Buckeye Recruiting: Ohio State’s 2025 Class Poised for Immediate Impact
(Columbus, OH) — The Ohio State Buckeyes continue to solidify their place as one of the premier programs in college football, and their 2025 recruiting class is further proof. Despite the changes in coaching staff and roster turnover, Ryan Day and his team have assembled a class that blends immediate-impact talent with long-term development pieces. With five-star recruits headlining the group, the Buckeyes are once again preparing to reload and compete for a national championship.
Offensive Stars: The Next Generation of Playmakers
Ohio State has built a reputation as Wide Receiver U, and the 2025 class ensures that tradition continues. Leading the way is five-star wide receiver Quincy Porter, a 6-foot-3, 200-pound playmaker with the size, speed, and hands to be an instant difference-maker. With Emeka Egbuka likely heading to the NFL, Porter has a clear path to early playing time, forming a dangerous duo with last year’s star freshman, Jeremiah Smith.
At quarterback, five-star Tavien St. Clair represents the future of Ohio State’s offense. The 6-foot-4, 225-pound signal-caller has drawn comparisons to former Buckeye greats thanks to his arm strength, mobility, and leadership. While he will need time to adjust to the college game, he’s already being groomed as the potential heir to Julian Sayin in 2026.
In the backfield, the Buckeyes added four-star running backs Anthony Rogers and Bo Jackson, both of whom bring different skill sets to the table. Rogers, a speedster from Alabama, adds explosiveness, while Jackson, a physical runner from Cleveland, provides power and vision. Together, they give Ohio State a dynamic duo to develop for the future.
Defensive Reinforcements: Buckeyes Build a Shutdown Unit
On the defensive side of the ball, five-star cornerback Devin Sanchez headlines the class. The No. 1-ranked cornerback in the nation, Sanchez has elite ball skills, speed, and physicality. With Jordan Hancock and Denzel Burke expected to leave for the NFL, Sanchez has a legitimate chance to start from day one.
Another defensive standout is four-star linebacker Riley Pettijohn, a Texas native with exceptional speed and versatility. At 6-foot-2, 215 pounds, Pettijohn plays sideline to sideline and has the potential to develop into an All-Big Ten defender. Ohio State also bolstered its secondary with the additions of Faheem Delane and Deshawn Stewart, two highly rated safeties who bring size and range to the defensive backfield.
Up front, defensive end Zion Grady and defensive tackle Jarquez Carter add much-needed depth to the Buckeyes’ defensive line. Grady, a highly ranked edge rusher, has the tools to develop into a dominant pass-rusher, while Carter’s strength and quickness give Ohio State an anchor in the trenches.
Coaching Changes and Buckeye Recruiting Adjustments
Ohio State’s recruiting success has come despite significant coaching changes. Offensive coordinator Chip Kelly’s departure to the NFL left a major void, but potential replacements like Brian Hartline and Jason Candle could maintain the program’s offensive firepower. On defense, Jim Knowles’ exit to Penn State means a new leader must step in, with names like Bryant Haynes emerging as potential candidates.
Additionally, the Buckeyes are dealing with staff turnover in recruiting, as Morgan Phillips departs for LSU. Despite these changes, Ohio State remains in prime position to maintain its elite recruiting status.
Final Outlook: 2025 Buckeyes Set for Another Title Run
With a top-five nationally ranked class, Ohio State has once again proven its ability to attract top-tier talent. The Buckeyes’ 2025 class is loaded with future stars, and several of them could make an immediate impact in their freshman season.
As spring practice approaches, all eyes will be on Porter, Sanchez, and St. Clair, as they look to make their mark in Columbus. Whether it’s on offense or defense, one thing is clear—Ohio State’s latest recruiting class has set the foundation for continued dominance in the Big Ten and beyond.
Buckeye Nation, which recruit are you most excited to see take the field in 2025? Let us know in the comments!
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