can reigning champion Ohio State football land five-star lineman Jackson Cantwell?

The recruitment of Jackson Cantwell, a 6-foot-8, 316-pound offensive tackle from Nixa, Missouri, has become one of the most closely watched stories in college football. As the No. 1 overall recruit in the 2026 class, Cantwell’s decision will significantly impact the future of whichever program he chooses. Ohio State, a perennial powerhouse in college football, is among the six schools vying for his commitment. However, with strong competition from programs like Georgia, Michigan, Miami, Missouri, and Oregon, the question remains: Will Ohio State land this elite prospect?

Jackson Cantwell: A Phenomenal Talent

Cantwell’s athletic prowess is undeniable. He is the son of Olympic shot putters Christian Cantwell and Teri Steer, both of whom have left indelible marks in the track and field world. Following in their footsteps, Jackson has excelled in both football and track. In football, he has been a dominant force on the offensive line, earning first-team All-American honors as a freshman and leading Nixa High School to a state runner-up finish in Missouri’s Class 6 as a junior. His performance included 158 pancake blocks, showcasing his exceptional blocking ability. In track, Cantwell set national records in shot put and discus, further highlighting his remarkable athleticism.

Ohio State’s Recruitment Efforts

Ohio State extended an offer to Cantwell in October 2023, recognizing his potential to bolster their offensive line. The Buckeyes’ coaching staff, including former offensive line coach Justin Frye, emphasized the program’s tradition of developing elite linemen. Cantwell visited Ohio State in December 2024, marking his first trip to Columbus. He described the visit as enjoyable and informative, noting the opportunity to learn more about the program and interact with the coaching staff. Despite the subsequent departure of Coach Frye to the NFL, Ohio State remains a strong contender in Cantwell’s recruitment. The hiring of Tyler Bowen from Virginia Tech as the new offensive line coach has been well-received, with Cantwell planning a return visit to Columbus in March 2025.

Competition from Other Programs

While Ohio State has made significant strides in Cantwell’s recruitment, they face stiff competition from other top programs. Georgia, for instance, boasts a strong offensive line tradition and has made a lasting impression on Cantwell during his visits. Cantwell has praised Georgia’s attention to detail and the development of its offensive linemen under coach Stacy Searels. Similarly, Michigan’s program and coaching staff have also left a positive impression on Cantwell, who visited Ann Arbor in December 2024. Miami, under head coach Mario Cristobal, is another program that excites Cantwell due to its emphasis on offensive line development and coaching expertise.

Missouri, Cantwell’s in-state school, remains a strong contender, with head coach Eli Drinkwitz making him a top priority. Cantwell has expressed appreciation for Missouri’s focus on in-state talent and the program’s efforts to keep top recruits in-state. Oregon, with its innovative approach and strong program, also remains in the mix.

Factors Influencing Cantwell’s Decision

Several key factors will influence Cantwell’s decision:

• Coaching Staff: The relationship between Cantwell and the offensive line coach is crucial. He has emphasized the importance of this relationship in his recruitment process.
• Program Success: Cantwell is looking for a program with a strong track record of success and a commitment to developing players.
• Academic Opportunities: Given his background in track and field, Cantwell values programs that offer strong academic support and opportunities to excel in multiple sports.
• Family Preferences: The opinions of his family members, particularly his parents, will play a significant role in his decision-making process.

Ohio State’s Position

Ohio State has positioned itself well in Cantwell’s recruitment. The program’s tradition of developing elite offensive linemen, coupled with the recent coaching changes that have been positively received, has kept the Buckeyes in contention. Cantwell’s return visit to Columbus in March 2025 indicates a continued interest in the program. However, the competition remains fierce, and Ohio State will need to continue to build on its relationship with Cantwell and address the factors that are most important to him.

The recruitment of Jackson Cantwell is far from decided, and while Ohio State is in the mix, the outcome remains uncertain. The Buckeyes’ strong program, tradition of developing offensive linemen, and positive interactions with Cantwell’s family provide a solid foundation. However, the competition from other top programs cannot be overlooked. As Cantwell continues to evaluate his options, Ohio State will need to maintain its efforts and address all factors important to him to secure his commitment.