Ohio State University has recently received encouraging news regarding its pursuit of Jackson Cantwell, a five-star offensive tackle from Nixa High School in Missouri. Cantwell, who is the consensus No. 1 ranked offensive lineman in the 2026 recruiting class and Rivals.com’s top-rated overall player, has a projected NIL (Name, Image, and Likeness) value of $730,000, according to On3.
Cantwell has included Ohio State in his top six schools, alongside Georgia, Miami, Michigan, Missouri, and Oregon. He plans to visit Miami, Ohio State, and Michigan during the third week of March, aiming to observe spring practices and further engage with the coaching staffs.
This development is significant for Ohio State, as securing a commitment from a player of Cantwell’s caliber would bolster their offensive line and enhance their recruiting class. The projected NIL value underscores the growing importance of NIL opportunities in college football recruiting, highlighting the financial incentives that top-tier recruits can command.
In recent months, Ohio State has been active in securing high-profile recruits and NIL deals. Wide receiver Jeremiah Smith, for instance, has been offered substantial NIL deals, with reports suggesting offers between $4.5 and $5 million to leave Ohio State via the transfer portal. Additionally, quarterback Julian Sayin transferred to Ohio State and signed NIL deals with Panini America and The Foundation collective.
The competitive landscape for top recruits is intensifying, with programs leveraging NIL opportunities to attract and retain talent. Ohio State’s proactive engagement in this arena reflects their commitment to building a competitive team and capitalizing on the evolving dynamics of college football recruiting.
As Cantwell’s recruitment progresses, Ohio State’s ability to effectively present their program and NIL opportunities will be crucial in their efforts to secure his commitment. The outcome of this recruitment could have significant implications for the team’s future performance and recruiting strategy.
In summary, Ohio State’s recent developments in recruiting and NIL deals underscore the university’s strategic approach to building a competitive football program. The potential addition of Jackson Cantwell would be a significant boost to their offensive line and overall recruitin
g efforts.