In a massive recruiting victory that has sent shockwaves throughout the college football world, the Ohio State Buckeyes have landed a commitment from one of the most sought-after wide receivers in recent memory. This Thursday, the Buckeyes secured the pledge of a five-star recruit who was previously committed to the Oklahoma Sooners, choosing Ohio State over other blue-blood programs like Notre Dame and Texas. But what truly makes this commitment headline-worthy isn’t just the star rating—it’s the history behind it.
The recruit, known widely in the high school football world for his elite route-running, explosive speed, and game-changing presence on the field, had been a long-time Oklahoma commit. For months, it appeared as though the Sooners had him locked down. Notre Dame made a strong push, and Texas made things interesting late in the process, but in the end, it was Ohio State that pulled off a dramatic, late-stage flip. And this isn’t just another five-star addition to the Buckeyes’ already loaded WR room—this one carries significant emotional weight.
This recruit’s journey is deeply tied to Ohio State wide receiver coach Brian Hartline, who has built a reputation as the best WR developer in college football. Hartline has mentored multiple first-round NFL talents like Garrett Wilson, Chris Olave, Jaxon Smith-Njigba, and Marvin Harrison Jr. But it turns out that this particular recruit has had a long-standing personal connection to Hartline that dates back years—one forged not just through recruiting, but through a shared history involving the player’s late older brother.
The recruit’s older brother was a former high school standout who trained briefly with Hartline during off-season camps and had dreams of playing for the Buckeyes before tragically passing away due to a medical condition during his junior year of high school. Since then, Hartline maintained a relationship with the family, offering mentorship and support that went beyond football. As this younger recruit began rising through the high school ranks, it became clear that he wasn’t just playing for himself—he was playing to fulfill the legacy of his brother.
This connection to Hartline, combined with Ohio State’s track record of producing NFL-ready receivers, ultimately sealed the deal. The recruit reportedly informed Hartline of his decision late Wednesday night before making it official Thursday morning, sending fans and recruiting analysts into a frenzy.
What makes this move even more significant is how it shakes up the recruiting landscape. Oklahoma loses a top-tier talent who was once considered the cornerstone of their upcoming class. Notre Dame and Texas both invested heavily in his recruitment, with visits, NIL pitches, and relationships built over many months, only to come up short. For Ohio State, however, this is yet another feather in the cap of a program that continues to dominate at the receiver position nationally.
This commitment pushes Ohio State’s 2025 recruiting class into elite territory, and it’s a testament to the power of relationships in recruiting—not just sales pitches, facilities, or NIL money. Sometimes, a deeper bond makes all the difference.
As Ohio State fans celebrate, there’s a sense that this isn’t just another win on the recruiting trail—this is a story about legacy, loyalty, and love for the game. The Buckeyes didn’t just land a player; they welcomed a family that has long dreamed of seeing their son wear the scarlet and gray. And for the recruit, it’s not just about football—it’s about honoring the past while carving out a future in Columbus.