Eric Boggs
Ohio State hosted the second of four critical recruiting weekends in June, welcoming ten official visitors from the class of 2025. This number matches the turnout from the first weekend. The official visitors included current Ohio State commits:
- Four-star wide receiver De’zie Jones
- Four-star linebacker Eli Lee
- Four-star safety Cody Haddad
The seven uncommitted recruits were:
- Four-star safety Faheem Delane
- Four-star defensive tackle Trajen Odom
- Four-star defensive end Damien Shanklin
- Four-star wide receiver Quincy Porter
- Four-star offensive tackle Jackson Lloyd
- Three-star offensive lineman Andrew Stargel
- Three-star offensive lineman Jayvon McFadden
Among the uncommitted recruits, Delane was the most highly regarded, and by Sunday afternoon, he committed to Ohio State. The Maryland prospect is a fringe five-star safety, ranked No. 2 in the country by 247Sports. Delane is considered a versatile athlete capable of playing in multiple positions, potentially even linebacker, which will provide Defensive Coordinator Jim Knowles with additional flexibility.
Porter’s visit was another crucial moment for the Buckeyes, as his recruitment is primarily between Ohio State, Michigan, and Penn State. Brian Hartline has made Porter a top priority, and the staff ensured that the New Jersey product felt valued during his visit.
Shanklin and Odom were notable defensive linemen on campus, keeping Larry Johnson busy. Currently, Ohio State is favored to land Odom, with USC, UCLA, and Oregon as the main competitors. LSU is likely leading for Shanklin, but with his commitment not expected until late August, Ohio State has time to sway his decision.
It was also a significant weekend for offensive line coach Justin Frye, who hosted three priority linemen: Lloyd, Stargel, and McFadden. Ohio State is relatively new to Lloyd’s recruitment, but the California prospect has included OSU in his top six schools and is considering their offer seriously. Alabama is currently favored for Lloyd, but Ohio State made a significant impact during his visit.
Stargel and McFadden, though rated as three-star prospects, are considered essential for Ohio State’s class. McFadden’s only scheduled official visit is to Columbus, which bodes well for Ohio State’s chances of landing him. Stargel has another official visit set for Kentucky on June 21, ahead of his July 4 commitment date, but Ohio State remains confident in its ability to secure his commitment.
Stay tuned to The OHIO Podcast for comprehensive recruiting news and updates from the Woody Hayes Athletic Center.
