Ohio State continues to assert its dominance on the recruiting trail, securing commitments from two of the nation’s most promising prospects, Zion Elee and Jackson Cantwell. These additions represent a major win for the Buckeyes as they look to maintain their status as a perennial powerhouse in college football.
Elee, a highly touted defensive lineman, and Cantwell, the No. 1 overall prospect in the 2026 class and a five-star offensive tackle, announced their commitments to Ohio State following official visits to Columbus. Their decisions further cement Ohio State’s ability to attract elite talent and reinforce its roster for years to come.
Zion Elee, a four-star recruit from Florida, has earned national recognition for his explosive play along the defensive line. At 6-foot-5 and 285 pounds, Elee combines size, speed, and technique to wreak havoc on opposing offenses. Known for his ability to collapse the pocket and disrupt both the run and pass game, Elee is expected to make an immediate impact at the collegiate level.
During his junior season, Elee recorded 15 sacks and 24 tackles for loss, showcasing his dominance against top-tier competition. His relentless motor and football IQ have drawn comparisons to NFL stars such as Chris Jones and Jeffrey Simmons.
Elee cited Ohio State’s coaching staff and tradition of developing NFL-caliber defensive linemen as key factors in his decision. “Ohio State felt like home from the moment I stepped on campus,” Elee said. “Coach Larry Johnson’s track record speaks for itself, and I know he can help me reach my full potential.”
At 6-foot-8 and 320 pounds, Jackson Cantwell has already been labeled as a generational offensive tackle prospect. Hailing from Missouri, Cantwell has been the subject of intense recruiting battles among college football’s elite programs. His combination of size, strength, and agility makes him a nightmare for edge rushers and a cornerstone for any offensive line.
Cantwell’s decision to commit to Ohio State is a testament to the program’s ability to recruit top talent nationally. The Buckeyes’ offensive line coach, Justin Frye, played a pivotal role in securing Cantwell’s commitment, emphasizing the opportunity to compete at the highest level while developing into an NFL-ready tackle.
“I’ve always admired Ohio State’s dominance in the trenches,” Cantwell said. “They’ve produced so many great linemen, and I want to be a part of that legacy. The coaches, the facilities, and the culture are second to none.”
Cantwell, who is also an accomplished shot-putter, brings a unique blend of athleticism and power to the field. His agility and footwork have been compared to former Ohio State standout Taylor Decker, while his physicality resembles that of NFL All-Pro Trent Williams.
The commitments of Elee and Cantwell mark a significant boost to Ohio State’s 2026 recruiting class, which is shaping up to be one of the best in recent memory. Both players address critical needs for the Buckeyes and bring a winning mentality that aligns with the program’s standards.
Elee will bolster a defensive line that thrives on applying pressure and creating turnovers, while Cantwell is poised to anchor the offensive line for years to come. Together, they form a foundation that could lead Ohio State to new heights on the field.
Buckeye Nation has erupted with excitement following the announcements. Social media platforms have been flooded with messages celebrating the commitments, with fans expressing confidence in the team’s future. National analysts have also taken note, calling Ohio State’s recruiting efforts a “masterclass” and predicting long-term success for the program.
The commitments of Zion Elee and Jackson Cantwell are just the beginning for Ohio State’s 2026 recruiting class. With momentum on their side, the Buckeyes are expected to land even more elite talent in the coming months.
For head coach Ryan Day and his staff, the focus now shifts to integrating these new recruits into the program’s culture and preparing them to contribute to Ohio State’s championship aspirations.
Elee and Cantwell have made their intentions clear: they want to win and leave a lasting legacy in Columbus. With their talent and work ethic, they are well on their way to achieving greatness both on and off the field.
As Ohio State continues to attract top-tier talent, the program’s future looks as bright as ever. The commitments of Elee and Cantwell not only strengthen the team but also send a powerful message to the rest of college football: the Buckeyes are here to dominate.