Eric Boggs
Ohio State’s recruiting board for the 2027 and 2028 cycles continues to expand rapidly, and the latest developments show the Ohio State Buckeyes positioning themselves strongly with several emerging prospects across the country.
One of the most intriguing names is 2028 quarterback Neimann Lawrence, an elite signal caller already drawing national attention. Lawrence recently trimmed his list to seven schools, and Ohio State remains firmly in contention alongside six other major programs. Evaluators praise his advanced field vision, arm talent, and poise under pressure, traits that have helped him establish relationships with top players through his involvement with the South Florida Express. With multiple visits already completed and early interest from the Buckeyes’ staff, Lawrence looks like a long-term priority as the staff continues to cultivate that relationship.
In the trenches, offensive line recruiting has clearly become a major emphasis under head coach Ryan Day and his staff. Qua Ford, a massive lineman now reportedly around 330 pounds, is emerging as a legitimate target in what appears to be a two-team battle between Ohio State and the SMU Mustangs. Ford is already ranked inside the national top 100 and among the best tackles in his class, and his connection with the Buckeye staff has become noticeable. Geographic proximity and NIL considerations could factor into his decision, but Ohio State’s development track record keeps it squarely in the race.
Another offensive line prospect gaining traction is Ian Walker of New Jersey. At 6-foot-6 and over 300 pounds, Walker’s quick first step, physical finish, and ability to reach the second level have evaluators excited about his upside once he enters a college strength program. He has already visited Columbus prior to receiving an offer and is planning a return trip, a strong signal of genuine interest. His basketball background also appeals to recruiters who value footwork and lateral agility in linemen. The Buckeyes appear to be casting a wider net up front than in previous cycles, prioritizing volume and competition among prospects rather than a smaller, more selective board.
At wide receiver, Blake Wong has resurfaced as a name to watch. The California playmaker has long been on Ohio State’s radar dating back to when former assistant Brian Hartline led the room, and new receivers coach Cortez Hankton has continued building that relationship. Wong, a top-50 receiver nationally by composite rankings, is being stylistically compared to former Buckeye star Chris Olave because of his smooth movement and route running. West Coast programs remain heavily involved, but insiders believe Ohio State could be the school most capable of pulling him across the country if his recruitment trends that way.
Defensively, edge rusher Chaz Gray is quickly gaining traction nationally after earning his Buckeye offer. The New Jersey standout boasts a 6-foot-4, 250-pound frame and has already drawn attention from major programs such as the Notre Dame Fighting Irish and the Miami Hurricanes. Analysts view him as a high-upside prospect whose ranking could rise significantly as more schools evaluate him. His combination of explosiveness, length, and physicality makes him a disruptive presence both rushing the passer and affecting throwing lanes, and early indications suggest Ohio State is in strong position as he prepares for a campus visit.
In the secondary, safety Junior James stands out as one of the more intriguing defensive backs on the board. At 6-foot-3 and nearly 200 pounds, he already possesses linebacker size while retaining the athleticism to patrol deep coverage. Coaches see a player whose frame will easily support additional weight without sacrificing range, and Ohio State’s in-person evaluation visit to Alabama signals serious interest. Many believe his current ranking undervalues his long-term potential.
Fellow defensive back Caleb Cooper offers similar versatility. The North Carolina athlete can line up at safety or corner and brings a physically mature 6-foot-2, 207-pound build. Ohio State has made the state a priority recruiting ground, taking advantage of the fact that local North Carolina Tar Heels, led by Bill Belichick, has not locked down in-state recruiting as effectively as some expected. Cooper fits the mold of a multi-position defender the Buckeyes covet, and his athletic profile gives him developmental appeal.
Taken together, this group illustrates how aggressively Ohio State is approaching upcoming cycles. From elite quarterbacks to developmental linemen and versatile defenders, the Buckeyes are expanding their board, strengthening relationships early, and positioning themselves for future commitments. The strategy reflects a staff determined to build depth and competition across every position, ensuring that when signing day arrives in the coming years, Ohio State remains firmly among college football’s recruiting powers.
