Eric Boggs
With the 2026 recruiting cycle heating up, Ohio State remains firmly in the hunt for several elite five-star prospects. Though competition is fierce and NIL dynamics are constantly shifting the landscape, the Buckeyes have positioned themselves as a legitimate contender for a handful of game-changing talents. From trench warriors to skill position stars, Ryan Day and his staff still have several big swings left at the recruiting plate—and Buckeye Nation should be paying close attention.
Let’s begin with the most talked-about name in the group: Felix Ojo, the towering 6’6”, 275-pound offensive tackle from Texas. Ranked seventh nationally and the second-highest tackle in the 247Sports composite, Ojo is a foundational lineman every program covets. He’s set to visit Columbus next weekend before heading to Michigan, Texas, and Oklahoma in June. While most experts see Texas as the front-runner—especially given their aggressive NIL stance—Ohio State isn’t going to enter a financial arms race for an unproven freshman. The Buckeyes prioritize development and long-term success, especially in the trenches. If Ojo values coaching pedigree and NFL preparation over upfront cash, Ohio State could still surprise. Still, as of now, he appears to be Texas’ to lose.
Next up is Xavier Griffin, a versatile 6’3”, 200-pound linebacker out of Gainesville, Georgia. He’s currently ranked 27th nationally and is the second-highest-rated linebacker in the class. Griffin will be in Columbus on May 30 before heading to Alabama, Texas, Florida State, and USC in June. Though Alabama is the perceived leader, the Buckeyes have a real shot here. If Griffin connects with James Laurinaitis and is intrigued by Ohio State’s defensive philosophy under Matt Patricia, a serious push could be made. The visit to Columbus could be pivotal—this one isn’t over yet.
At safety, Bralan Womack is the crown jewel. The top-ranked safety in the country and 21st overall in the 247 composite, Womack is a dynamic athlete from Flowood, Mississippi. His final visit will be to Ohio State on June 20, after stops at Florida, Texas A&M, and Auburn. Here’s the good news for Buckeye fans: Womack is currently viewed as an Ohio State lean, and the staff is pulling out all the stops to secure him. He has the talent to contribute early, and the Buckeyes see him as a centerpiece of their 2026 class. Confidence is high in Columbus, and rightfully so—there’s a strong chance Womack dons scarlet and gray.
The most exciting name in the backfield is Savion Hiter, the No. 1 running back in the class and ranked 17th overall. At 5’11” and 200 pounds, the Virginia native is a powerful, multi-dimensional runner. Ohio State will host Hiter on May 30 before he visits Georgia, Michigan, and Tennessee. Though Tennessee insiders are confident, Ohio State is making Hiter the focal point of next weekend’s visit slate. The Buckeyes want two running backs in this class, and Hiter sits firmly at the top of their board. If he feels the fit, Columbus could be his future home—and just maybe, he could help sway other top targets in the process.
Lastly, there’s Tyler Atkinson, the top linebacker/edge rusher in the nation and ninth overall in the 247 composite. The Georgia native is currently a strong lean to stay in-state with the Bulldogs, and while Ohio State is among the programs chasing him, the odds aren’t great. The Buckeyes haven’t been able to lock in a visit yet, though Clemson has one scheduled. While there’s technically a chance, Atkinson feels like a long shot unless something drastically changes in his recruitment.
So, where does that leave the Buckeyes? If Ohio State lands Bralan Womack and Savion Hiter, they’ve already had a strong finish. Add Xavier Griffin, and the Buckeyes are knocking on the door of a No. 1 recruiting class. Should Felix Ojo or Tyler Atkinson join them, it would be nothing short of recruiting magic. While expectations should be tempered on those two fronts, there’s no denying that Ryan Day and his staff are in position to make noise.
The month of June will be crucial. With official visits lined up and relationships being solidified, the future of Ohio State’s 2026 class could be determined in the coming weeks. For fans of the Scarlet and Gray, the message is simple: there’s more than just a chance—there’s real momentum building in Columbus.
