately won him over: the family-like atmosphere he sensed each time he came to Columbus, the way the coaching staff approached him, and the appeal of a team with tradition but also a sense of where it's going in the future.

Weatherspoon announced his commitment via a number of posts on X, including several recruiting analysts and Ohio State fan accounts who were hyped about the news. His decision to commit to the Buckeyes is in line with Ohio State's philosophy of keeping top in-state prospects in Columbus, which often proves to be vital to keeping the program at an elite level.

Player Profile

Weatherspoon is the type of athlete who demonstrates versatility on the field. Though listed as a cornerback, his skill set also includes playing safety and wide receiver, showcasing his athleticism and football IQ. During his high school career at Avon, his best season came in leading his team to an undefeated 16-0 season and capturing the Ohio State Championship. First-team All-Ohio honors followed, further stamping him as one of Ohio's top prospects.

With a natural feel for the game added to his speed and agility, he will add depth to Ohio State's secondary, and early playing time is a possibility. Ohio State defensive backs coach Tim Walton, whose influence has helped mold Ohio State's defensive strategy, made recruiting him a priority.

Impact on Ohio State

Ohio State had four commits in the class of 2026 entering this commitment. Of the quartet, Weatherspoon is the first to pledge on the defensive side of the ball. His pledge of commitment to the Buckeyes provides them with some depth in the secondary but it also reflects that this program can still attract top talents. With this commitment, Ohio State moved to No. 8 in the 2026 On3 Industry Team Recruiting Rankings.

Adding Weatherspoon into the mix is part of Ohio State's bigger strategy under head coach Ryan Day of building a championship roster. His addition brings depth and talent to a defensive unit that will be expected to be a key component in Ohio State's quest for national titles in the coming years.

Looking Ahead

In its true sense, the commitment from Weatherspoon reminds long-range planning by Ohio State with excellence in mind as it prepares for Texas Longhorns at the College Football Playoff. Of course, the 2025 season now, full tilt; eyeballs, undoubtedly, would be drawn to how Weatherspoon quickens toward speed and intricacies of college football, yet his high school decorations indicate there may be bluer skies in Columbus very soon for him.

Of course, that's not a full day of winning, but an investment in the future that again cements Ohio State as a premier destination for elite football talent. While today may be a victory to be celebrated by Ohio State fans off the field, it raises anticipation for what Weatherspoon can bring to the Scarlet and Gray in the years to come.