Four-Star 2026 DE Jackson Ford Raves About Ohio State’s Culture, Says Buckeyes “Definitely” Among Top Schools After Official Visit

The tradition, the intensity, and the unmistakable atmosphere in Columbus left a lasting impression on one of the top edge rushers in the 2026 recruiting class. Jackson Ford, a four-star defensive end from Georgia, had already been intrigued by what Ohio State had to offer. But after a recent official visit to campus, the talented prospect made it clear: the Buckeyes have elevated themselves into prime position in his recruitment.

Coming off a weekend spent immersed in the Buckeye football culture, Ford didn’t hold back when asked how he felt. “Ohio State is definitely one of my top schools,” he said confidently. “I got a real feel for how things are done there. The culture, the discipline, and the family vibe—it’s all real. And it matters.”

Ford, who ranks among the top defensive ends in the 2026 class and is drawing heavy interest from across the SEC and Big Ten, took the trip north to Columbus with high expectations. And according to him, those expectations were not only met—they were surpassed.

“The way they do things is just different,” he said. “From the coaches to the players to the support staff, it’s all dialed in. Everybody there is committed to winning and to doing things the right way.”

At 6-foot-4 and 250 pounds, Ford is already built like a Power Five starter. His length, burst off the edge, and relentless motor have made him one of the most sought-after defenders in the country. He’s received offers from Georgia, Alabama, Tennessee, Michigan, Penn State, and many more. But it’s the visit to Ohio State that may have done more than any other in shaping his decision-making process moving forward.

One of the biggest takeaways for Ford was the time he got to spend with defensive line coach Larry Johnson, a legendary developer of talent and a key architect behind some of the NFL’s most dominant pass rushers over the past decade. “Coach Johnson is the real deal,” Ford said. “When he talks, you listen. He’s seen it all, coached some of the best. But what I appreciated most is that he sees you—not just your talent, but who you are as a person.”

Johnson has developed talents like Joey and Nick Bosa, Chase Young, and more recently players like Zach Harrison and J.T. Tuimoloau. That track record is a major selling point for any elite edge rusher, and Ford is no exception. “He showed me film, walked me through their system, how I’d be used,” Ford added. “It’s not just hype. It’s structure. It’s a plan.”

Ford also got a chance to sit down with head coach Ryan Day, whose leadership and program vision continue to resonate with top recruits around the country. “Coach Day’s passion is real,” Ford said. “He’s a players’ coach, but he’s also intense. He’s about winning championships and developing young men. That stood out.”

The emphasis on player development—not just athletically but personally and academically—was something Ford and his family appreciated. “My parents loved the academic side,” Ford said. “They showed us the Real Life Wednesdays program, how they help guys get internships, make connections, and be set for life beyond football. That kind of support is huge.”

Ford was also struck by the team’s camaraderie. Throughout the visit, he interacted with current players, many of whom were eager to share what made Ohio State different. “They told me the brotherhood is real,” he said. “They hold each other accountable, on and off the field. You can feel it.”

The facilities didn’t hurt, either. Ford described the Woody Hayes Athletic Center as “first-class” and said everything from the weight room to the recovery areas to the meeting rooms screamed championship caliber. “Everything you need to get better is right there,” he said.

Ford’s visit wasn’t just about football, though. He spent time exploring the Ohio State campus, got a feel for student life, and even enjoyed a night out with players and fellow recruits. “It’s a huge campus, but it felt like home,” he said. “It’s big-time, but it’s welcoming. People were friendly, and the support from the fans, even in the offseason, is crazy.”

One of the highlights of the visit came during a team scrimmage session Ford got to watch up close. Seeing the intensity in a practice setting gave him insight into how the Buckeyes prepare. “You’d think it was game day with how hard they were going,” he said. “That’s what it takes to be elite.”

Recruiting insiders believe Ohio State has significantly bolstered its standing in Ford’s recruitment after this visit. While the road to signing day in 2026 is still long, momentum is everything in the modern recruiting landscape, and the Buckeyes appear to have seized it.

“Right now, Ohio State is in a great spot with Jackson,” said one recruiting analyst. “He values development, he values culture, and he values winning. That’s Ohio State’s sweet spot. Add in Coach Johnson’s track record and the facilities they’ve got, and you’ve got a compelling pitch.”

Ford plans to take additional official visits this summer and into the fall, with schools like Georgia, Alabama, and Michigan all pushing hard to secure return visits. But for now, Ohio State has given him a lot to think about.

When asked what comes next, Ford said he’s taking his time. “I’m not in a rush. I want to see a few more places, take everything in,” he said. “But I’ve got a better idea now of what I’m looking for. And Ohio State checks a lot of boxes.”

With NIL opportunities now a key part of the equation for elite recruits, Ford noted that Ohio State’s structure impressed him there as well. “They aren’t just throwing numbers at you,” he said. “They have a system. They help you build your brand and make sure you’re doing it the right way. It’s smart.”

Ford’s visit comes as Ohio State continues to solidify one of the most aggressive and strategic recruiting pushes in the country. Their 2026 class is already shaping up to be elite, and landing a commitment from someone like Ford would only amplify that.

But perhaps the most telling thing came at the end of the visit. As Ford left Columbus, he said he didn’t feel like he was leaving a recruiting pitch—he felt like he was leaving family. “That’s the biggest thing I’ll remember,” he said. “It felt like home. And that means a lot.”

While many twists and turns are sure to follow before Ford signs his national letter of intent, one thing is certain: the Buckeyes have made a powerful impression, and Jackson Ford won’t soon forget his time in Columbus.

As his recruitment heats up, Ford is poised to become one of the defining names of the 2026 class, especially among defensive prospects. And whether or not he ultimately chooses Ohio State, the visit marked a key turning point in his journey.

“I’m blessed to be in this position,” Ford said. “I’ve worked hard, and I just want to find the place that helps me grow the most. Ohio State made it clear—they’re ready to help me do that.”

For Buckeyes fans, that’s exactly what they were hoping to hear. And as Ford inches closer to his decision day, all eyes will be on whether Columbus becomes his future home. For now, one thing is certain: Ohio State is “definitely” near the top.