Highly Touted Star Sends Clear Message on Ohio State

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Dave Holcomb | Last updated May 25, 2025 5:15 PM ET

The top 2026 recruit in New Jersey has the Ohio State Buckeyes in his top five schools. Head coach Ryan Day and the Buckeyes will have an opportunity to leave a further impression on the prospect during an official visit sometime within the next month.

New Jersey's top prospect, Luke Wafle, who is also the No. 6 edge rusher in the 2026 class according to the 247 Sports composite rankings, told On3's Chad Simmons on Sunday what he expects from the Buckeyes during the visit.

“I want to see Ohio State’s plan for me on the official visit. I am excited to spend more time with coach Johnson too," Wafle said. "He came by my house the other day for dinner and he is a great coach.

"Coach Johnson excites me about Ohio State. That is the first thing that comes to mind. His whole career has been about developing players."

Wafle also explained to Simmons what else he likes about the Buckeyes.

"Along with coach Johnson, I like the competitive atmosphere and how everyone strives for winning at Ohio State too," added Wafle.

Hun School (NJ) elite edge rusher Luke Wafle has his top four of Ohio State, Penn State, Texas and USC with officials set to each program: https://t.co/RomnlVnYnM pic.twitter.com/EYxpt4ouKZ
— Steve Wiltfong (@SWiltfong_) May 14, 2025

In addition to Ohio State, Wafle has the Florida Gators, Penn State Nittany Lions, Texas Longhorns and USC Trojans in his top five.

The edge rusher already saw the Gators on an official visit. Wafle was highly complimentary of Florida after the visit.

Next, he will visit his other four top schools over the next month. Wafle is expected to make his decision shortly after his final visit in late June.

The 247 Sports composite rankings also have Wafle rated as the No. 54 overall recruit in the 2026 class.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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