Jonathan Hui-Imagn Images

USC Receives Concerning Visit Update on 4-Star Edge Prospect

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Lorenzo J. Reyna | Last updated Jun 19, 2025 1:34 PM ET

The USC Trojans found themselves linked to Ohio State in a unique way Thursday. One Buckeyes target is leaning toward USC per multiple reports. Yet one four-star dropped a concerning visit update for the Trojans.

Edge rusher from Duncanville, Texas Kevin "K.J." Ford will not be heading to Los Angeles this weekend after all, per Hayes Fawcett of On3. The 6-foot-4 Ford now is heading to Columbus to visit the defending national champions.

Ford's decision comes as the top player in New Jersey Luke Wafle is leaning towards USC over the Buckeyes. He's the brother of Owen Wafle, who transferred to Penn State this offseason.

There's further context into why Ford's move becomes eye-opening on Ohio State's side. USC was long considered "warm" on Ford per 247Sports . Assistant defensive line coach Shaun Nua ran point on Ford's recruitment. But the other schools "warm" on Ford were Alabama, Florida and Texas A&M.

Ohio State was on the "cool" side -- meaning there was no previous reported heavy interest between Ford and OSU. But now the Buckeyes are heating up for the talented defender. Defensive line coach Larry Johnson is the man recruiting Ford to come to the champs.

Ford reeled in 38 total offers and is the No. 16 prospect in the state of Texas per 247Sports. He's also the nation's 11th-ranked edge rusher.

Wafle, meanwhile, ranks higher among the nation's edge rush class. He sits at No. 6 per 247Sports composite rankings. He's also making his college decision on Thursday afternoon.

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

More must-reads: