The Ohio State Buckeyes lost out on one of the best rushers in Class of 2026 as Richard Wesley has officially commitment to the Oregon…
In a significant development in college football recruiting, five-star EDGE rusher Richard Wesley has officially committed to the University of Oregon, marking a notable setback for the Ohio State Buckeyes as they continue to build their 2026 recruiting class. Wesley, a standout from Sierra Canyon High School in Chatsworth, California, is widely regarded as one of the top defensive prospects in the nation.
Standing at 6-foot-5 and weighing 250 pounds, Wesley possesses a rare combination of size, athleticism, and technique that has drawn comparisons to some of the game’s most dominant pass rushers. His ability to bend around the edge, coupled with his explosive first step, makes him a nightmare for opposing quarterbacks.
In his sophomore season, Wesley recorded 44 tackles, 16 tackles for loss, nine sacks, and four forced fumbles, showcasing his ability to disrupt plays and create turnovers.
Oregon’s coaching staff, led by head coach Dan Lanning and defensive coordinator Tosh Lupoi, has been instrumental in securing Wesley’s commitment. The Ducks have been aggressive in their pursuit of top-tier defensive talent, and Wesley’s decision to commit to Oregon underscores the program’s growing prominence in the national recruiting landscape.
Wesley has expressed admiration for Oregon’s defensive culture, noting the coaching staff’s emphasis on player development and the program’s commitment to competing at the highest level.
Prior to Wesley’s commitment to Oregon, Ohio State had been actively pursuing the talented EDGE rusher. The Buckeyes extended an offer and hosted Wesley for an unofficial visit, highlighting their interest in adding him to their defensive line.
While Ohio State’s coaching staff made a strong impression during their recruitment efforts, they ultimately fell short in securing Wesley’s commitment. The Buckeyes will now turn their attention to other top defensive prospects in the 2026 class as they continue to build a competitive recruiting class.
Wesley’s commitment to Oregon represents a significant addition to the Ducks’ 2026 recruiting class and further solidifies their position as a rising power in college football recruiting. For Ohio State, the focus now shifts to identifying and securing commitments from other elite defensive prospects to strengthen their 2026 class.
As the recruiting cycle progresses, both programs will continue to evaluate and pursue top-tier talent to bolster their rosters and compete at the highest level.
