In another significant recruiting victory, Ohio State University has secured the commitment of four-star outside linebacker Riley Pettijohn, adding to its already formidable 2025 class. The Buckeyes had a week of mixed fortunes, missing out on two top-100 prospects, but landed Pettijohn as the fifth-ranked outside linebacker in this recruiting cycle.

Pettijohn, who is 6-foot-2 and weighs 200 pounds, chose Ohio State over other notable finalists including Texas, USC, and Texas A&M. The talented defender, ranked No. 48 in the ESPN 300, announced his commitment on Instagram, bringing his exceptional skills and athleticism to the Buckeyes. He will join the program as their 16th ESPN 300 pledge and the eighth top-100 recruit on the defensive side.

Currently a senior at McKinney High School in Texas, Pettijohn has excelled not only on the football field but also in track and field. His father, Duke Pettijohn, was a standout defensive lineman for Syracuse University from 1997 to 2000, earning two All-Big East selections. Following in his father's footsteps, Riley Pettijohn is poised to make a significant impact on Ohio State's defense.

Pettijohn's commitment comes on the heels of two other significant recruiting developments for Ohio State. The program recently missed out on top-100 outside linebacker Justin Hill, who chose Alabama, and also experienced the disappointment of top-ranked wide receiver Dakorien Moore committing to Oregon. However, the acquisition of Pettijohn demonstrates the Buckeyes' ability to consistently attract elite talent.

Having received offers from nearly 30 Power 4 schools, Pettijohn narrowed down his options to Ohio State, USC, Texas, and Texas A&M. After official visits to each of these universities, Pettijohn was ultimately persuaded by the recruiting efforts of Buckeyes' defensive coordinator Jim Knowles and linebackers coach James Laurinaitis.

As a player, Pettijohn has showcased his versatility and athleticism throughout his high school career. He has proven himself as an adept tackler and possesses the ability to excel in both edge rushing and traditional linebacker roles. His junior season was particularly impressive, recording 125 total tackles, three sacks, and an interception.

With the addition of Pettijohn, Ohio State's top-ranked 2025 class now stands at 22 pledges. On defense, the Buckeyes' recruiting haul includes top-ranked cornerbacks Na'eem Offord and Devin Sanchez, No. 1 safety Faheem Delane, and a trio of top-10 defensive ends in London Merrit (No. 4 DE in 2025), Zahir Mathis (No. 6), and Zion Grady (No. 10). The commitment of outside linebacker Tarvos Alford, ranked No. 7 in his position, has been secured since March.

Ohio State's ability to attract and recruit such premium defensive talent solidifies their position as one of the premier college football programs nationally. With the addition of Pettijohn, the Buckeyes are poised to boast a dominant defense in the coming years, making them a formidable force to reckon with on the field.