Ohio State Adds Commitment of In-State Talent for 2026 Class

Ohio State adds its next big piece to the class of 2026 with the commitment of three-star wide receiver Jaeden Ricketts out of Pataskala, Ohio. A star at Watkins Memorial High School, Ricketts brings speed, ability, and versatility onto Ohio State's roster at some point in the future.

Who is Jaeden Ricketts?

There probably wasn't a higher rising star in Ohio high school football than Jaeden Ricketts, at 6 feet tall and 187 pounds. The top performances he made during high school drew the Buckeyes' coaching staff's attention after a good performance in summer's recruiting camp. Of all the things about him, it’s his running speed- He is a sportsman, who has recorded a personal best of 10.88 seconds in 100m run.

A Perfect Fit for Ohio State

Ricketts committed to the Buckeyes on November 16, 2024, shortly after Ohio State's win over Northwestern. He committed due to the heavy recruiting at Ohio State led by wide receiver coach Brian Hartline. The Buckeyes recognized Ricketts’ potential early, extending him an offer in June 2024, and he joins Chris Henry Jr., a five-star prospect, as the second wide receiver commit in the 2026 class.

The Road to Columbus

Committed to Ohio State over nine other Division I offers, Ricketts had choices from the likes of Illinois, Miami (OH), and Toledo. Unranked in the 247Sports composite system at the time of commitment, his raw talent and pure speed make him the exciting prospect. Ricketts staying in his home state adds to the rich Buckeyes tradition of turning local products into national stars.

A Star in the Making

What sets Ricketts apart is his ability to dominate on the field with both athleticism and football IQ. His commitment strengthens Ohio State's recruiting pipeline, particularly for the wide receiver position—a group that consistently excels under Hartline’s guidance. With two wideouts already committed, Ohio State plans to add more firepower to its receiving corps as it builds for the future.

Ohio State true freshman wide receiver Jeremiah Smith was an electric storm that traveled through college football this year, writing his name in history books with broken long-standing records held by no less than incomparable Cris Carter. Slotted as one of the most promising youngsters in the nation, he had an incredible performance.

The Season of Breakthroughs

He entered the season as one of the most hyped recruits coming out of Florida, and amidst all that pressure, he steadily produced on the field with his incredible skill set and football IQ. He had his breakout game early in the season, going for a then-career-high 150 yards receiving against a good non-conference opponent while catching two touchdowns. At that point forward, Smith was a key contributor to Ohio State's high-powered offense.

Breaking Cris Carter's Records

When Cris Carter-a true Ohio State legend and Pro Football Hall of Famer-was a Buckeye, he set the bar at a very high standard for all freshman receivers. A number of his records-most receptions and most receiving yards by a true freshman-had stood unquestioned for decades. But Smith's resolve and skill have him break through those. Smith's six catches for 87 yards and a touchdown against Purdue officially broke Carter's records, putting him in Ohio State history.

A Look at the Numbers

Jeremiah Smith's record-breaking season has been nothing short of spectacular. Here are the key statistics that define his success:

Receptions: Smith has amassed 65 receptions, breaking Carter's freshman record of 58.

Receiving Yards: With 678 receiving yards, Smith surpassed Carter's mark of 618 yards.

Touchdowns: Smith has also contributed eight touchdowns, further showcasing his ability to find the end zone.

Praise from Coaches and Teammates

Smith's performances have not gone unnoticed by the coaches and teammates alike. Head Coach Ryan Day labeled Smith with praise for his work ethic and being mature, saying, "Jeremiah is a special talent. His ability to make plays in crucial moments has been a game-changer for us this season. He has a bright future ahead of him."

Teammates also aren't shy about heaping praise on Smith's contribution to the team. Senior wide receiver Emeka Egbuka, who took Smith under his wing, said, "Jeremiah's commitment and focus are off the chart. He's always looking to get better, and he's a real competitor. We're fortunate to have him on our side."

Looking Ahead

The more the season progresses, the farther from over Jeremiah Smith is. With a few games left in the season, including a possible shot at the College Football Playoff, Smith is set up to cement an already great legacy at Ohio State. The only thing fans and analysts can do is simply ask, "What's next?".

The Ohio State basketball program has just received an interesting piece of news which is worth sharing. The commitment to play for the Buckeyes from A'mare Bynum, a four-star forward in the class of 2025 is one to highlight. That’s a significant plus for Coach Jake Diebler and all players in the team since Bynum has the ability to be an effective player with many capabilities. To understand this better, let us go to the most important information about what he means and what it stands for in the progress of Ohio State basketball.

The Decision

Bynum made his choice to join the Buckeyes public following a hectic fall that included official visits to a number of prestigious programs. The Omaha, Nebraska native, who played his senior season at Link Academy in Branson, Missouri, cited his strong bond with Coach Diebler as a key factor in his decision. "It’s been great. Ever since the summer he’s been talking to me pretty much every day, Facetiming me, doing whatever he can to get me, and it worked," Bynum said.

A Versatile Forward

Standing at 6'8" and weighing 210 lbs, Bynum is listed as a center but is expected to play as a power forward at Ohio State. One of his great assets is that he is versatile above all things. ‘‘Basically, I’ve always been able to do it all." He is a great asset to the club because of his ball handling, passing, and outside shooting skills.

On-Court Impact

Bynum showed his basketball potential, averaging 16 points and 8 rebounds per game for Mokan Elite in the Nike EYBL last summer. His energetic play and nonstop motor have caught the eye of many coaches and recruiters. "I see myself as a freshman coming in at the position and making a big impact for the team," Bynum said. "I could help the team out right away by stretching the floor out and being versatile."

Joining the Buckeyes

Bynum joins Richmond Heights, Ohio's four-star guard Dorian Jones as the second player in the 2025 class to pledge to Ohio State. Bynum's dedication is a big step in creating a good recruiting class, and the Buckeyes are anticipated to sign up to four players in this class.

Final Thoughts

What A’mare Bynum brings to the table is groundbreaking for Ohio State basketball. In fact, he is the perfect collegiate player for the Buckeyes due to his well-rounded nature, skill, and hardworking attitude. For us fans, we are hopeful that Bynum will step on the floor and make an impact right away ensuring the team’s ultimate success.

In a blistering hot weekend in fall, Ohio State University campus had a lot of life. The football team is getting ready for a highly anticipated game with Marshall in the grand Ohio Stadium. Just like that, the seats were quickly becoming occupied with fervent fans who were waiting eagerly to see the two teams clash against each other.

Meanwhile, on the other side of the campus, the basketball team was hosting two promising recruits, Niko Bundalo and Davion Hannah. Both players were sought after highly, placing them among the top 40 prospects and four-star recruits as recorded by the renowned 247Sports.com rankings. To these talented young athletes, the university’s great basketball tradition and modern basketball facilities were highly anticipated.

Ohio State vs Marshall Thundering Herd

The energy in the air at Ohio Stadium was electric as the football team took to the field; this could be heard over the whole campus in the form of the roaring crowd. The players were focused and determined to secure a victory, fueled by the support of their loyal fans.

Campus Tour and Horseshoe Atmosphere

While Niko Bundalo and Davion Hannah got shown around the basketball facilities, the chance for them to meet the coaching staff and mingle with players was availed to them. On the other hand, they could see themselves playing major roles in the future success of the team; they were wowed by how dedicated the school was to winning both academically and athletically.

As the football game unfolded with thrilling plays and intense moments, the recruits couldn't help but feel the energy reverberating through the campus. They knew that they wanted to be a part of such a vibrant and competitive athletic community.

Alex Smith from Upper Arlington has made a substantial move towards realizing his dream by pledging allegiance to Ohio State’s men’s basketball team. The 6-9 forward from Upper Arlington High School situated in Columbus, made this announcement through a Monday post on X which is quite important for him at this early stage of life.

Joining the 2026 Class

Smith's commitment makes him the second recruit in Ohio State's 2026 class, joining five-star point guard Marcus Johnson. This future star duo is anticipated to add more thrill and ability in the Buckeyes’ list of players. Head coach Jake Diebler showed his excitement for what’s ahead, as he has a considerable role in turning around the program.

A Dream Come True

“I have always been a Buckeye fan since I was able to walk and talk,” Smith aid to Eleven Warriors. “Going to OSU has always been my dream. The sensation that all the hard work I put in has finally bore fruit is quite surreal at the moment of my commitment, especially considering that this is where I have always wanted to play.”

The Journey to Commitment

Smith's decision came after a visit to Columbus this past weekend, one of many trips that solidified his choice. He met Marcus Johnson during his visit, which made him even more determined to become a Buckeye. Smith rejected offers from Cincinnati, Indiana, Nebraska and Xavier in favor of Ohio State that demonstrated his loyalty to the school as well as football program.

Building a Strong Future

With Smith and Johnson on board, Ohio State is looking to add one more prospect to their 2026 recruiting class. The Buckeyes also have a commitment from four-star shooting guard Dorian Jones in the 2025 class, indicating a bright future for the program.

Hope for the Program

Under Diebler's leadership, the Buckeyes are working hard to become contenders once again. The addition of talented players like Smith and Johnson brings renewed hope and excitement to Ohio State basketball fans.

Alex Smith's commitment is not just a personal milestone but a promising sign for the future of Ohio State basketball. As he prepares to don the scarlet and gray, fans eagerly anticipate the impact he will make on the court.

Philly was electric! Carmen’s Crew, those Ohio State guys, were going head-to-head with the tough Forever Coogs from Houston. With a million bucks on the line, you can bet the place was going crazy! Everyone in the Daskalakis Center was on the edge of their seat, waiting to see who'd come out on top.

A Clash of Titans

The Forever Coogs, a team with a storied history, boasted former Houston Cougars stars. Their athleticism and precision made them a force to be reckoned with. But Carmen's Crew, fueled by nostalgia and the promise of redemption, stood tall.

Sullinger's Heroics

Jared Sullinger, the heart and soul of Carmen's Crew, channeled his inner Buckeye. His post moves were poetry, each basket a tribute to Ohio State's legacy. The crowd roared as he spun past defenders, laying the ball in with finesse.

The Wesson Brothers Unleashed

Andre and Kaleb Wesson, inseparable on and off the court, anchored the defense. Andre's three-pointers rained down like meteors, while Kaleb patrolled the paint, swatting shots into oblivion. Their synergy was uncanny—a brotherly bond forged in scarlet and gray.

Target Score 68

What a thrilling finish! With a final score of 69–65 and a target score of 68, Carmen's Crew secured their victory against the Forever Coogs. The tension must have been palpable as they battled it out on the court.

This game was super intense. Every single point counted, and those final shots? Forget about it. You could’ve heard a pin drop in the place. Whether it was Sullinger’s clutch free throws or the Wesson brothers’ defensive prowess, the Buckeye faithful surely celebrated this hard-fought win.

Here’s to Carmen's Crew—a million-dollar triumph etched in Ohio State lore!

The Buckeyes just snagged a huge dude from Croatia to fill their last open spot for next season. Ivan Njegovan is a 7-foot-1 monster who's coming to Ohio State after killing it last year for KK Bosco in the Croatian pro league.

Bosco Shot Blocker

Yeah, this kid's a beast. Njegovan is only 19 but he was already cleaning the glass and blocking shots like crazy for Bosco. He averaged almost five boards and two blocks a game, and he was way better than his teammates at both. Seriously, he blocked like 40% of Bosco's shots all season!

Croatia U20 Team

Njegovan also played for Croatia's U20 team in a big international tournament last summer. He wasn't scoring a ton of points, but he was a real defensive beast out there.

Frontcourt Lineup

With a full four years of eligibility, Njegovan will compete for playing time behind Sean Stewart, Aaron Bradshaw, and Devin Royal in the frontcourt. Sophomore center Austin Parks will also be in the mix for minutes off the bench.

Under the Friday night lights of central Texas, where dreams seem to shine brighter than anything, Riley Pettijohn was a total stud. This five-star linebacker with a heart bigger than Texas itself had colleges lining up to win him over. Southern Cal, Texas, and even Texas A&M were all throwing offers at him, but there was just something about that Ohio State red and gray that called to him. And so, on a warm June afternoon, Riley Pettijohn made a decision that would echo through the hallowed halls of Ohio State University.

Recruitment Journey

Picture this: Riley, a lanky kid from Houston, sitting in his room, surrounded by letters from coaches. Each envelope held a promise—a chance to play under the bright lights, to chase glory. But one letter stood out. It smelled faintly of buckeye trees, and when he opened it, the words danced off the page. Ohio State wanted him. Not just as a player, but as a leader.

When Riley visited Ohio State for the official tour, it felt like he was stepping into a movie about legends. He could almost hear whispers of encouragement from Woody Hayes and Archie Griffin himself as he walked through the Horseshoe. That's what they called the stadium, a place where college football heroes are made. Riley felt it—the weight of tradition, the pull of destiny. And when Coach Day looked him in the eye and said, "We need you, Riley," he knew.

Pettijohn's Profile

Riley wasn't your typical linebacker. At nearly 6-foot-2 and 215 pounds, he moved like a gazelle. His speed was deceptive—a blur of scarlet and gray streaking across the field. National rankings placed him at No. 31 overall, and fourth among linebackers. But stats only told part of the story. Riley had grit—the kind forged on Texas high school fields, where the sun baked the grass and dreams hung heavy in the air.

Impact on Ohio State

The Buckeyes needed Riley. Their linebacker room faced a shortage of experience, and the coaches knew it. But it wasn't just about tackles and sacks. Riley brought something intangible—a fire that ignited others. He'd lead by example, push teammates to their limits, and remind them why they wore the Block O. The scarlet jersey would become his armor, and the Horseshoe his battleground.

Conclusion

So here we are, Ohio State faithful. Riley Pettijohn, the kid from Texas, is all in. His commitment isn't just about football; it's about legacy. When he steps onto that field, he carries the hopes of Buckeye Nation—the dreams of fans who bleed scarlet and gray. And as the sun sets over the Shoe, casting long shadows, we'll watch him chase glory. Because in Columbus, legends aren't born—they're forged, one tackle at a time.

Introduction

In the heart of Columbus, Ohio, where scarlet and gray run through veins like a shared secret, a seismic shift occurred. Maxwell Roy, a four-star defensive tackle from St. Joseph's Prep School in Philadelphia, made a decision that would echo across Buckeye Nation. The kid with a composite rating that could make even the most stoic coach crack a smile had chosen Ohio State. But this wasn't just about football; it was about family.

Background and Recruitment

So, Maxwell's story starts back in Philly, where cheesesteaks and his future were basically roommates. This dude was a giant teen, all muscle and ambition. Colleges came at him like crazy, coaches fighting over who he'd play for. Michigan, with its winged helmets and storied history, came calling. But so did Ohio State, with its Horseshoe and a promise of brotherhood.

Maxwell took official visits to both schools. Ann Arbor's autumn leaves whispered secrets, but Columbus's crisp air held something more. It was during a Buckeyes game, surrounded by fans who bled scarlet, that he felt it—the pull of camaraderie, the electricity of possibility.

The Decision

Imagine this: Maxwell's chilling in his room, an Ohio State flag hanging above his bunk. His mom, a super strong lady who raised him all by herself, is sitting right there with him. She's been working double shifts like crazy to keep food on the table, and now this big dude's future is, like, in his hands.

"Max," she asks, "what's your dream school?"

He thinks about the Horseshoe stadium, the crowd going nuts, and being part of a whole team of brothers. "Ohio State," he says. "I wanna be part of something bigger than myself."

Bam! Decision made. Easy as that. The kid from Philly became a Buckeye.

Relationship with Ohio State

Maxwell's commitment wasn't just about football. It was about Coach Day's late-night talks, the way he'd say, "Max, we're building more than a team—we're building men." It was about the strength coach who pushed him to his limits, the academic advisor who mapped out his future, and the janitor who'd been there since Woody Hayes prowled the sidelines.

He'd walk through the tunnel, touch the Block O, and know he was part of a lineage—a brotherhood that transcended wins and losses.

Teammates and Buckeye Connections

Isaiah West, his high school teammate, had committed too. They'd dreamed of this moment, two kids from Philly making waves in the Midwest. And there were others—Joey, the wide receiver with hands like glue, and Malik, the safety who'd hit you like a freight train. They'd all chosen Ohio State, drawn by something intangible—the magic of the Horseshoe, the whispers of legends past.

Ohio State's Recruiting Class

Ohio State basically hit the jackpot with Maxwell. They were already ranked number one in the country, all thanks to Coach Day's awesome plan. But forget fancy titles, this was about everyone being on the same page, like a family of football players. They'd have each other's backs, through crazy games and late-night cramming.

Big news for Ohio State football fans! Four-star defensive end Zion Grady just joined the Buckeyes! The 6-foot-4, 225-pound beast from Alabama made it official after visiting Columbus Ohio this past weekend. This is a big win for the Buckeyes!

The Journey Begins

Grady fell in love with Ohio State way back in May when he visited. He said it blew away all his other visits – the city was awesome, and the Buckeyes treated him like a superstar. No wonder he decided to join the team so fast!

A Perfect Fit

The Buckeyes want Grady to play defensive end on their team. It’s a perfect fit for him, and he’s already on board. But Grady isn't just thinking about himself - he's trying to convince his friend Malik Autry to join him at Ohio State!

Grady, as a weakside defensive end, brings explosive speed and agility off the edge. His ability to disrupt opposing quarterbacks on the field will be crucial at critical times in the season, especially on third downs and in the red zone.

The Buckeyes' Haul

With Grady's commitment, Ohio State's top-ranked 2025 recruiting class now boasts three talented defensive linemen. Alongside fellow defensive ends Zahir Mathis and London Merritt, Grady will be part of a formidable Rushmen unit under the guidance of Larry Johnson.

Grady’s commitment sends a strong signal to other recruits. His decision to choose Ohio State over other competitive programs reflects the Buckeyes’ passion and commitment to building a high-powered defense.