During spring practices, five fascinating Ohio State football recruits are scheduled to visit.

Spring practices are a critical period for college football programs as they begin the process of fine-tuning their rosters, testing new strategies, and evaluating potential talent for the upcoming season. For the Ohio State Buckeyes, a powerhouse program consistently competing for national championships, spring practice isn’t just about what happens on the field. It’s also a chance for the team to evaluate incoming recruits, strengthen relationships with high school players, and prepare for the future. During these spring practices, Ohio State will welcome a number of intriguing recruits to campus—each with the potential to make an impact in the years to come. These visits will provide recruits with the opportunity to experience the Buckeyes’ football culture firsthand, tour the facilities, meet with coaching staff, and interact with players.

In this article, we will take a closer look at five fascinating Ohio State football recruits who are scheduled to visit during the spring practices. These recruits stand out for their impressive skill sets, high recruitment rankings, and the potential they bring to the Buckeyes’ roster. Whether on offense, defense, or special teams, these players are expected to make waves in the recruiting world and could eventually play key roles for Ohio State.

1. Jayson McClellan – Running Back (Class of 2024)

Jayson McClellan, a 5-star running back from Tuscaloosa, Alabama, is one of the most highly sought-after recruits in the 2024 class. At 6’0” and 215 pounds, McClellan brings a perfect blend of size, speed, and power that makes him a rare find at the running back position. Known for his explosive burst, excellent vision, and ability to break tackles, McClellan has all the traits needed to become a workhorse at the next level. His recruitment is a marquee event for Ohio State, and the Buckeyes have a legitimate chance to land him despite stiff competition from other programs.

McClellan has been one of the most impressive running backs in the country, earning accolades for his performance in high school and impressing at camps and showcases. During his visit to Ohio State, McClellan will have the chance to see firsthand how the Buckeyes utilize their running backs in an explosive offense under head coach Ryan Day and offensive coordinator Kevin Wilson. Ohio State’s recent success at producing NFL-caliber running backs, such as J.K. Dobbins and Trey Sermon, will likely be a strong selling point in Ohio State’s favor.

The Buckeyes’ up-tempo offense and their ability to make use of multiple running backs in a committee could be particularly appealing to McClellan. He would be joining a loaded backfield, but his rare combination of power and agility could allow him to make an immediate impact, even as a freshman. The opportunity to develop under the guidance of a coaching staff that has produced some of the best backs in recent memory might be too good to pass up for the Alabama native.

2. Kaidon Salter – Quarterback (Class of 2025)

Kaidon Salter, a 4-star quarterback from Chattanooga, Tennessee, has already made waves in the recruiting world with his playmaking ability and leadership on the field. At 6’2” and 210 pounds, Salter is a dual-threat quarterback capable of making plays with both his arm and his legs. His ability to extend plays with his mobility and throw on the run makes him an ideal fit for Ohio State’s high-powered offense. Salter’s arm strength is one of his standout traits, allowing him to make all the throws required at the collegiate level.

Ohio State’s offensive system, which often leans on a dynamic, mobile quarterback to make quick reads and exploit defenses with both the pass and run, could be a perfect match for Salter’s skill set. His ability to make quick decisions under pressure and his leadership skills could help him develop into a future star under the tutelage of Ryan Day and quarterbacks coach Corey Dennis.

Salter’s recruitment is heating up, with several top-tier programs expressing interest. Ohio State has made it clear that they are invested in bringing in the top quarterbacks for future seasons, and a visit to the campus during spring practices will give Salter an inside look at the program. Ohio State’s quarterback history—particularly recent stars like Justin Fields and C.J. Stroud—will certainly be a point of interest for Salter as he evaluates where he might best fit.

If Salter were to commit to Ohio State, he would be part of an increasingly competitive quarterback room that would challenge him to grow and compete at the highest level. The spring practice visit could play a crucial role in determining if Ohio State will be the school where Salter takes his talents.

3. Jeremiah Smith – Wide Receiver (Class of 2025)

Jeremiah Smith, a 5-star wide receiver from Chaminade-Madonna College Preparatory in Hollywood, Florida, is widely regarded as one of the top prospects in the 2025 recruiting class. At 6’3” and 190 pounds, Smith combines impressive size and speed with refined route-running ability and elite ball skills. Known for his ability to stretch the field and make plays after the catch, Smith has the potential to be an immediate difference-maker at the collegiate level. His fluidity and hands make him one of the most dangerous wide receivers in the country.

Ohio State has become a destination for top-tier wide receiver talent, producing a pipeline of NFL-caliber receivers under Ryan Day’s tutelage. Smith’s potential to make a significant impact in Ohio State’s high-octane passing attack is clear, and the program’s recent history of developing wideouts—including stars like Garrett Wilson and Chris Olave—could make the Buckeyes an attractive option for him.

During his visit to Ohio State’s spring practices, Smith will have the opportunity to meet with the coaching staff, including receivers coach Brian Hartline, who has built a reputation for developing elite wide receivers. Hartline’s ability to groom young talent and prepare them for the next level will likely be a major selling point for Smith, who is eager to maximize his potential as a future NFL draft pick.

If Smith commits to Ohio State, he could immediately compete for playing time in what is expected to be a high-powered passing offense. His presence could solidify the Buckeyes’ wide receiver corps for years to come, and he would form a dangerous connection with whichever quarterback takes the helm.

4. Tyler Atkinson – Defensive End (Class of 2024)

Tyler Atkinson, a 5-star defensive end from Birmingham, Alabama, is one of the most dynamic pass rushers in the 2024 class. Standing at 6’4” and weighing 240 pounds, Atkinson is a physically imposing edge rusher with explosive burst off the line of scrimmage. Known for his ability to disrupt the quarterback and create havoc in the backfield, Atkinson is one of the top priorities for Ohio State’s defensive line recruiting efforts.

Ohio State has long been known for producing elite defensive linemen, and Atkinson would be a perfect fit for the Buckeyes’ attacking defense. His natural athleticism, combined with his motor and ability to get off blocks, would make him an immediate threat off the edge. The chance to work with defensive line coach Larry Johnson, who has mentored numerous first-round draft picks, would be a key part of Ohio State’s pitch to Atkinson during his spring practice visit.

Ohio State’s defensive line is one of the program’s most important position groups, and Atkinson would be joining a talented unit that has regularly ranked among the nation’s best. His visit will allow him to see how the Buckeyes develop their pass rushers, and it could go a long way in securing his commitment.

5. Jayden Lewis – Cornerback (Class of 2025)

Jayden Lewis, a 4-star cornerback from Atlanta, Georgia, has been a standout in the secondary for his high school team. At 6’0” and 180 pounds, Lewis has excellent length, speed, and instincts, making him a potential lockdown corner at the next level. His ability to cover a wide range of routes and his physicality at the line of scrimmage set him apart from many of his peers. As a top target for defensive coordinator Jim Knowles, Lewis could add depth and talent to Ohio State’s secondary.

Ohio State has placed a significant emphasis on improving its defense in recent years, and the addition of a cornerback with Lewis’ skill set would provide a valuable boost to the unit. Lewis’ ball skills and ability to win 50/50 battles in coverage make him a natural fit for Ohio State’s aggressive defensive philosophy.

During his visit, Lewis will be able to witness firsthand the culture of competition within the Ohio State defense and meet with the coaching staff to learn about the defensive schemes. The chance to play in a Big Ten powerhouse with championship aspirations is something that could sway Lewis toward committing to the Buckeyes.