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Ohio State Buckeyes receive first commitment at a position of need and they went all the way across the country to land it

Originally posted on A to Z Sports | By Brandon Little | Last updated Jun 11, 2025 10:08 AM ET

The Ohio State Buckeyes are having a strong week on the recruiting trail, as June was always expected to be a pivotal month in Columbus.

The Buckeyes have hosted a slew of official visitors, and now they’ve landed commitment No. 14 with four-star running back Favour Akih. Shortly after, Ohio State secured commitment No. 15 — and this one stands out.

Commitment No. 15 is special because it marks the first pledge for defensive line coach Larry Johnson in the 2026 class. Ohio State went all the way to California to get their guy.

Four-star EDGE Khary Wilder commits to Ohio State over Notre Dame and others

On Tuesday evening, Ohio State picked up its first defensive line commitment for the 2026 cycle by landing four-star Junípero Serra (CA) EDGE Khary Wilder. He chose the Buckeyes over Notre Dame, Washington, and UCLA.

Landing Johnson’s first pass rusher in the class is a significant step — and the Buckeyes got a good one. According to the 247Sports Composite, Wilder is the No. 242 player nationally and the No. 23 EDGE. At 6-foot-4 and 260 pounds entering the summer before his junior season, Wilder also projects as a potential interior pass rusher at the next level.

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Scouting Report via 247Sports:

“Wilder will be a rare four-year starter for the Cavs and just keeps getting better every time we see him. He’s a dominant inside/outside lineman who probably projects best long term as a three-tech or traditional tackle. He’s continuing to grow and fill out and boasts a solid 6-4, 250 frame with an 80” wingspan and huge hands. He shows off natural pass-rush skill and can beat an opposing guard or tackle with quickness and power. He plays with grown-man strength, can toss an opposing lineman aside, and gets a solid push even against a double team. He has a relentless motor as well and is one of those players that just keeps coming.” — Greg Biggins, 247Sports

Ohio State is heating up again on the recruiting trail — and this may not be the last commitment of the month. The next few weekends promise to be busy in Columbus, and the 2026 class could continue to grow as a result.

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

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