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USA Today Sports Media Group
USA Today Sports Media Group
Sport
Michael Chen

Ohio State football recruiting recap following its first junior day

Ohio State Buckeyes Bo Jackson Football Ohio Buckeye Nate Roberts Trey McNutt 247Sports Dominic Kirks

Ohio State football wasn’t just winning on the recruiting trail away from Columbus, they were doing work at home as well.

The good times started on Friday with the massive transfer commitment of Alabama transfer safety Caleb Downs, then on Saturday it continued with 2024 defensive end Dominic Kirks joining the class.

That wasn’t all that the Buckeye coaching staff was doing, they hosted multiple prospects, gave out a few offers (one that we highlighted for safety DeShawn Stewart already) and so much more.

Check out a quick recap of Ohio State’s recruiting action below.

(Note: All prospects rankings are according to the 247Sports Composite Rankings.)

Offer out to 2026-instate offensive lineman Will Conroy

Recap

Conroy got the offer and was quickly crystal balled to the Buckeyes by 247Sports Bill Kurelic. At 6-foot, 3-inches and 275-pounds, he has a great frame for an interior lineman. He’s currently unranked at the moment.

Ohio State offers 2025 Indiana edge rusher Mariyon Dye

Recap

Ohio State continues to add more elite talent to its defensive line, this time with an offer to Dye. He also has a great frame at 6-foot, 5-inches and 235-pounds and is ranked as the No. 24 edge and 319th overall prospect.

In-state 2025 running back Bo Jackson congratulated Kirks on commitment

Recap

Another big in-state target is Jackson, who already holds a Buckeye offer. Both reside in the Cleveland area and obvious know each other. Might they be teammates at the next level? Jackson is ranked as the No. 8 running back and 98th overall prospect in the country.

Ohio State trying to flip 2025 in-state Wisconsin commit Cody Haddad

Recap

Although Haddad committed to Wisconsin earlier this month, the lure of playing in his home state is there. The Buckeyes offered the impressive athlete, who stands 6-foot, 1-inch and weighs 175-pounds. He’s ranked as the No. 31 athlete and 457th overall prospect in his class.

In-state 2025 wide receiver Preston Bowman visits Columbus

Recap

Even without an Ohio State offer, Bowman and the Buckeyes are maintaining a good relationship. The 6-foot and 190-pound receiver isn’t ranked at the current moment.

In-state 2025 elite athlete Trey McNutt visits with Ryan Day

Recap

Another top Ohio State in-state target is McNutt, whose father Richard played for the Buckeyes from 1999-2002. Already holding an offer, the legacy is one of the top players in the nation, ranking 34th overall while being the No. 2 safety.

Oklahoma 2025 tight end Nate Roberts enjoys another Ohio State visit

Recap

The one-time Notre Dame commit is highly considering the Buckeyes, as they are viewed as the leader in his recruitment at the moment. Returning to Columbus should be viewed as a very good sign for the nations No. 4 tight end and 106th overall player.

In-state 2026 wide receiver Payton Cook enjoys the visit

Recap

Although Cook doesn’t currently have an Ohio State offer, multiple other Power 5 schools have done so. Currently unranked, which will most likely change, the 6-foot, 2-inch and 170-pound receiver has the potential for the Buckeyes to eventually offer.

Elite 2026 in-state corner Elbert Hill visits Columbus again

Recap

Although unranked right now, Hill’s offer list, which includes on from Ohio State and other Midwest powers, shows that he’s going to be one soon. With the way recruiting has gone for the Buckeyes secondary, if you get an offer, you are an elite prospect.

Ohio State continues to gain momentum with Alabama quarterback transfer Julian Sayin

Recap

The top ranked quarterback in the 2024 cycle didn’t stay long in Tuscaloosa, as he quickly entered the portal after Nick Saban announced his retirement. As one of the most trusted Ohio State insiders, when Bill Kurelic puts in a crystal ball, it’s really good news.

Contact/Follow @BuckeyesWire on X (formerly Twitter), and like our page on Facebook to follow ongoing coverage of Ohio State news, notes, and opinion. Follow Michael Chen on X.

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