Eric Boggs
The Wilhelm name is once again part of Ohio State football history. On Friday, three-star offensive lineman Mason Wilhelm — son of Buckeye legend and 2002 national champion Matt Wilhelm — announced his commitment to Ohio State, fulfilling a lifelong dream to wear the scarlet and gray.
Ranked as the No. 1,276 overall prospect in the 2026 class, Wilhelm flipped from North Carolina just hours after receiving an offer from Ohio State on Thursday night. For Mason, the decision was easy — a chance to follow in his father’s footsteps and become a Buckeye was something he’d envisioned since childhood.
“I’ve had being a Buckeye in the back of my head for a long time,” Wilhelm told 247Sports. “I didn’t want to waste time or drag it out.”
At 6-foot-4 and 290 pounds, Wilhelm plays right guard and defensive tackle for St. Edward High School in Lakewood, Ohio, one of the state’s premier football programs. This fall, he’s helped lead the Eagles to an 8-2 record and into the OHSAA playoffs. Focused on finishing his high school season strong, Wilhelm said he didn’t want his recruitment to be a distraction from his team’s championship goals. “I need to win a state title,” he said. “We have games to still win.”
Wilhelm’s commitment gives Ohio State five offensive linemen in the 2026 class, joining fellow in-state talents Sam Greer, Maxwell Riley, and Landry Brede, along with Tucker Smith from Arizona. He also becomes the 23rd overall member of the class — and the second player in as many days to flip to Ohio State, following four-star cornerback Jay Timmons, who decommitted from Florida State.
Ohio State’s offer to Wilhelm came shortly after Aaron Thomas decommitted earlier in the week, opening a spot for the Buckeyes to reinforce their offensive line depth. Offensive line coach Tyler Bowen moved quickly, securing a commitment from Wilhelm less than 24 hours after extending the offer.
While Mason’s future now lies in Columbus, his story is deeply rooted in his father’s Buckeye legacy. Matt Wilhelm, a consensus All-American and captain of Ohio State’s 2002 national championship team, went on to play eight seasons in the NFL, including a Super Bowl victory with the Green Bay Packers in 2010. Today, he’s known not only for his football success but also for his advocacy for player safety and his work coaching young athletes — including Mason.
Matt has been a vocal proponent of safer practice technology, such as the Guardian Cap, a padded helmet cover designed to reduce head impact. “As a coach and as a dad, I think all kids should be wearing a Guardian Cap,” Matt said. “When I learned about it, I presented it to my son — not as a mandate, but as a choice.”
Mason has embraced the same mindset his father instilled in him — preparation, discipline, and a love for the game. “He helps me be ready for anything that could happen injury-wise and to stay healthy,” Mason explained. “When I see programs using Guardian Caps, I know it’s about making practice better and safer.”
For Buckeye Nation, Mason’s commitment represents more than just another addition to the 2026 recruiting class — it’s the continuation of a proud legacy. The Wilhelm name, synonymous with toughness and championship pedigree, is returning home to Columbus, and once again, a Wilhelm will suit up for the scarlet and gray.
