Ohio State University has a storied tradition of attracting elite football talent, consistently securing commitments from some of the nation’s top high school prospects. These athletes, often rated as five-star recruits, have made significant impacts both during their collegiate careers and in professional leagues. Here are ten of the highest-rated signees in the Buckeyes’ modern recruiting history:
1. Terrelle Pryor (Class of 2008) Terrelle Pryor stands out as one of Ohio State’s most celebrated recruits. A dual-threat quarterback from Jeannette, Pennsylvania, Pryor was the nation’s top overall prospect in 2008. His exceptional athleticism and versatility made him a coveted player, and he chose Ohio State over programs like Penn State, Michigan, and Oregon. During his tenure with the Buckeyes, Pryor amassed over 6,000 passing yards and 2,000 rushing yards, leading the team to multiple Big Ten championships. Despite his college career being marred by controversy, Pryor transitioned to the NFL, finding success as a wide receiver. citeturn0search16
2. Justin Fields (Transfer in 2019) Originally signing with Georgia in 2018, Justin Fields transferred to Ohio State in 2019. As a high school recruit, he was among the top-rated players nationally. At Ohio State, Fields showcased exceptional talent, leading the Buckeyes to consecutive College Football Playoff appearances and earning multiple individual accolades. His impressive performance solidified his status as one of the premier quarterbacks in college football.
3. Jack Sawyer (Class of 2021) Hailing from Pickerington, Ohio, Jack Sawyer was a five-star defensive end recruit in the 2021 class. Known for his explosive pass-rushing abilities, Sawyer was instrumental in bolstering Ohio State’s defensive line depth. His commitment to the Buckeyes underscored the program’s ability to retain top in-state talent.
4. Julian Fleming (Class of 2020) Julian Fleming, a wide receiver from Pennsylvania, was the top-ranked receiver in the 2020 recruiting class. His combination of size, speed, and route-running precision made him a standout prospect. Fleming’s decision to join Ohio State added to the program’s rich history of producing elite wide receivers.
5. Paris Johnson Jr. (Class of 2020) An offensive tackle from Cincinnati, Ohio, Paris Johnson Jr. was a five-star recruit in 2020. His exceptional footwork and strength positioned him as a cornerstone for the Buckeyes’ offensive line. Johnson’s commitment highlighted Ohio State’s success in securing top-tier offensive linemen.
6. Ted Ginn Jr. (Class of 2004) A versatile athlete from Cleveland, Ohio, Ted Ginn Jr. was a five-star recruit in 2004. Initially recruited as a defensive back, Ginn’s speed and playmaking abilities led to a standout career as a wide receiver and return specialist at Ohio State. His electrifying performances made him a fan favorite and a first-round NFL Draft pick.
7. Beanie Wells (Class of 2006) Chris “Beanie” Wells, a running back from Akron, Ohio, was among the top recruits in 2006. Known for his combination of power and speed, Wells rushed for over 3,300 yards during his collegiate career, earning All-Big Ten honors and solidifying Ohio State’s reputation for producing elite running backs.
8. Vernon Gholston (Class of 2004) A defensive end from Detroit, Michigan, Vernon Gholston was a highly touted recruit in 2004. His strength and athleticism led to a dominant career at Ohio State, where he set the single-season sack record in 2007. Gholston’s collegiate success propelled him to become a top-ten pick in the NFL Draft.
9. Nicholas Petit-Frere (Class of 2018) An offensive tackle from Tampa, Florida, Nicholas Petit-Frere was a five-star recruit in 2018. His agility and technique made him a valuable addition to Ohio State’s offensive line, where he developed into a reliable starter and garnered All-Big Ten honors.
10. Quinn Ewers (Class of 2021) Quinn Ewers, a quarterback from Southlake, Texas, was originally part of the 2022 class but reclassified to 2021. As one of the highest-rated quarterback recruits, Ewers’ arm talent and football IQ generated significant buzz. Although his time at Ohio State was brief before transferring, his recruitment underscored the Buckeyes’ national reach in attracting premier talent.
These players exemplify Ohio State’s commitment to recruiting excellence, contributing significantly to the program’s sustained success on both conference and national stages.
