Ohio State University’s football program has made significant strides in securing top talent for its 2026 recruiting class. As of March 2025, the Buckeyes have secured commitments from five promising prospects, each poised to bolster various position groups. This article delves into these commitments, examining the players’ backgrounds, the roles they are expected to play, and the potential impact on Ohio State’s future roster.
1. Chris Henry Jr. – Wide Receiver
Chris Henry Jr., a four-star wide receiver, was among the earliest commitments for Ohio State’s 2026 class. Hailing from Cincinnati, Ohio, Henry Jr. is the son of the late Chris Henry, a former NFL wide receiver for the Cincinnati Bengals. Standing at 6’5″ and weighing 185 pounds, he possesses a rare combination of size and speed, making him a formidable deep-threat option. His commitment underscores Ohio State’s continued tradition of attracting elite wide receiver talent, following in the footsteps of recent standouts like Garrett Wilson and Chris Olave.
2. Jaeden Ricketts – Wide Receiver
Joining Henry Jr. in the receiving corps is four-star prospect Jaeden Ricketts from Fort Lauderdale, Florida. At 6’1″ and 190 pounds, Ricketts is known for his precise route-running and reliable hands. His versatility allows him to operate effectively both in the slot and on the outside, providing Ohio State with a dynamic offensive weapon. The addition of Ricketts, alongside Henry Jr., ensures that the Buckeyes’ aerial attack remains potent for years to come.
3. Corbyn Fordham – Tight End
On November 28, 2024, Ohio State secured a commitment from four-star tight end Corbyn Fordham out of Jacksonville, Florida. Fordham chose the Buckeyes over notable programs such as Georgia, Clemson, and Auburn. Standing at 6’4″ and weighing 220 pounds, he is ranked as the No. 15 tight end in the 2026 class. Fordham’s athleticism and lineage—his father, Todd Fordham, played nine seasons in the NFL—suggest a high ceiling for his development. His commitment adds depth to Ohio State’s tight end room, which is set to feature both veteran leadership and young talent in the coming season.
4. Jakob Weatherspoon – Athlete
Ohio State’s recruiting momentum continued with the addition of four-star athlete Jakob Weatherspoon from Avon, Ohio, on January 2, 2025. Weatherspoon, standing at 6’0″ and weighing 180 pounds, is versatile, with the potential to contribute on both sides of the ball. While he has experience as a wide receiver, his skill set suggests a future in the secondary, possibly as a cornerback or safety. Weatherspoon’s commitment highlights Ohio State’s emphasis on recruiting versatile athletes capable of filling multiple roles.
5. Immanuel “Manny” Iheanacho – Offensive Tackle
At just 16 years old, Immanuel “Manny” Iheanacho has become a viral sensation and a coveted football prospect due to his massive frame of 6’7″ and 340 pounds. Ranked as one of the top offensive tackles in the country, Iheanacho has already received offers from nearly 30 top Division I programs, including Ohio State. Hailing from Rockville, Maryland, and attending Georgetown Preparatory School, he has been instrumental in his team’s success and was named the Interstate Athletic Conference’s Offensive Player of the Year. Known for his powerful and dominant play, Iheanacho is seen as a potential immediate impact player in college with significant NFL Draft potential.
Position Group Analysis
- Wide Receiver: The commitments of Henry Jr. and Ricketts ensure that Ohio State’s tradition of fielding elite wide receivers continues. Their contrasting skill sets—Henry Jr.’s size and speed combined with Ricketts’ route-running precision—provide a balanced and dynamic receiving corps.
- Tight End: Fordham’s addition adds depth and versatility to the tight end position. His athleticism and NFL lineage suggest he could develop into a key contributor in both the passing and blocking schemes.
- Athlete/Defensive Back: Weatherspoon’s versatility offers Ohio State flexibility in addressing future needs. His potential in the secondary could bolster the Buckeyes’ defensive backfield, an area of focus in maintaining a robust defense.
- Offensive Line: While Iheanacho has not officially committed to Ohio State, his inclusion in the recruitment conversation underscores the Buckeyes’ intent to strengthen their offensive line. His massive frame and dominant play style could provide immediate impact, should he choose Ohio State.
Looking Ahead
Ohio State’s 2026 recruiting class is shaping up to be one of the nation’s best, reflecting the program’s commitment to excellence and strategic roster building. The Buckeyes continue to pursue other top-tier talents, including five-star running back Derek Cooper and five-star quarterback Jared Curtis. Cooper, standing at 6’1″ and weighing 200 pounds, is praised for his elite athleticism and versatility. He has amassed 905 rushing yards and 13 touchdowns during his junior year, leading his team to a state championship. Ohio State is among the top programs actively recruiting Cooper, with campus visits planned in the coming months.
Curtis, a dual-threat quarterback from Nashville, Tennessee, has reopened his recruitment after decommitting from Georgia. Ohio State is leading the charge to secure his commitment, with a visit scheduled next month. Curtis has thrown for over 2,500 yards and 25 touchdowns as a sophomore, showcasing significant talent and potential.
Additionally, the Buckeyes are in contention for the nation’s top overall recruit, offensive lineman Jackson Cantwell. Standing at 6’8″ and weighing 315 pounds, Cantwell has narrowed his choices to include Ohio State, with official visits