BREAKING NEWS: Sensational four-star defensive lineman has committed to Ohio State. The 6’4 260 DL from Gardena, CA chose the Buckeyes over Notre Dame, Washington, and UCLA.
Ohio State football has landed one of the premier talents in the country, adding another gem to its 2025 recruiting class as a sensational four-star defensive lineman from Gardena, California, has officially announced his commitment to the Buckeyes. The 6-foot-4, 260-pound standout had narrowed his decision down to Ohio State, Notre Dame, Washington, and UCLA, but ultimately chose to take his talents to Columbus, bringing with him not just elite athleticism and versatility, but the potential to be a cornerstone of the Buckeyes’ defensive front for years to come.
This commitment marks a significant victory for head coach Ryan Day and defensive line coach Larry Johnson, who both played pivotal roles in securing the pledge from one of the West Coast’s most sought-after defensive linemen. Known for his relentless motor, quick get-off, and disruptive presence in the trenches, the Gardena native had been courted by programs across the country since his sophomore year, with recruiters praising not only his physical tools but also his leadership and football IQ. The Buckeyes now add a player who many believe could be the next great name in their storied defensive line tradition.
Ohio State’s pursuit of the California star had been well-documented for months, as the Buckeyes made multiple visits to see him in person and hosted him for an official visit earlier this spring. During that visit, he got a full glimpse of the program’s championship culture, its state-of-the-art facilities, and the close-knit brotherhood that has helped develop numerous NFL-caliber talents. It was that trip that reportedly sealed the deal. He came away impressed with the staff’s transparency, the detailed plan they laid out for his development, and the energy around the program as it pushes for another College Football Playoff appearance.
The decision to commit to Ohio State did not come lightly. Notre Dame was a strong contender throughout the process, thanks in part to their strong academic reputation and growing presence on the defensive line under Marcus Freeman. Washington made a compelling case with its recent rise in national relevance and proximity to home, while UCLA offered the appeal of staying in Southern California and playing in front of family and friends. But in the end, Ohio State’s combination of tradition, player development, and national exposure proved too powerful to pass up.
At 6-foot-4 and 260 pounds, the newest Buckeye commit brings an imposing frame that still has room to grow. He’s already dominant at the high school level, regularly blowing up plays in the backfield and commanding double teams from opposing offensive lines. He possesses a rare blend of power and agility, capable of shedding blocks with violent hands and tracking down quarterbacks with impressive speed for a player his size. His tape reveals a player who not only produces but plays with an edge—one who thrives in big moments and leads by example.
Scouts have long been enamored with his upside, projecting him as a potential five-star by the time his senior season concludes. He’s been clocked with elite 10-yard split times for a lineman, showcasing burst off the snap that translates to both the pass rush and run defense. While many top defensive line recruits are still raw in technique, this player is already considered technically sound with a refined repertoire of moves and a keen understanding of leverage and angles. Whether lined up as a strong-side defensive end in a 4-3 scheme or a versatile interior lineman in sub-packages, he has the tools to be a scheme-diverse weapon.
Beyond his on-field prowess, he’s also earned high marks for his character and academic performance. Coaches at his high school have consistently lauded his work ethic and maturity, calling him one of the most coachable and driven players they’ve ever had. That kind of mentality aligns perfectly with what Ohio State demands of its players, especially those expected to play early and contribute to a national title-contending roster. There’s a quiet confidence about him—a belief that he belongs on the biggest stage and is ready to prove it from day one.
His commitment has also sent shockwaves across the national recruiting landscape. It’s not just a win for Ohio State—it’s a statement. The Buckeyes have now established a firm recruiting foothold in California, a state long considered prime real estate for Pac-12 and West Coast powerhouses. In recent years, Ohio State has successfully lured elite talent from the Golden State, and this latest addition continues that trend. It underscores the program’s national reach and its ability to compete—and win—recruiting battles far from Big Ten country.
The addition of this top defensive lineman also gives Ohio State a major boost in the team rankings for the 2025 recruiting class. Already considered a top-five class nationally, the Buckeyes now inch closer to overtaking rivals like Georgia, Alabama, and Michigan for the top overall spot. Recruiting analysts have praised the balance in the class, with elite prospects on both sides of the ball, and this commitment only enhances the defensive side of that equation. For defensive coordinator Jim Knowles, it means another elite weapon to plug into a defense that’s already showing signs of becoming one of the most dominant in the country.
The ripple effects from this announcement are likely to be felt across multiple levels. First, it could influence other top defensive players to take a closer look at Ohio State, particularly those from California or the broader West Coast. Relationships matter in recruiting, and it’s not uncommon for elite players to team up and commit to the same school, especially when they’ve grown close on the camp circuit or through national all-star games. With this commitment locked in, don’t be surprised to see more dominoes fall in Ohio State’s favor over the coming weeks and months.
Secondly, it could have implications for the Buckeyes’ depth chart in the near future. While Ohio State is loaded with talent on the defensive line, it’s also expected to lose several key contributors to the NFL Draft after this season. That opens the door for early playing time, and the new commit is expected to enroll early, go through spring practice, and compete for a role immediately. Whether he ends up in the rotation as a freshman or cracks the starting lineup later in the year, the expectation is that he will not be sitting on the bench for long.
The Buckeyes’ coaching staff has already started tailoring a development plan for their newest recruit, focusing on maximizing his athleticism while continuing to refine his technique and build strength. Ohio State has a proven track record of producing NFL-caliber defensive linemen, and the belief is that with the right guidance and work ethic—which this player unquestionably has—he could be the next name to follow in the footsteps of stars like Joey Bosa, Nick Bosa, Chase Young, and Zach Harrison. That legacy is part of what drew him to the program in the first place. He wants to be great, and he wants to do it at a school that knows how to develop greatness.
This commitment also provides a massive jolt of excitement to the Ohio State fanbase, which has been eagerly following recruiting updates all spring. The addition of such a high-profile player not only energizes the program but also validates the coaching staff’s efforts to build a championship-caliber roster year in and year out. Fans are already imagining what the defensive front might look like in the coming seasons, with elite talent stacked at every position and a relentless mentality that overwhelms opposing offenses.
Back in California, reactions have been mixed. While many understand and support the player’s decision to take advantage of the best opportunity for his future, others lament the fact that another top West Coast prospect has left the region for a national powerhouse. It’s a familiar story in recent years, as schools like Ohio State, Alabama, and Georgia have made increasing inroads into traditional Pac-12 recruiting territory. For now, though, all the focus is on what lies ahead in Columbus.
The transition from high school star to college contributor is never easy, but those close to the new Buckeye commit believe he’s built for the challenge. He’s already begun working with private trainers to prepare for the physical and mental demands of Big Ten football, and he remains in constant communication with the Ohio State coaching staff about his offseason progress. There’s no doubt that he’s locked in, fully aware of what’s expected of him, and hungry to meet those expectations.
As the recruiting cycle continues to unfold, this commitment will be remembered as a turning point in Ohio State’s 2025 class. It solidifies the Buckeyes’ standing as a top destination for elite defensive talent and further demonstrates the program’s ability to recruit nationally at the highest level. For fans, coaches, and teammates alike, the future just got a little brighter—and a lot more intimidating for opposing offenses. The next great Ohio State defensive lineman has arrived.
