In 2026, highly sought-after wide receiver Madden Williams, as reported by Jordan Scruggs of 247Sports, caught the attention of college football programs nationwide. Amidst Ohio State’s bustling spring activities, the Buckeyes made a notable move by officially extending an offer to Williams, hailing from Bellflower, CA and representing St. John Bosco High School.
Williams showcased his skills across various camps and events throughout the spring, leaving a lasting impression on scouts and analysts. Notably, at the final regional event of Overtime’s OT7 season, he stood out as one of the top performers, earning praise for his versatility and knack for creating separation on the field. With an impressive track record, including a standout sophomore season at Bellflower St. John Bosco, where he amassed 42 receptions for 496 yards and five touchdowns, Williams has garnered attention from top-tier programs like Penn State, Florida State, Tennessee, and SMU, in addition to Ohio State.
Ohio State’s focus on recruiting excellence is evident, particularly in their pursuit of top talent like Williams. Led by receivers coach Brian Hartline, the Buckeyes have already secured a commitment from five-star receiver Chris Henry Jr., solidifying their position as contenders for the 2026 class.
Meanwhile, Ohio State’s ambitions extend beyond Williams, as they actively vie for other top prospects. Recent developments saw Dakorien Moore, a coveted five-star receiver from Duncanville, TX, officially decommit from LSU, bringing him within closer reach for the Buckeyes. Despite stiff competition from Texas and Oregon, Ohio State remains a formidable contender in the race to secure Moore’s commitment, with Hartline leading the charge.
In the realm of basketball, Ohio State’s men’s team, under the guidance of Jake Diebler, is also making waves. EJ Walker, a talented power forward from Erlanger, KY, announced Ohio State among his top choices, alongside Purdue, South Carolina, and Wisconsin. Additionally, the Buckeyes have set their sights on Caleb Wilson, a five-star power forward from Atlanta, GA, who has expressed interest in visiting Ohio State during the football season, underscoring the university’s allure across multiple sports.
