Ohio State University has made significant strides in bolstering its 2025 recruiting class, particularly on the defensive line. In a series of strategic commitments, the Buckeyes have secured pledges from several elite four-star defensive linemen, enhancing their defensive front for the future.
**Trajen Odom**
On June 28, 2024, Ohio State received a commitment from Trajen Odom, a four-star defensive lineman from Weddington High School in Matthews, North Carolina. Standing 6-foot-4 and weighing 285 pounds, Odom is ranked as the No. 283 overall recruit nationally, the 31st-best defensive lineman, and the seventh-best player in North Carolina, according to 247Sports composite rankings. He chose Ohio State over prominent programs like USC and Oregon.
Odom cited the coaching staff, particularly defensive line coach Larry Johnson, as a pivotal factor in his decision. He expressed confidence in Johnson’s ability to develop players for the NFL, stating, “I’m choosing Ohio State because Coach Johnson is the G.O.A.T. (greatest of all time). He really puts his guys in the NFL.” Odom also praised head coach Ryan Day for positioning the program for national championships and highlighted the supportive fan base in Columbus. citeturn0search3
**Maxwell Roy**
Shortly after Odom’s commitment, on July 1, 2024, the Buckeyes added another four-star defensive lineman, Maxwell Roy, from St. Joseph’s Prep in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Roy, measuring 6-foot-3 and 285 pounds, is ranked as the No. 229 prospect nationally, the 26th-best defensive lineman, and the eighth-best player in Pennsylvania. He selected Ohio State over Michigan and Rutgers, emphasizing the program’s legacy and the opportunity to thrive in Columbus. citeturn0search1
**Jarquez Carter**
The momentum continued with the commitment of Jarquez Carter on July 18, 2024. Hailing from Newberry, Florida, Carter is a four-star defensive lineman standing 6-foot-2 and weighing 284 pounds. He is ranked as the No. 394 overall player in the class, the 42nd-best defensive lineman, and the 55th-best player in Florida. Carter chose Ohio State over Miami, UCF, and Penn State, expressing enthusiasm about bringing a national championship to Columbus. citeturn0search4
**Collective Impact**
These commitments reflect Ohio State’s strategic focus on strengthening its defensive line under the guidance of coach Larry Johnson. The addition of Odom, Roy, and Carter brings versatility and depth to the Buckeyes’ defensive front, positioning the team for sustained success in the coming seasons. Their decisions to join Ohio State underscore the program’s national appeal and its reputation for developing NFL-caliber talent.
As the Buckeyes continue to build their 2025 class, the emphasis on recruiting top-tier defensive linemen demonstrates a commitment to maintaining a dominant defense, essential for competing at the highest levels of college football.
