Top Ohio State targets make it clear how they feel about departure of OL coach Justin Frye
Change has been rampant for the Ohio State Buckeyes after the program won its first national championship in a decade. Head coach Ryan Day has seen both top coordinators bolt and a few assistants have found promotions elsewhere. It's a natural occurrence that every top team sees happen eventually when a program ascends to a […]
Change has been rampant for the Ohio State Buckeyes after the program won its first national championship in a decade. Head coach Ryan Day has seen both top coordinators bolt and a few assistants have found promotions elsewhere. It's a natural occurrence that every top team sees happen eventually when a program ascends to a title-winner.
The loss of offensive line coach Justin Frye sparked a special interest amongst recruits and fans. The Buckeyes' offensive line has struggled in recruiting of high school talent under Frye's eyes, but did well in landing a few transfer talents and then developing them. He's off to the Arizona Cardinals now.
However, the Buckeyes still have to chase after the top 2026 blockers regardless of this position now being open.
The 5-star tackles to watch include No. 1 overall prospect Jackson Cantwell and Maxwell Riley. Cantwell, frankly, is among the best blocking recruits ever. It'd be a massive win for the Buckeyes to land him, and 4-star guard Riley is another huge target.
Cantwell kept an open mind after seeing Frye's promotion, eluding to conversations where the coach said this was a possibility.
“He did say he would take a good pro job if it came available, and he’s definitely deserving of it. I’m excited to see who they end up hiring.”
Riley was also positive as he decides between Clemson and Ohio State. Riley, from Ohio, lives less than two hours away from Columbus, but there have been rumblings this is truly a toss up situation.
“I’m happy for him and his family. Definitely going to hear out whoever they hire," Riley said.
It’s crucial to recognize that Ryan Day’s 2025 recruiting class is still making a strong impression. According to 247Sports, this class is ranked No. 5 in the nation and features 26 committed players, including three 5-star recruits poised to contribute to the Buckeyes’ championship aspirations.
Even with concerns over Justin Frye’s exit, Ohio State’s 2025 class exemplifies the program’s capability to draw elite talent and uphold its reputation as a powerhouse in college football.
