Eric Boggs
Ohio State continues to push aggressively on the recruiting trail, and recent developments from both the 2027 and 2028 cycles show the Ohio State Buckeyes firmly in the mix for several high-impact prospects across the country. The headline development centers on elite offensive lineman Maxwell Hiller, widely regarded as the top interior offensive lineman in the nation. The Pennsylvania native has trimmed his recruitment to a final group and officially scheduled a visit to Columbus on April 1, giving Ohio State a critical opportunity to make its pitch.
Hiller, a 6-foot-5, 300-pound mauler, brings positional versatility and a reputation as a physical finisher in the run game. While programs like the Florida Gators and Alabama Crimson Tide are viewed as major contenders, Ohio State’s proximity and development track record keep it firmly in the race. His recruitment will likely come down to relationships, NIL opportunities, and long-term development, all areas where the Buckeyes believe they can compete.
Ohio State’s offensive line board doesn’t stop there. Luke Injaychock has emerged as another intriguing target. The Illinois product stands 6-foot-6 and 285 pounds with a massive wingspan and the ability to play multiple positions along the line. While he is more of a developmental prospect compared to Hiller, his physical tools and steady improvement have drawn attention. With an official visit set for early June, Ohio State appears well-positioned as it continues casting a wide net to rebuild depth in the trenches.
On the defensive side, Jamar Thompson is a name quickly gaining traction. The 6-foot-3, 305-pound defensive lineman from Florida has narrowed his list to four schools, including Ohio State, the Miami Hurricanes, Auburn Tigers, and Michigan Wolverines. Keeping him out of South Florida will be a challenge, but Ohio State’s track record—especially under legendary defensive line coach Larry Johnson—gives the Buckeyes a legitimate shot to pull him north.
Another defensive name generating buzz is Marvin Nguetsop, a rapidly rising edge prospect with international roots. Originally from Europe and now playing in Connecticut, the 6-foot-7, 275-pound defender is still raw but possesses rare length and athleticism. After earning an offer following a visit to Columbus, his recruitment has taken off, with major programs now entering the mix. His upside makes him one of the more fascinating long-term prospects on the board.
In the secondary, Zayden Gamble has also emerged following a recent visit. The Florida safety, who attends powerhouse St. Thomas Aquinas High School, is part of a loaded defensive backfield drawing national attention. While early indications suggest the Florida Gators may hold an edge, Ohio State has at least positioned itself to stay involved as his recruitment develops.
At wide receiver, Khalil Taylor’s recruitment has taken an interesting turn. After previously decommitting from the Penn State Nittany Lions, Taylor did not initially include Ohio State among his top schools. However, a recent visit to the Woody Hayes Athletic Center has reopened the door, with the dynamic playmaker now considering an official visit. His speed, versatility, and playmaking ability make him a priority target, and Ohio State’s ability to re-enter the race speaks to the strength of its recruiting approach.
Another defensive back drawing attention after a recent visit is Jayden Apparicio-Bailey. The Alabama safety impressed during his time in Columbus, showcasing elite range and closing speed that have evaluators projecting him as a high-level prospect. Pulling him out of the South won’t be easy, but the Buckeyes have clearly made an impression early in the process.
Looking ahead to 2028, Ohio State is already laying groundwork with several emerging prospects. Wide receiver Brandon Jefferson has quickly become a name to watch after earning an offer and visiting campus. The Baltimore native has shown advanced route-running ability and ball-tracking skills for his age, making him an early standout in his class.
Running back Caiden Bellard is another 2028 prospect gaining attention. The Louisiana product brings a physical, downhill running style combined with patience and vision, and early offers from major programs suggest his recruitment will only grow. Ohio State’s willingness to recruit aggressively in the South highlights its national reach.
On the defensive line, the Buckeyes have extended an offer to Andrae Maddox, a physically imposing prospect from Mississippi. While his ties to the Ole Miss Rebels—where his brothers currently play—make this a difficult pull, Ohio State is at least taking its shot at a high-upside talent.
Defensive back Tyler Boyd rounds out the emerging 2028 names. The Georgia corner is still early in his evaluation process, but the Buckeyes have already identified him as a player worth tracking, continuing their trend of offering defensive backs early in the cycle.
Taken together, these updates reinforce Ohio State’s aggressive, wide-ranging recruiting strategy. From elite, ready-made prospects like Maxwell Hiller to high-upside developmental players and rising underclassmen, the Buckeyes are building a deep and versatile board. As visits continue through the spring and summer, Ohio State is positioning itself to remain a dominant force on the recruiting trail for years to come.
