You can’t compete perennially for conference titles and national championships at a place like Ohio State without continuing to recruit at a high level. The Buckeyes have of course done that for a long time now, and because of it, they’re among the elite programs year in and year out.
It is no different under Ryan Day. In fact, he may have even ratcheted up the recruiting just a wee-bit from what we say with Urban Meyer. He just polished off the consensus No. 2 ranked recruiting class in the country for 2021, with several of them already on campus as early enrollees.
Several will be key contributors, and there’s little doubt that at least a handful (likely more) will also end up in the NFL when their careers are over on the banks of Olentangy.
But who has the best chance with the most potential? Those opinions vary, but ESPN provided an option (subscription required) for every one of the teams that hauled in a top 25 recruiting class for 2021. Who did Tom VanHaaren did it pick from OSU’s class? Inquiring minds want to know.
NEXT … ESPN’s pick for player with the most potential from the 2021 recruiting class
Jack Sawyer, Defensive End
What VanHaaren Says About Sawyer
“Sawyer is the No. 1-ranked player overall, but he has room to grow on the field and physically. He’s 6-foot-5, 230 pounds, and he enrolled early at Ohio State. With defensive line coach Larry Johnson’s success at the position, there is reason to believe Sawyer is going to be another great defensive end for the Buckeyes. Nick and Joey Bosa and Chase Young were all first-round NFL draft picks, and Sawyer is hoping to see the same success.”
ESPN’s Craig Haubert Scouting report: The No. 1 player in the 2021 ESPN 300, Sawyer is an explosive presence off the edge. A prospect with nice frame, he added needed mass to his frame over course of his final year of high school. He flashes impressive power, is active with his hands and moves well, allowing him to not only develop into an elite pass rusher, but also be a well-rounded three-down player.
NEXT … What we say
Ohio State 2021 recruit with most potential
What We Say
There’s no denying the size and upside of Sawyer, and there’s a reason almost everyone wanted the kid on their campus to play the game of American football. And while he might end up being a superstar off the edge, there are others too that we can’t forget about. My vote for the player with the most potential and impact would actually go to running back TreVeyon Henderson. He runs with a burst, vision, and bad intentions and is going to be a superstar in Columbus — whether it be this year, the next, or later.
