Great Deal: 2026 4-Star Safety Zech Fort Chooses Ohio State, Commits “With Passion Till Death”
In a major announcement for Ohio State football, 2026 4-star safety Zech Fort has officially committed to the Buckeyes, declaring that he is “committed with passion till death.” The highly touted defensive prospect, who stands 6-foot-2 and weighs 195 pounds, made his decision public after a lengthy recruitment process that saw him field offers from some of the nation’s top programs. His commitment to Ohio State is not only a significant win for head coach Ryan Day and defensive coordinator Jim Knowles but also a statement of loyalty and belief in the Buckeyes’ football culture.
Zech Fort has quickly risen through the ranks as one of the top recruits in the 2026 class, earning recognition for his combination of size, athleticism, and football IQ. As a safety, Fort has shown exceptional versatility, excelling in both pass coverage and run support. His ability to read plays, track the ball, and deliver hard-hitting tackles has made him one of the most sought-after defensive players in the country.
Hailing from a well-respected high school program, Fort has always been a leader on the field. His aggressive playing style, coupled with his leadership and determination, has made him an instant standout. Fort’s development over the past few years has caught the attention of college programs across the country, but it was Ohio State that ultimately won out in the recruiting battle.
Ohio State has long been a powerhouse in college football, and its reputation for developing elite defensive talent is unmatched. For Zech Fort, the decision to commit to the Buckeyes was influenced by a number of factors, including the program’s rich history, its coaching staff, and its unwavering commitment to excellence. Fort made it clear that he saw Ohio State as more than just a football program—it was a family.
“Ohio State is a family, and I’m honored to be part of that family,” Fort said in an emotional statement following his commitment. “From the moment I stepped on campus, I knew this was where I wanted to be. The coaches, the players, the entire staff—everyone welcomed me with open arms, and I feel like I belong here. I’m committed to this program with passion till death. I’m ready to give everything I have to help bring championships to Ohio State.”
For Fort, the Ohio State family was a key factor in his decision. He was drawn to the tight-knit culture of the program and the genuine relationships he built with coaches and players during his visits. The sense of belonging he felt made Ohio State the ideal place for him to develop both as a player and a person. The opportunity to learn from the best and contribute to a legacy of success at Ohio State is something Fort couldn’t pass up.
Zech Fort’s decision to commit to Ohio State has enormous implications for the program’s defensive future. Under defensive coordinator Jim Knowles, Ohio State has built a defense that is fast, physical, and opportunistic, and Fort is a perfect fit for this system. His ability to cover ground quickly and read the game makes him an ideal safety in a defense that thrives on creating turnovers and disrupting opposing offenses.
The Buckeyes have a storied history of producing top-tier defensive backs, and Fort’s commitment further strengthens their defensive backfield. With his combination of size and speed, Fort is capable of playing a variety of roles in Ohio State’s defense, whether it’s covering wide receivers, stepping up to stop the run, or making game-changing plays in the passing game. His skills will undoubtedly add depth and talent to an already talented group of defensive backs.
Fort’s playmaking ability and versatility are qualities that will make an immediate impact when he arrives in Columbus. His physicality and instincts will help Ohio State compete at the highest level, and his presence on the field will give the Buckeyes an added dimension on defense.
One of the most striking aspects of Fort’s commitment is his emphasis on passion and loyalty. In a world where college football recruiting is constantly evolving, and transfers are more common than ever, Fort’s unwavering dedication to Ohio State stands out. His statement that he is committed to the program “till death” demonstrates the depth of his belief in the Buckeyes and their ability to help him achieve his goals both on and off the field.
“I’m not just choosing a football team; I’m choosing a family,” Fort explained. “I know Ohio State will help me become the best player I can be, and I’m committed to giving my all to this program. I want to help bring championships to Ohio State and leave my mark on this program. This isn’t just about football—it’s about being part of something bigger than myself.”
This deep sense of commitment and loyalty to Ohio State will serve as an example for future recruits and current players alike. Fort’s passion for the program is evident, and his dedication to the team will undoubtedly have a positive impact on the culture at Ohio State.
With Fort’s commitment, Ohio State is further solidifying its place as a powerhouse in college football. The Buckeyes continue to attract top-tier talent, and Fort’s decision to join the program highlights the appeal of Ohio State’s winning culture, strong coaching staff, and commitment to player development. As Fort progresses through his career at Ohio State, he is poised to become one of the premier defensive players in the nation.
The Buckeyes’ defense will benefit greatly from having Fort on the roster. His leadership, physicality, and football IQ will make him a key contributor as Ohio State continues its quest for national championships. Fans are already excited about what Fort will bring to the table, and expectations are high for his impact on the field.
Zech Fort’s commitment to Ohio State represents a major win for the Buckeyes and further cements their status as one of the top programs in the country. His passion, loyalty, and football IQ make him an ideal fit for Ohio State’s defensive system, and his presence will be felt for years to come. As Fort continues to grow as a player, Ohio State fans can look forward to seeing one of the top safeties in the 2026 class don the scarlet and gray and make an immediate impact on the field.
With his commitment to Ohio State “till death,” Zech Fort’s future is bright, and the Buckeyes are poised for even greater success with him on their roster.