Ohio State has landed another massive addition to its 2025 recruiting class, as four-star interior offensive lineman Max Riley has officially committed to the Buckeyes. Riley, one of the most sought-after offensive linemen in the country, chose Ohio State over a strong list of programs, including Michigan, Penn State, Alabama, and Georgia. His commitment gives the Buckeyes yet another elite prospect in what is shaping up to be a top-tier recruiting class.
Why Riley Chose Ohio State
Hailing from Nashville, Tennessee, Riley has been a dominant force in the trenches throughout his high school career. His combination of size, strength, and technique made him one of the most coveted interior offensive linemen in the country. Measuring 6-foot-5 and 310 pounds, Riley has the athleticism and physicality that Ohio State values in its linemen.
During his recruitment, Riley took multiple visits to Columbus and developed a strong connection with Ohio State’s coaching staff, particularly offensive line coach Justin Frye. He was drawn to Ohio State’s tradition of producing NFL-caliber offensive linemen and was impressed by the family-oriented culture within the program.
In his commitment announcement, Riley stated:
“Ohio State felt like home from the start. The coaches, the players, and the fanbase all made me feel like I was part of something special. I want to be developed at the highest level, and I believe Ohio State gives me the best chance to succeed both on and off the field.”
What Riley Brings to the Buckeyes
Riley is regarded as one of the most technically sound linemen in the 2025 class. His ability to anchor in pass protection and create lanes in the run game makes him an ideal fit for Ohio State’s offensive scheme. He possesses a strong punch, quick footwork, and a high football IQ, allowing him to handle various defensive fronts.
Recruiting analysts have praised Riley for his versatility, as he has the ability to play guard or center at the next level. His ability to move defenders off the ball and maintain leverage against top competition makes him a future impact player for the Buckeyes.
One of the key reasons Ohio State pursued Riley so aggressively was his mentality and work ethic. He is known for his relentless approach in the weight room and on the practice field, traits that align perfectly with Ohio State’s tough, physical style of play.
Ohio State’s Recruiting Momentum Continues
With Riley’s commitment, Ohio State continues to build what could be one of the top offensive line classes in the country. The Buckeyes have already secured commitments from other elite linemen, and Riley’s addition further strengthens the foundation of the class.
Head coach Ryan Day and his staff have made it a priority to win battles in the trenches, and landing a talent like Riley is a significant step in that direction. Ohio State fans can expect him to develop into a key contributor for the Buckeyes as they continue their pursuit of national championships.
What’s Next for Ohio State?
The Buckeyes are far from finished on the recruiting trail, as they are still in the mix for several other high-profile offensive linemen. With Riley now in the fold, Ohio State’s focus shifts to adding more elite talent to complement him and ensuring they continue to dominate the line of scrimmage in the future.The