Ohio State Buckeyes head coach Ryan Day has once again demonstrated his prowess on the recruiting trail by securing commitments from some of the nation’s top defensive talents. Notably, the Buckeyes have bolstered their defensive line with the addition of elite edge rushers, underscoring the program’s commitment to maintaining a dominant defense in the coming seasons.

 

**Eddrick Houston: A Five-Star Acquisition**

 

In December 2023, Ohio State successfully fended off a late push from Alabama to secure the commitment of five-star edge rusher Eddrick Houston. Standing at 6-foot-3 and weighing 265 pounds, Houston hails from Buford, Georgia, and was ranked among the top 30 recruits nationally in the 2024 class. His decision to join the Buckeyes was a significant win for Coach Day and his staff, reflecting the program’s strong appeal to top defensive prospects.

 

Since his arrival in Columbus, Houston has made a notable impact. Initially recruited as a defensive end, he has transitioned to the defensive tackle position, showcasing his versatility and adaptability. Head coach Ryan Day has expressed confidence in Houston’s potential, stating, “I think he’s got a very bright future ahead of him. He has the size, the strength, and the toughness to play inside.” This position switch underscores Houston’s athleticism and the coaching staff’s strategic vision for his development within the Buckeyes’ defensive scheme.

 

**Epi Sitanilei: A Strategic Flip**

 

Further strengthening their defensive lineup, the Buckeyes secured a commitment from four-star edge rusher Epi Sitanilei in December 2024. Originally committed to UCLA, Sitanilei flipped his commitment to Ohio State during the Early Signing Period. At 6-foot-5 and 220 pounds, he played a pivotal role in leading St. John Bosco to the California Interscholastic Federation Southern Section Division I championship game. Sitanilei’s senior season was marked by impressive statistics, including 59 tackles, six tackles for loss, four pass deflections, and half a sack. His decision to join Ohio State reflects the program’s national recruiting reach and its ability to attract top talent from across the country.

 

**Looking Ahead: Zion Elee’s Consideration**

 

The Buckeyes’ recruiting momentum continues as they remain in contention for five-star edge rusher Zion Elee from Baltimore, Maryland. Elee, ranked as the No. 1 edge rusher in the 2026 recruiting class, announced his top five schools in August 2024, with Ohio State making the list alongside Penn State, Oregon, Alabama, and Georgia. Standing at 6-foot-5 and weighing 228 pounds, Elee’s inclusion of Ohio State in his considerations highlights the program’s sustained appeal to elite defensive prospects.

 

**Conclusion**

 

Under Coach Ryan Day’s leadership, Ohio State continues to assert itself as a premier destination for elite defensive talent. The commitments of players like Eddrick Houston and Epi Sitanilei, coupled with ongoing pursuits of top prospects like Zion Elee, underscore the program’s dedication to building a formidable defense. As these players develop and integrate into the Buckeyes’ system, fans can anticipate a continuation of the defensive excellence that has become synonymous with Ohio State football.