Ohio State Adds Key Transfer, Extends Offers, and Sees Movement in 2026 Recruiting
With spring practices wrapped up, Ohio State’s coaching staff is back on the recruiting trail, working to build a standout 2026 class.
Buckeyes Land Transfer Defensive End Beau Atkinson
Ohio State secured a major addition to its defensive line with the transfer of Beau Atkinson from North Carolina. One of the top defensive ends in the portal, Atkinson visited both Georgia and Ohio State, ultimately choosing to play in Columbus. The 6-foot-6, 260-pound edge rusher has recorded 54 tackles and 11 sacks over the past two seasons and is expected to thrive under defensive line coach Larry Johnson. While Ohio State still seeks to add an interior lineman, Atkinson’s commitment is a significant win for the program.
2027 Prospect Junior Saunders Offered by OSU
Running backs coach Carlos Locklyn visited Woodberry Forest High School in Virginia and offered a scholarship to offensive tackle Junior Saunders. Standing at 6-foot-6 and 270 pounds, Saunders is ranked No. 366 nationally and No. 35 among offensive tackles by 247Sports Composite. He already holds offers from several major programs, including Florida State, Penn State, and Tennessee. With ties to Virginia Tech and new offensive coordinator Tyler Bowen, Saunders could be heavily influenced by Ohio State’s interest.
Jackson Cantwell Pushes Commitment Date
Top-ranked 2026 offensive tackle Jackson Cantwell has delayed his college decision. Initially planning to commit on April 30, he has moved the date to May 13 to include a final visit to Georgia. Cantwell has narrowed his choices to Georgia, Miami, Ohio State, and Oregon. While Miami currently leads according to 247Sports predictions, the situation remains fluid and Ohio State remains in the mix.
More Recruiting Updates
- Tight end coach Keenan Bailey visited Illinois to check on four-star tight end Mack Sutter, the No. 86 player nationally and No. 6 tight end. Sutter has nearly 50 offers and is a high priority for the Buckeyes in 2026.
- Carlos Locklyn also checked in on interior offensive lineman Darius Gray, ranked No. 29 overall and No. 2 at his position. Ohio State remains in a strong position with Gray, continuing to reinforce their commitment to him.
