Picture a high school junior from New Jersey, standing at a crossroads with college football’s biggest names calling his phone—Alabama, Georgia, Notre Dame, you name it. That’s Jordan Thomas, a 6-foot-1, 185-pound cornerback from Bergen Catholic High School, who just made the biggest decision of his young life. On May 12, 2025, he said “yes” to Ohio State, joining the Buckeyes’ 2026 class and sending Buckeye Nation into a frenzy. This isn’t just a recruiting win for Ohio State—it’s a kid from Oradell, New Jersey, chasing his dream and finding a home in Columbus.

A Jersey Star with Big Choices

Jordan’s no stranger to pressure. Growing up in a football-crazy state, he’s been a standout at Bergen Catholic, a program that churns out Division I talent like it’s their day job. He’s got the stats to back it up: 52 tackles, nine passes defended, and an interception in his latest season, per MaxPreps. Over two years, he’s racked up 100 tackles, five picks, and a knack for making quarterbacks regret throwing his way. At 17, he’s already got the size and smarts to lock down receivers, whether he’s playing outside corner, nickel, or even sliding to safety.

With over 40 scholarship offers, Jordan could’ve gone anywhere. Alabama’s Nick Saban era might be over, but their brand still looms large. Notre Dame and Michigan were in hot pursuit, and Auburn and Texas A&M made strong cases. But Ohio State? They felt different. “It’s about more than football,” Jordan told Buckeyes Wire. “Ohio State’s about building me as a man—my faith, my character, my education, and, yeah, my game too.” That connection with head coach Ryan Day, defensive coordinator Matt Patricia, and cornerbacks coach Tim Walton sealed the deal. Walton, especially, was relentless, texting and calling to make sure Jordan knew he was their guy.

Shining at Bergen Catholic

If you’ve ever watched Bergen Catholic play, you know it’s no joke. They’re a factory for state titles, and Jordan’s been a big part of that, helping them win three straight, including a 2024 Non-Public A championship against Don Bosco Prep. He’s shared the field with guys like Ohio State freshman Quincy Porter, a wide receiver who’s already turning heads in Columbus. Jordan’s not just a tackler—he’s a playmaker, breaking up passes and snagging interceptions with a flair that’s earned him a spot in the 2026 Navy All-American Bowl.

What makes Jordan special is his versatility. Ohio State sees him starting as an outside corner, but he’s got the skills to slide inside or even play safety. “They love that I can do a bit of everything,” he told Eleven Warriors. “I’m a corner first, but I can move to nickel or star if they need me. I just want to make plays.” That kind of flexibility is gold for a program like Ohio State, where Walton’s turned defensive backs like Denzel Burke into NFL prospects.

Why Ohio State?

Jordan’s been to Columbus a couple of times, sneaking in unofficial visits in March and April 2025. Those trips weren’t just about the stadium or the playbook—they were about the vibe. “The coaches, the players, the whole environment—it felt like family,” he said on 247Sports. He’s already planning his official visit to Ohio State, and don’t expect him to waver. This kid’s locked in.

It’s not just about football for Jordan. He’s got big dreams off the field too. Ohio State’s promise to help him grow academically and personally hit home. “They’re consistent about developing me in every way,” he said. “Faith, school, character—that matters to me.” For a teenager staring down a life-changing decision, that kind of support makes all the difference.

Buckeye Nation’s Newest Star

Jordan’s commitment is the 13th for Ohio State’s 2026 class, which is already stacked and sitting at No. 3 nationally, per 247Sports. He’s joining a secondary that’s shaping up to be a nightmare for opponents, with safeties Blaine Bradford and Simeon Caldwell, plus corner Jakob Weatherspoon, already on board. Buckeye fans on X were losing it, with accounts like Barstool OSU and Lettermen Row hyping up the “BOOM” and giving Walton props for another recruiting flex.

For Ohio State, snagging Jordan is a big deal—not just because he’s a four-star talent (No. 176 overall, No. 17 corner, and No. 2 in New Jersey, per 247Sports Composite), but because they beat out rivals like Michigan and Notre Dame. Michigan fans, already sweating their No. 44-ranked 2026 class, felt this one sting. Meanwhile, Buckeye Nation’s dreaming of Jordan locking down Big Ten receivers in a couple of years.

What’s Next for Jordan?

Jordan’s got one more season at Bergen Catholic to cement his legacy before he heads to Columbus. He’s got the talent to compete for early playing time at Ohio State, especially with Walton’s track record of getting DBs ready for the pros. But for now, he’s just a kid soaking in the moment. “I’m excited to be a Buckeye,” he said, and you can hear the grin in his voice.

His story’s just starting, but it’s already inspiring. A Jersey kid with a big heart and bigger dreams, picking Ohio State because it feels like home. Buckeye Nation’s ready to welcome him with open arms, and something tells me Jordan Thomas is going to give them plenty to cheer about. Go Bucks, and go Jordan.