Eric Boggs
Ohio State head coach Ryan Day expressed excitement and pride as he reflected on the Buckeyes’ 2024 recruiting class during a press conference following National Signing Day. The class, which Day described as “one of the best in the country,” is headlined by high-profile commitments and marked by a strong sense of loyalty and camaraderie among the signees.
Day highlighted the importance of loyalty in assembling this group, noting that many players committed early and remained steadfast despite the ever-changing dynamics of college recruiting, including NIL opportunities and transfer portal activity.
“It starts off with loyalty,” Day said. “A lot of these guys have been leaders in the class, and their families have done a great job of helping them stay committed. We’ve also got eight guys from Ohio, which is significant.”
Offensively, quarterback Tavien St. Clair stood out as a key leader in the class. A Bellefontaine, Ohio native, St. Clair has been a frequent presence at Ohio State, attending practices and games throughout the recruiting process.
“He knows what he’s stepping into because he’s been around the facility so much,” Day said. “He’s going to come in ready to compete.”
The Buckeyes signed 25 players in total, addressing key needs across multiple positions. The class includes a mix of in-state talent and national recruits, as Ohio State continues to attract elite prospects from across the country.
Day acknowledged that the offensive line remains an area of focus. The Buckeyes signed three linemen but will look to add depth through retention and the transfer portal.
“We have to make sure we have the numbers and depth that we need,” Day said. “It’s a different era in roster management, and we’ll explore all avenues to get there.”
The defensive line, a priority with several players potentially leaving after the season, received a boost with the additions of Trajan McCoy and Max Gilbert, among others. Day praised their versatility and potential to contribute early.
Day emphasized the role of summer camps in identifying talent, pointing out that several signees earned offers after strong camp performances.
“When you get guys in camp, you get to see them live and in competition,” he said. “You rarely miss on guys like that because you know exactly what you’re getting.”
The Buckeyes also prioritized adding versatile players, such as running back Turbo Rogers, who can contribute in multiple roles.
“He’s a hybrid guy who can line up as a receiver, return kicks, and play in the backfield,” Day explained. “In today’s game, having players who can do multiple jobs is increasingly valuable.”
Day credited both the players and their families for maintaining stability throughout the process. He also praised his first-year assistant coaches for their efforts in recruiting and development, highlighting contributions from linebackers coach James Laurinaitis, running backs coach Carlos Locklyn, and defensive backs coach Tim Walton.
“The relationships our coaches built were key,” Day said. “They’ve done an excellent job evaluating and bringing in top talent.”
As the Buckeyes prepare for the 2025 season, this recruiting class represents a blend of immediate contributors and long-term developmental prospects. For Day, the loyalty and cohesion within the group set it apart.
“This is an excellent class that addressed a lot of our needs,” Day said. “The camaraderie they built during the recruiting process will be a big part of their success here.”
With a strong foundation in place, Ohio State’s future looks as bright as ever.
