The Buckeyes have struck gold again on the recruiting trail.
In a major shake-up to the 2026 college football recruiting landscape, 5-star safety Bralan Womack, the No. 1 safety in the country for the class, has officially flipped his commitment to Ohio State following a recent visit to Columbus. Womack’s decision marks a massive win for Ryan Day and his staff, as the Buckeyes continue to build one of the most elite recruiting classes in the nation.
Womack, a 6-foot-2, 190-pound dynamic defensive back out of Shreveport, Louisiana, had previously been committed to LSU — a decision that sent shockwaves when it was first made, given the national battle for his services. But after an official visit to Ohio State this past weekend, Womack announced on social media that he was decommitting from LSU and pledging to the Buckeyes.
“After deep reflection, prayer, and great conversations with my family, I’ve decided to flip my commitment to The Ohio State University,” Womack wrote in a statement. “This decision is about development, education, legacy — and Ohio State checks every box.”
Buckeyes Leave Lasting Impression
The visit to Columbus appears to have been a turning point for Womack. Sources close to his recruitment say the Buckeyes rolled out the red carpet, allowing him and his family to engage directly with the coaching staff, tour the facilities, and understand the academic and athletic vision at Ohio State.
A key part of the visit included a long sit-down with new defensive coordinator Jim Knowles and safeties coach Perry Eliano, who outlined a detailed plan for Womack’s role in the defense. The staff emphasized Womack’s versatility — his ability to play deep coverage, step into the box, and even match up with receivers in man coverage — as a major reason they viewed him as a cornerstone for the 2026 class.
Womack also spent time with current players, including fellow Louisiana native Caleb Downs, now a rising star in the Buckeyes secondary. That connection reportedly made a strong impact, showing Womack how quickly he could adapt and thrive in the Ohio State culture.
A Game-Changer in the Secondary
Womack’s commitment is more than just a recruiting victory — it’s a future-shaping addition to the Buckeyes’ defense.
Rated as the top safety in the nation by multiple recruiting services, Womack is widely viewed as a once-in-a-generation talent. His combination of elite athleticism, football IQ, and ball-hawking instincts has drawn comparisons to NFL standouts like Derwin James and Minkah Fitzpatrick.
Last season, Womack recorded over 80 tackles, 6 interceptions, 4 forced fumbles, and a pair of defensive touchdowns — all while leading his team to a state title appearance. He’s known for his physicality, leadership, and a relentless motor that has made him a nightmare for opposing quarterbacks.
His presence in Ohio State’s defensive backfield could be a game-changer as the Buckeyes look to reestablish themselves as DBU and return to national championship contention.
A Major Recruiting Win
Flipping a 5-star, No. 1-ranked safety — especially from the SEC’s backyard — is no small feat. It sends a loud message that Ohio State remains one of the premier destinations for elite defensive talent.
With Womack now in the fold, the Buckeyes move up even higher in the 2026 recruiting class rankings and solidify what could be a generational group on the defensive side of the ball. He joins a class already headlined by 5-star edge rusher Treyvon West and elite cornerback Camron Mills, forming the core of what could become one of the most feared defenses in college football.
Final Thoughts
Ohio State fans have every reason to celebrate. Bralan Womack’s decision is about more than just a commitment — it’s about the Buckeyes beating out top-tier SEC programs, building trust with one of the nation’s best players, and continuing to develop a brand that resonates with elite talent across the country.