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Ohio State puts themselves in the mix for elite five-star cornerback who could be next up for the Buckeyes

Originally posted on A to Z Sports | By Brandon Little | Last updated May 20, 2025 2:18 PM ET

The Ohio State Buckeyes didn’t land another Jeremiah Smith during the 2025 recruiting cycle — because there wasn’t one. The best the Buckeyes could do was sign a five-star cornerback who has a chance to make a significant impact as a freshman.

Devin Sanchez is expected to see the field early in his Ohio State career as the next standout defensive back in Columbus. He has the potential to be the best cornerback the Buckeyes have had in several years. A first round talent that won’t have to be on the sidelines for long waiting for playing time.

Ohio State is already on the hunt for more elite talent in the secondary, and they’ve set their sights on one of the top cornerbacks in the 2027 class, extending an early offer.

Ohio State Buckeyes Offer Five-Star CB Joshua Dobson

With an offer extended to Catawba Ridge (SC) cornerback Joshua Dobson, the Buckeyes are positioning themselves as a program to watch in his recruitment. Dobson, a 6-foot-1, 175-pound defensive back, already holds nearly 30 offers.

Extremely Blessed to Receive a from THE OHIO STATE UNIVERSITY @OGWalt_ @DC15sports @SC_DBGROUP @JibrilleFewell @the_real_GP @ZLendyak @JamaleFoster
@coachturner5 @CoachSweeting @Coach_Swagg4 @SWiltfong_ @AnnaH247 @samspiegs @ChadSimmons_ @adamgorney @247recruiting pic.twitter.com/7kZXYSHxPH
— Joshua Dobson (@JoshDobsonDB) May 19, 2025

While Ohio State is primarily focused on finalizing the 2026 recruiting class, they’ve begun casting a wider net for 2027 and even 2028 prospects. Securing an elite cornerback in 2027 will be crucial — especially if they don’t land one in 2026.

Dobson was an All-State selection in 2024, recording 48 tackles, 10 pass breakups, and three interceptions. He also showcased his playmaking ability by returning two kickoffs for touchdowns. The exact kind of athlete that Ryan Day would love to add to the program.

Expect the Buckeyes to stay in close contact with Dobson and continue building the relationship necessary to earn a potential commitment down the line.

This article first appeared on A to Z Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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