Eric Boggs
Ohio State’s recruiting momentum surged forward on Tuesday as five-star wide receiver Chris Henry Jr. reaffirmed his commitment to the Buckeyes, putting an end to speculation about potential flips. The California-based standout had been scheduled for official visits to Oregon, USC, and Miami, with the Ducks making a particularly strong push for his commitment. However, Henry made it clear that he is fully committed to Ohio State and will now only take an official visit to Columbus this summer.
Ranked as the No. 9 overall prospect in the 2026 class, Henry has consistently emphasized his dedication to Ohio State. Last summer, he expressed confidence in his decision, acknowledging the recruiting process but reiterating that the Buckeyes were always his top choice. “I’m always locked in,” Henry said at the time. “I’m just still enjoying the process of just being a recruit, because this is only happening one time. The other schools, I tell them, like, ‘Yeah, it’s going to be really hard to try and get me to flip, because it’s Ohio State.’ This is where I want to be.”
Henry’s recommitment now positions him as a key figure in Ohio State’s 2026 recruiting class, much like Devin Sanchez was for the 2025 cycle. With his decision locked in, Henry will be a major peer recruiter, helping to shape the Buckeyes’ future roster by attracting other top talents.
The news of Henry shutting down his recruitment came on April 1st, leading some fans to question whether it was an April Fool’s prank. However, multiple sources have confirmed the legitimacy of his announcement. While programs like Oregon and Miami will likely continue their pursuit, offering lucrative NIL deals, Henry appears set on donning the scarlet and gray.
The impact of Henry’s decision extends beyond Ohio State’s commitment list, as his presence at Mater Dei High School in California brings further recruiting intrigue. His teammate, Kayden Dixon-Wyatt, another highly touted wide receiver, is also considering the Buckeyes. The 6-foot-2, 180-pound prospect is ranked 142nd nationally and holds offers from Alabama, USC, Texas, and Oregon, among others. He has scheduled an official visit to Ohio State for May 30. A potential package deal with Henry Jr. and Dixon-Wyatt would be a significant win for Ohio State’s offense in the coming years.
Ohio State fans are also looking forward to the annual spring showcase tailgate, where they can meet former Buckeyes, win prizes, and support charitable efforts such as book donations for Second and Seven. The fan appreciation event will take place near the French Field House, offering an opportunity to connect with the team and fellow supporters.
With Henry’s commitment solidified and key recruiting battles still ongoing, Ohio State’s 2026 class is shaping up to be one of the most exciting in recent memory. The Buckeyes continue to solidify their status as a powerhouse in college football recruiting.
