Ohio State the favorite to land the nation’s No. 1 safety, Bralan Womack, who will announce his decision exactly one month from today

The Ohio State Buckeyes have long been one of the premier programs in college football, regularly attracting the best talent from across the country. However, as the 2025 recruiting cycle heats up, one particular recruit has emerged as a potential game-changer for the Buckeyes: Bralan Womack, the nation’s No. 1 safety prospect. With the announcement date for his college decision set for exactly one month from today, the recruitment of Womack has become one of the most anticipated storylines in college football recruiting.

The No. 1 ranked safety for the class of 2025 is an elite talent, boasting a mix of size, speed, and football IQ that is rare at his position. Womack has been the subject of intense recruitment, with programs like Alabama, Georgia, and Clemson all in the running to land his commitment. However, the Buckeyes have emerged as the clear frontrunner, positioning themselves as the favorite to secure his services.

In this deep dive, we’ll examine why Ohio State has become the favorite in the Womack recruitment, the impact his commitment could have on the program, and what other schools are still in contention as the clock ticks down to his final decision.

Bralan Womack is not your typical safety. Standing at 6’2” and weighing 205 pounds, Womack combines size, athleticism, and versatility in a way few players can. He’s a natural playmaker who thrives in both the passing game and against the run. His ability to read the game is advanced, and his football IQ allows him to be a leader on the field—traits that have led many to believe he can be an immediate contributor at the collegiate level.

Womack has played at a high level of competition for much of his high school career, showcasing the ability to cover wide receivers, tight ends, and running backs, while also being an asset in the box as a physical tackler. His sideline-to-sideline range makes him a constant presence in any secondary, and his ball skills—he has a nose for interceptions—add another dimension to his game. Whether he’s lined up as a traditional safety or used in a more aggressive hybrid role, Womack has proven to be a defensive weapon.

In addition to his athletic abilities, Womack’s mental makeup is impressive. He’s been described as a highly coachable player who understands the intricacies of defensive schemes. His leadership qualities, both on and off the field, make him a coveted recruit for any program hoping to build a strong defensive foundation.

Ohio State has long been a powerhouse in recruiting, and they have built a reputation for developing defensive players who can thrive at the next level. The Buckeyes’ defense has been one of the nation’s best over the past few years, with a focus on speed, versatility, and physicality. This makes them an ideal destination for Womack, who fits the mold of a modern, dynamic safety.

Under head coach Ryan Day and defensive coordinator Jim Knowles, Ohio State has shown its ability to develop elite defensive talent. The Buckeyes have a long history of producing top-tier defensive backs (DBs) who not only thrive in college but also transition seamlessly to the NFL. Players like Malik Hooker, Jeff Okudah, Denzel Ward, and Marshon Lattimore have set the standard for what it means to be a top-tier defensive back at Ohio State.

Womack’s skillset is one that will fit in perfectly with the Buckeyes’ defensive philosophy. Jim Knowles’ aggressive, multiple defense system asks a lot from its safeties, but it also offers players the opportunity to showcase their versatility and playmaking ability. Womack has the athleticism to excel in such a scheme, and he has the potential to be an instant impact player in Columbus.

One of the key factors in the Buckeyes’ pursuit of Womack has been the relationship they’ve built with him over the course of his recruitment. Womack has formed a strong bond with Jim Knowles, who has played a pivotal role in his recruitment. The defensive coordinator has been highly involved in Womack’s recruitment, which has helped Ohio State stay at the forefront of his mind.

Additionally, Womack has had numerous opportunities to visit Ohio State’s campus and see the program firsthand. These visits have helped him get a feel for what life at Ohio State would be like, and it’s clear that the Buckeyes’ culture, facilities, and overall program have made a significant impact on his decision-making process.

The family atmosphere in the Ohio State program is another selling point. Womack has spoken highly of the relationships he’s built with players and coaches during his visits, which is important when making such a major decision. As a player who values both success on the field and personal growth, Ohio State’s emphasis on developing young men, not just athletes, is a major plus.

One of the most attractive aspects of Ohio State’s pitch to Womack is the immediate opportunity for playing time. While the Buckeyes have a deep roster, they are currently looking to add a player of Womack’s caliber to their secondary. Ohio State’s defense has a history of utilizing its safeties in a variety of ways, and they don’t hesitate to play their best players early on.

Given Womack’s elite talent and physical gifts, he would be a prime candidate to step in and contribute immediately. Ohio State is looking for a game-changer in their secondary, and Womack fits that mold perfectly. He could come in and make an impact on both passing downs and run support, giving the Buckeyes defense a new level of versatility.

While the Buckeyes are the favorite to land Womack, they’re far from the only program in the running. Some of the nation’s most successful and storied programs have made their pitch for Womack’s commitment, and they’re not going down without a fight.

1. Alabama

No conversation about top recruits is complete without mentioning Alabama. The Crimson Tide, under head coach Nick Saban, have been a powerhouse in college football for over a decade, and their recruiting prowess is second to none. Alabama has long been a major player in recruiting top-tier defensive backs, and their reputation for developing NFL talent is a big selling point for Womack.

Womack has visited Alabama multiple times, and he’s developed a strong relationship with their coaching staff. However, the competition at Alabama’s defensive backfield could be a factor in Womack’s decision. While the opportunity to play for Saban is undoubtedly tempting, there may be concerns about having to compete for playing time in a deep, well-stocked secondary.

2. Georgia

The Georgia Bulldogs have emerged as a major contender in Womack’s recruitment, and rightfully so. Under head coach Kirby Smart, Georgia has established itself as one of the premier programs in the country, especially on the defensive side of the ball. The Bulldogs have consistently produced top-level safeties and linebackers, and their defense is widely regarded as one of the best in the nation.

With Georgia coming off a national championship victory and their consistent success in recruiting, it’s no surprise that Womack has shown significant interest in their program. Georgia’s defensive system could provide Womack with the chance to shine, and their recent success will certainly factor into his decision.

3. Clemson

Clemson, another powerhouse program, has made its pitch to Womack as well. Under head coach Dabo Swinney, the Tigers have built a strong reputation for developing defensive players, particularly in the secondary. Their aggressive defense and emphasis on recruiting top-tier talent make them a strong contender to land Womack.

While Clemson is a perennial playoff contender, they may face an uphill battle in this recruitment given Womack’s strong ties to Ohio State. However, the Tigers’ recent success in the ACC and their ability to recruit elite prospects cannot be overlooked.

With exactly one month left until Bralan Womack announces his decision, the clock is ticking. The recruitment of Womack will undoubtedly be one of the most closely watched storylines in the recruiting world, and the Buckeyes are in prime position to land his commitment.

Ohio State has put itself in the driver’s seat, thanks to its stellar coaching staff, strong relationship with Womack, and ability to offer the opportunity for immediate playing time. The Buckeyes are the favorite, but with elite programs like Alabama, Georgia, and Clemson still in the mix, Womack’s decision remains one of the biggest mysteries of the 2025 recruiting cycle.

Regardless of where he ends up, there’s no question that Womack will be a game-changer at the next level. Whether he joins Ohio State’s elite defense or another powerhouse program, his impact will be felt across college football for years to come. As the days tick down to his commitment, all eyes will be on Womack—and the future of college football’s elite safeties.