Has Ohio State identified a QB commit for 2026?

As the 2026 college football recruiting cycle begins to heat up, Ohio State football, known for its elite recruiting, continues to assert itself as a premier program in both the Big Ten and nationally. The Buckeyes have long been a destination for top-tier quarterbacks, and while their current focus remains on upcoming seasons, the future of the program depends on securing high-quality recruits for the years ahead. With Ohio State’s historic success at quarterback, fans and analysts alike have begun speculating: who will be the next star under center for the Buckeyes, and have they already identified a quarterback commit for 2026?

In this article, we will explore the current state of Ohio State’s recruiting efforts for the 2026 class, analyze potential quarterback recruits, and delve into how the Buckeyes are preparing to maintain their tradition of excellence at the quarterback position. From examining the recruiting landscape to considering potential commitments, let’s take a deep dive into what Ohio State’s quarterback future might look like.

Ohio State’s Tradition of Elite Quarterbacks

Ohio State has a storied history of producing some of the best quarterbacks in college football. The Buckeyes have consistently been home to a high-powered offense led by dynamic quarterbacks who can make plays both with their arms and legs. From Art Schlichter and Troy Smith to Dwayne Haskins, Justin Fields, and C.J. Stroud, Ohio State’s quarterback position has been the center of national attention for decades.

More recently, C.J. Stroud, a 2023 first-round NFL draft pick, left an indelible mark on the program with his record-breaking career, which included back-to-back Heisman Trophy finalists nods. The succession plan at quarterback has always been a major topic of discussion in Columbus, as the Buckeyes have made a habit of recruiting top-tier quarterbacks to keep the position competitive and dynamic.

Currently, Kyle McCord and Devin Brown are vying for the starting job under first-year head coach Ryan Day’s tutelage. However, the program must always plan for the future and ensure that their quarterback room remains stocked with talent beyond the current generation. This leads us to the question of how the Buckeyes are preparing for their 2026 quarterback commitment, which is crucial in continuing their legacy of success.

The 2026 Recruiting Landscape

As the 2026 class approaches, Ohio State finds itself in a position where securing a quarterback commitment early could set the tone for their recruiting efforts. While the process may feel distant, the reality is that the best programs often secure their future stars years in advance, particularly at the quarterback position. In fact, Ohio State has already started its recruitment of top quarterbacks for the 2026 cycle, even though the class is still in its early stages.

Potential 2026 Quarterback Recruits for Ohio State

At this point, it’s clear that Ohio State’s coaching staff is targeting elite quarterbacks who possess the physical tools and football IQ to excel in their system. Let’s explore some of the key names that are already on Ohio State’s radar for the 2026 class.

**1. Ryan Montgomery (Bowling Green, Ohio)

One of the most intriguing names for Ohio State fans is Ryan Montgomery, a quarterback from Bowling Green, Ohio. Montgomery has emerged as one of the top quarterbacks in the 2026 class, and his proximity to Columbus makes him a natural target for the Buckeyes. Montgomery stands at 6’4″, has a strong arm, and is known for his ability to make all the throws necessary to succeed in a Power Five offense.

Montgomery’s skill set fits what Ohio State looks for in its quarterbacks: a blend of arm strength, accuracy, and leadership qualities. He has been noted for his maturity on and off the field, which has made him a sought-after recruit by several top programs. Given his familiarity with the area and his obvious talent, Montgomery is a name to watch closely as Ohio State looks to secure its 2026 quarterback commitment.

Additionally, Montgomery’s strong ties to Ohio State make the Buckeyes a logical choice for his recruitment. The proximity to family and the familiarity with the program give Ohio State an edge as they look to land his commitment. There’s a good chance that Montgomery could be one of the first dominoes to fall for Ohio State in the 2026 recruiting cycle.

**2. Dylan Raiola (Phoenix, Arizona)

Though Dylan Raiola is technically part of the 2024 class, his impact on Ohio State’s recruiting efforts for future quarterback prospects is undeniable. Raiola, who committed to Ohio State in May 2023 before flipping to Georgia, was one of the top quarterbacks in his class, and his commitment had sent shockwaves through recruiting circles. Even though Raiola is now at Georgia, his recruitment process has undoubtedly shaped how Ohio State approaches quarterback recruitment for future classes, especially the 2026 cycle.

Raiola’s decision to leave Ohio State has caused the Buckeyes to reassess how they will land their next high-profile quarterback recruit. While Raiola may not be part of the 2026 class, his recruitment will have lasting implications for Ohio State’s ability to attract elite quarterbacks moving forward. It’s clear that the Buckeyes are looking for quarterbacks who possess similar skills to Raiola—elite arm strength, mobility, and mental toughness—and are preparing their recruiting efforts accordingly.

**3. Terry Smith (Louisville, Kentucky)

Another quarterback who has caught the attention of Ohio State coaches is Terry Smith, a dynamic dual-threat quarterback from Louisville, Kentucky. Smith is a highly athletic quarterback known for his ability to both pass and run effectively, making him a strong fit for Ohio State’s high-octane offense. His speed and agility allow him to evade pressure in the pocket, and his quick release on passes allows him to make throws on the run.

Smith’s potential as a dual-threat quarterback makes him an intriguing option for Ohio State as they look to continue their recruiting efforts for the 2026 class. With the ability to make plays with both his arm and his legs, Smith could be a great fit for an offense that emphasizes versatility and creative play-calling.

His recruitment is still in the early stages, but Ohio State has been monitoring his development closely. Given Smith’s athleticism and ability to make plays in multiple ways, he is a name that could become more significant in the coming months as Ohio State continues to evaluate its options.

Ohio State’s Recruiting Strategy and Quarterback Needs

Ohio State’s recruiting strategy for the 2026 quarterback class will likely depend on several factors, including how the current quarterback battle plays out and how the development of quarterbacks like Devin Brown and Kyle McCord unfolds. If McCord or Brown establish themselves as the long-term solution for the Buckeyes, Ohio State may feel more comfortable targeting quarterbacks for later in the 2026 cycle. However, if there are uncertainties about the quarterback position moving forward, securing an early commit from a top 2026 quarterback would likely become a top priority.

Ohio State’s ability to attract elite quarterback talent, even years in advance, speaks to the program’s prestige and the level of confidence that recruits have in the coaching staff and offensive system. Ryan Day’s offensive mind, combined with the success of previous quarterbacks like Fields and Stroud, will continue to be a major selling point for recruits looking to play in a fast-paced, high-scoring offense that allows quarterbacks to shine.

Furthermore, Ohio State has been extremely successful in developing quarterbacks under Day’s leadership, particularly those who have the physical tools and the ability to adapt to Day’s system. The program’s track record of success, both in terms of player development and overall team success, makes it one of the most desirable destinations for top quarterback prospects.

The Importance of Early Commitments for Ohio State

While the 2026 class is still in its early stages, an early commitment from a quarterback would be a major win for Ohio State. Not only would it give the Buckeyes an elite quarterback prospect to build around, but it would also send a signal to other top recruits that Ohio State is a place where elite talent can develop and thrive.

Moreover, landing a quarterback early in the recruiting cycle would provide the coaching staff with the flexibility to focus on other needs as the rest of the 2026 class takes shape. Ohio State has a history of assembling top-ranked recruiting classes, and securing a quarterback early would only help solidify that reputation.A Bright Future at Quarterback for Ohio State

As Ohio State looks to the future, the search for the next great quarterback is already underway. While the 2026 class is still evolving, the Buckeyes are in prime position to land an elite signal-caller who can carry on the tradition of success that has defined the program for decades. Whether it’s Ryan Montgomery, Dylan Raiola (influence), or Terry Smith, Ohio State has several exciting prospects to watch as they work to secure their next quarterback commit.

The development of the quarterback position is paramount for Ohio State’s continued dominance in the Big Ten and on the national stage, and the program’s success in recruiting quarterbacks has been one of the defining aspects of their success over the years. As the 2026 recruiting class progresses, expect Ohio State to continue its efforts to identify and secure the next star under center, ensuring that the future of the Buckeyes remains as bright as ever.