Four-star Defensive Tackle Damari Simeon Commits to Ohio State
COLUMBUS, Ohio — The trenches in Columbus just got a whole lot deeper.
Damari Simeon, a dominant four-star defensive tackle in the 2026 class, has officially committed to Ohio State, adding another high-ceiling talent to what’s shaping up to be one of the Buckeyes’ most physically imposing defensive line classes in recent memory.
The 6-foot-4, 295-pound interior defender from Fort Lauderdale, Florida announced his decision Saturday afternoon, choosing the Buckeyes over Florida State, Miami, Michigan, and Alabama.
“Ohio State is where I want to win championships and become the best version of myself,” Simeon said in a statement. “Coach Johnson is the best in the game — no one develops linemen like him.”
Simeon is ranked among the top 15 defensive tackles in the 2026 class and is considered a Top 150 national prospect by 247Sports, Rivals, and On3.
A standout at St. Thomas Aquinas High School, one of Florida’s premier talent factories, Simeon has been a force in the middle since his sophomore season. His 2023 stats include:
- 48 tackles
- 12 tackles for loss
- 5.5 sacks
- 2 forced fumbles
Simeon combines elite lower-body strength with surprising burst for his size. Scouts praise his ability to shed blocks, hold his gap, and penetrate the backfield with authority. His pad level and hand usage are already considered advanced for a high school junior.
Under legendary defensive line coach Larry Johnson, the Buckeyes have built a tradition of producing elite NFL-caliber linemen — and Simeon fits that mold.
He projects as a three-technique DT but has enough size and power to anchor as a one-tech in odd fronts. His versatility allows Ohio State to be creative with rotations, and he’s expected to play alongside fellow 2026 DT commit Cameron Brickle and edge rusher Zion Carter.
“Coach Johnson breaks everything down like a master teacher,” Simeon said. “Technique, mindset, film — it’s all elite in Columbus.”
Ohio State’s 2026 recruiting class now includes two four-star defensive tackles, a potential edge tandem, and elite skill position talent. The class continues to rise in the national rankings, with Simeon joining:
- Cameron Brickle (DT) – 4⭐️, IMG Academy (FL)
- Zion Carter (EDGE) – 4⭐️, Tampa Bay Tech (FL)
- Tywan Bell (DL) – 4⭐️, Massillon (OH)
- Chris Henry Jr. (WR) – 5⭐️, Withrow (OH)
- Jared Curtis (QB) – 4⭐️, Nashville (TN)
- Marcus Harris (ATH) – 4⭐️, Mater Dei (CA)
The Buckeyes now sit firmly in the Top 3 nationally for the 2026 class, with momentum heading into July visits and a critical fall recruiting window.
- Steve Wiltfong (247Sports):
“Ohio State is building a monster defensive front. Simeon and Brickle together? That’s SEC size in the Big Ten.” - Chad Simmons (On3):
“Larry Johnson does it again. He sees tools early and develops greatness. Simeon’s best football is ahead of him.” - Rivals Recruiting Podcast:
“Buckeyes might have the best D-line class in America if this momentum holds.”
With the commitment of Damari Simeon, Ohio State continues to fortify its defensive front with power, athleticism, and pedigree. This is more than a single recruiting win — it’s a strategic statement that the Buckeyes plan to dominate the line of scrimmage in the expanded College Football Playoff era.
Simeon brings the fire, the fundamentals, and the frame. Now, he brings it to Columbus.
Welcome to the Brotherhood, Damari Simeon.
