In a significant recruiting victory, the Ohio State Buckeyes have added yet another promising talent to their top-ranked 2025 recruiting class. Five-star linebacker Riley Pettijohn, a highly sought-after prospect, made his commitment live on 247Sports, choosing Ohio State over Texas, Texas A&M, and USC.

Pettijohn, who hails from McKinney, Texas, will be entering his senior year at McKinney High School. Known for his exceptional speed, he has showcased his athletic prowess both on the football field and in track, boasting an impressive 10.7 second 100-meter dash time. On the gridiron, Pettijohn recorded an impressive 125 tackles in the 2023 season.

The rising star also comes from a football family. His father, Duke Pettijohn, made his mark on the defensive line for Syracuse University from 1997 to 2000. Riley, following in his father's footsteps, has already garnered recognition as the fifth-ranked linebacker prospect in the nation, according to 247Sports. He also holds the distinction of being ranked the tenth overall prospect from the state of Texas.

Examining Pettijohn's skill set, 247Sports scouting analyst Gabe Brooks describes him as an "athletic volume tackler" who can thrive in multiple linebacker roles. With a well-developed build and solid athleticism, he demonstrates broad pursuit range and verified athleticism, enhancing his long-term potential as a stellar linebacker.

This commitment marks Ohio State's 23rd addition to their 2025 recruiting class. Moreover, Pettijohn's ranking within the top-100 of the Top247 Rankings adds to the Buckeyes' impressive tally, with ten recruits already holding such positions. The timing of Pettijohn's commitment provides a boost for Ohio State after their recent disappointment of missing out on four-star linebacker Justin Hill, who chose Alabama instead.

With the addition of Riley Pettijohn, Ohio State continues to solidify its status as one of the premier destinations for top-tier recruits. As the Buckeyes aim to maintain their dominance on the football field, fans eagerly anticipate the impact that Pettijohn's exceptional talent and pedigree will have on the team in the coming seasons.