Eric Boggs
As Ohio State continues its relentless pursuit of top-tier talent, the Buckeyes face a unique challenge in the 2026 quarterback recruiting cycle. With back-to-back five-star commitments in Julian Sayin (2024) and Tavien St. Clair (2025), and another five-star already secured in 2027’s Brady Edmonds, Ohio State’s ability to land a third consecutive elite quarterback remains in question.
The reality of modern college football—shaped by NIL deals and the ever-present transfer portal—has made it increasingly difficult for programs to stockpile elite talent at a single position. Highly ranked quarterbacks want immediate playing time, and Ohio State’s depth chart may present a barrier rather than an incentive. Additionally, the departure of former quarterbacks coach Chip Kelly has left new coach Billy Fessler working to establish relationships with recruits in a competitive landscape.
Despite these challenges, Ohio State has identified several top prospects for the 2026 class. The highest-ranked target, Ryder Lyons, a 6’2.5”, 215-pound quarterback from Folsom, California, has impressive numbers, including 3,011 yards and 46 touchdowns last season. However, with his older brother at USC and the Trojans leading his recruitment, the Buckeyes face an uphill battle.
Another top-tier quarterback, Jared Curtis, a 6’4”, 225-pound prospect from Nashville Christian School, is currently the No. 1 quarterback in the class according to 247Sports. While Ohio State remains in the mix, SEC powers such as Georgia and Alabama appear to be in the driver’s seat.
A more realistic target for the Buckeyes is Brady Smigiel of Newbury Park, California. The 6’5”, 205-pound quarterback recently decommitted from Florida State, opening the door for Ohio State to make a strong push. His combination of size and arm strength makes him a compelling prospect for the Buckeyes’ offense.
Among all available quarterbacks, one name stands out as a potential game-changer for Ohio State—Bowe Bentley. The 6’2”, 200-pound dual-threat quarterback from Celina, Texas, led his team to a 16-0 record and a state title while racking up 4,200 total yards and 63 touchdowns. Despite being ranked only 245th nationally, Bentley’s late-blooming talent and athleticism make him a prime candidate for the Buckeyes to pursue aggressively.
Other names in contention include Brady Palmer, a 6’3”, 195-pound prospect from San Diego, and Ohio native Nathan Bernhard, a 6’5”, 227-pound quarterback from Ashland. While neither player boasts five-star credentials, both offer strong developmental upside and could provide valuable depth in a stacked quarterback room.
Ultimately, Ohio State faces a complex equation in its 2026 quarterback recruiting efforts. While the Buckeyes may struggle to land another five-star recruit, finding the right fit—whether a high-upside prospect like Bentley or a steady, in-state presence like Bernhard—will be key to maintaining depth and stability at the position. With Ryan Day and his staff navigating these hurdles, Ohio State’s quarterback future remains a compelling storyline in the ever-evolving landscape of college football recruiting.
