Eric Boggs
Ohio State continues to dominate the recruiting trail under the guidance of Brian Hartline, who has once again bolstered the Buckeyes’ wide receiver room for the class of 2025. On Saturday, four-star California prospect Phillip Bell announced his commitment to Ohio State, choosing the Buckeyes over Big Ten rival USC on the same day as Ohio State’s 2024 season opener.
Hartline extended an offer to Bell in March 2023, and the connection was immediate. Bell quickly formed a strong bond with Ohio State’s co-offensive coordinator, visiting the campus last fall for the Michigan State game. That visit left a lasting impression on Bell, who began to envision himself as part of the Buckeye family.
“My Ohio State visit was amazing,” Bell told Eleven Warriors last November. “The game atmosphere was great. I loved the environment and how the fans are really engaged with everything. The team played great. The offense had an incredible first half and showed what they can do over these next few weeks. The coaches let me know that I’m a priority and that they really want me there. Coach Hartline talked a lot about being different, and I know that he can develop me into the best me.”
Bell returned to Columbus on June 14 for his official visit, where he was impressed by the developmental plan Ohio State had tailored for him. Despite a strong push from USC to keep Bell on the West Coast, the Buckeyes’ proven track record in developing elite wide receivers and competing for national championships ultimately won him over.
With Bell’s commitment, Ohio State’s 2025 class now boasts 26 recruits, including four wide receivers: Quincy Porter, Bodpegn Miller, De’zie Jones, and Bell. Hartline is assembling one of the most physically imposing wide receiver groups in the country, as Porter, Miller, and Bell all stand at least 6-foot-2. Bell’s addition further solidifies Ohio State’s top-ranked 2025 recruiting class, according to 247Sports.
Phillip Bell is ranked as the No. 152 prospect and the No. 16 wide receiver in the 2025 class by the 247Sports Composite. During his junior season at Mission Viejo, Bell hauled in 56 receptions for 644 yards and seven touchdowns. As a sophomore, he showcased his potential with 73 catches for 818 yards and an impressive 20 touchdowns.
Bell projects as a standout outside receiver for the Buckeyes. His height, consistent hands, and excellent ball skills make him a reliable target, particularly on the sidelines. Bell has repeatedly demonstrated his ability to win jump-ball situations, using his size to outmuscle smaller defenders. He’s an advanced route runner with quick direction changes and a willingness to absorb contact, making him a dangerous red zone threat.
Given the depth of Ohio State’s wide receiver room, it may take some time for Bell to see significant playing time, but his skill set suggests he has the potential to become a key weapon for the Buckeyes in the future.
