Ohio State may have their own fireworks to celebrate on Independence Day, but they’re going to have to beat out some major SEC programs

The Buckeyes do not yet have a true defensive tackle commit in the 2026 class, and Ruffin would fill that void. He is ranked No. 237 nationally and the No. 30 defensive lineman in the 247Sports Composite.

Ruffin, listed at 6-foot-4 and 290 pounds, has already taken his official visit to Columbus. He still has visits to Alabama and LSU scheduled before his commitment, and the leader in his recruitment remains unclear.

247 Sports scouting report: “Big body defensive lineman that shows the ability to impact the game at multiple positions in a three-down front. Estimated at 6-foot-4 and 290-pounds, Ruffin is primarily positioned as a five technique with the ability to slide inside situationally as a nose tackle. A good athlete for his size, the Alabama native typically relies more on his natural athleticism more so than his stout frame and play strength to penetrate opposing backfields. In addition, the position versatile defensive lineman exhibits good first step quickness and explosiveness off the line of scrimmage while showing the ability to bend and redirect extremely well at a near 300-pounds. — Cooper Petagna, 247 Sports 

Coach Johnson and the Buckeyes are firmly in the mix and would welcome Ruffin’s commitment as a key addition to the future of their defensive front.