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Ohio State Buckeyes take a key step in recruitment of five-star weapon, but face an uphill battle still that involves Georgia

Originally posted on A to Z Sports | By Brandon Little | Last updated May 15, 2025 9:51 PM ET

The Ohio State Buckeyes currently hold the No. 3-ranked recruiting class in the country, according to 247Sports, and they are set to host several key visitors on campus over the next month.

Ohio State has secured 13 commitments so far for the class of 2026 and is expected to add to that total soon, as they are among the finalists for several top recruits.

Most recently, the Buckeyes made the final seven for a five-star offensive weapon who could make an immediate impact in Year 1.

Ohio State Buckeyes Make the Cut for Five-Star TE Mark Bowman

Ohio State has taken the next step in the recruitment of the top tight end in the country. The Buckeyes are one of seven schools still in contention for Mater Dei (CA) tight end Mark Bowman. Joining Ohio State in the final group are Georgia, Oregon, USC, Miami, and Ole Miss.

NEWS: Five-Star TE Mark Bowman is down to 7 Schools, he tells me for @on3recruits

The 6’4 228 TE from Huntington Beach, CA is ranked as the No. 1 TE in the ‘26 Class (per On3 Industry)

Where Should He Go?https://t.co/AMo8BpqnxE pic.twitter.com/bAS81dV6yK
— Hayes Fawcett (@Hayesfawcett3) May 15, 2025

Georgia is widely considered the favorite to land the elite tight end, who has drawn comparisons to former Bulldogs star Brock Bowers. Bowman, a 6-foot-4, 225-pound prospect, presents a major matchup problem for opposing defenses. Georgia’s recent commitment from top quarterback Jared Curtis could further boost their chances of landing Bowman.

Bowman is scheduled to take an official visit to Georgia on June 13 but does not currently have one planned for Ohio State. He’ll visit USC the week before and Oregon the week after. As it stands, Ohio State is playing from behind in this recruitment.

In the 2024 season, Bowman recorded 32 receptions for 435 yards and eight touchdowns for California powerhouse Mater Dei. He is primed for a standout senior season and could announce his commitment before the fall.

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

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