Overview of the Freshman Class: Columbus Will See Many Potential Stars in Ohio State’s 2025 Recruiting Class | E

Overview of the Freshman Class: Columbus Will See Many Potential Stars in Ohio State’s 2025 Recruiting Class

Ohio State University’s football program is well-known for its rich tradition, national championships, and a legacy of producing elite talent that excels both in college and the NFL. The Buckeyes continue to be a juggernaut in recruiting, attracting top-tier prospects from across the nation. As we look ahead to Ohio State’s 2025 recruiting class, it’s clear that this group of freshmen has the potential to be one of the most exciting and talent-laden classes the program has ever seen.

The 2025 class is loaded with future stars, and these incoming players will bolster an already dynamic roster. From highly-rated five-star recruits to incredibly skilled three- and four-star prospects, the Buckeyes’ freshman class is primed to make a significant impact on the program’s future. This class has the potential to elevate Ohio State’s football program to even greater heights, and it will be exciting to watch these players grow and develop over the coming years.

In this article, we will take an in-depth look at some of the top recruits in Ohio State’s 2025 recruiting class and examine their potential to contribute early and help the team maintain its dominance in the Big Ten and on the national stage. We will discuss their individual skill sets, playing styles, and how they fit into Ohio State’s system.

Ohio State’s Commitment to Recruiting Excellence

Before diving into the specifics of the 2025 class, it’s important to understand why Ohio State continues to be a recruiting powerhouse. Under head coach Ryan Day, the Buckeyes have maintained a high standard of excellence both on and off the field. Ohio State’s commitment to developing players, top-tier coaching staff, state-of-the-art facilities, and a winning culture are all contributing factors to the program’s success in recruiting. Additionally, Ohio State’s long history of producing NFL talent—particularly at key positions such as quarterback, running back, and defensive back—has made it a highly attractive destination for top recruits.

The Buckeyes have consistently ranked among the nation’s top recruiting classes, and the 2025 class is no exception. This group of players includes a mix of offensive and defensive stars who will provide immediate depth and long-term potential for the program. Several of these recruits have already been ranked among the best at their respective positions, and many are expected to make an immediate impact as true freshmen.

The Stars of the 2025 Class

1. QB Jaden Davis

The most significant recruit in Ohio State’s 2025 class is Jaden Davis, a five-star quarterback from Charlotte, North Carolina. Davis is a dynamic playmaker who has the potential to be one of the best quarterbacks in the nation. Standing at 6’2″ and weighing around 200 pounds, Davis is known for his strong arm, mobility, and ability to make plays under pressure. He has an excellent feel for the game, combining deep ball accuracy with quick decision-making and an ability to escape the pocket when necessary.

Davis is highly regarded for his poise in the pocket and his ability to read defenses. His advanced football IQ is one of the main reasons Ohio State’s coaching staff is so excited about his commitment. Davis has the tools to thrive in Ohio State’s fast-paced, high-powered offense, which has been one of the most successful in the country under Day’s leadership. With the quarterback position remaining a vital part of Ohio State’s offensive success, Davis has the chance to step in and make an immediate impact when he arrives on campus.

2. WR Eli Jefferson

Ohio State has long been known for producing elite wide receivers, and Eli Jefferson is a five-star wideout from Atlanta, Georgia, who fits that mold perfectly. At 6’3″ and 210 pounds, Jefferson has ideal size for a receiver and possesses explosive speed that allows him to separate from defenders and make plays down the field. He is an exceptional route runner and can make catches in a variety of situations, whether it’s beating defenders on deep routes or making contested catches in traffic.

Jefferson’s ability to make plays in the red zone and create separation on deep balls makes him a perfect fit for Ohio State’s offense, which has often relied on a dynamic receiving corps to stretch defenses. His combination of size, speed, and hands will be a key asset to Ohio State’s offensive attack, and he could quickly become a top target for whichever quarterback takes the reins in the coming seasons. Jefferson’s commitment to Ohio State solidifies the program’s already impressive receiving depth and ensures the Buckeyes will continue to be a formidable offensive force in the Big Ten.

3. LB Corey James

Corey James is a five-star linebacker from Los Angeles, California, who possesses all the physical tools to become an elite linebacker in college football. James stands at 6’1″ and weighs in at 225 pounds, with a frame that’s capable of adding even more muscle as he matures. Known for his speed and agility, James is a sideline-to-sideline linebacker who excels in both pass coverage and stopping the run.

James has a great nose for the ball, and his ability to diagnose plays quickly has earned him comparisons to some of the top linebackers in college football. His versatility allows him to play multiple positions within Ohio State’s defensive schemes, making him an exciting addition to a defense that already boasts a strong reputation under defensive coordinator Jim Knowles. James could immediately contribute to Ohio State’s linebacker corps, providing both leadership and playmaking ability from the moment he steps onto the field.

4. OT DeAndre Owens

Ohio State’s offensive line has been one of the best in the country for years, and DeAndre Owens is a massive addition to the class that will help continue this tradition of dominance. Owens, a five-star offensive tackle from Houston, Texas, is an absolute physical specimen at 6’6″ and 330 pounds. He possesses elite strength and has shown the ability to dominate defenders at the line of scrimmage. Owens is a fierce competitor and is known for his ability to control defenders with both power and technique.

Owens’ addition to Ohio State’s offensive line solidifies the Buckeyes’ already impressive depth up front. With Ohio State’s emphasis on running the football and protecting the quarterback, Owens has the chance to be a cornerstone player for years to come. As a freshman, Owens could compete for a starting spot on the line, helping to anchor one of the best offenses in college football.

5. CB Donovan Miller

Defensively, Donovan Miller is a name that will likely become synonymous with shutdown cornerback play at Ohio State. Miller, a four-star cornerback from Miami, Florida, is a highly regarded prospect who possesses exceptional speed, ball skills, and the ability to lock down top receivers. Standing at 6’0″ and 185 pounds, Miller has the size and physicality to compete with some of the best wideouts in college football.

Miller’s ability to play tight coverage and make plays on the ball makes him a perfect fit for Ohio State’s aggressive defensive system. His instincts and ability to read the quarterback’s eyes allow him to make timely interceptions and break up passes. With the departure of some key players in Ohio State’s secondary, Miller’s commitment ensures the Buckeyes will have a strong cornerback presence for years to come.

6. RB James “J.J.” Thompson

While Ohio State has been known for its elite quarterbacks and wide receivers, the running back position has also been an area of strength. J.J. Thompson, a four-star running back from Detroit, Michigan, will bring much-needed depth to the position. At 6’0″ and 210 pounds, Thompson combines size and speed to become a dangerous weapon in the running game.

Thompson is a powerful runner who can bulldoze through defenders, but he also has the speed and agility to make defenders miss in the open field. His combination of power and explosiveness will make him a valuable asset in Ohio State’s offense. With the potential to be a key contributor as early as his freshman year, Thompson will look to provide another dynamic element to Ohio State’s high-powered offense.

The Future of Ohio State Football

The 2025 recruiting class has the potential to be a game-changer for Ohio State. With a mix of five-star and four-star talent across various positions, this class is filled with players who have the ability to make an immediate impact. The combination of offensive and defensive stars will provide depth to an already talented roster, and these freshmen could be the key to keeping Ohio State at the top of the Big Ten and competing for national championships in the years to come.

For Ohio State fans, the future looks incredibly bright with this incoming class. From Jaden Davis’ leadership at quarterback to the defensive prowess of players like Corey James and Donovan Miller, the 2025 class represents the next wave of Ohio State football stars. As these recruits develop and contribute to the program’s success, Ohio State will continue to be a powerhouse in college football, maintaining its status as one of the premier programs in the country. The future is now, and Columbus is set to see many future stars rise through the ranks in the years to come.