An overview of the key players in Ohio State’s 2025 recruiting class.

Ohio State’s 2025 recruiting class is filled with talent, but who are the standout players?

As it stands, Ohio State leads the rankings for the 2025 recruiting cycle with a class of 26 recruits. The Buckeyes are excited about the players they’ve secured so far, although they still have a few available spots to fill.

Among these recruits, who are the most vital for the Buckeyes’ future success? While opinions may vary, this perspective highlights the key players in Ohio State’s class and illustrates how significantly their roster would differ without them.

Tavien St. Clair

Arguably the most obvious choice in this class, St. Clair’s importance to Ohio State’s 2025 recruiting class can’t be overstated. Ranked as the No. 6 player nationally and the second-best quarterback in the country according to the 247Sports Composite, his rankings alone make him a coveted recruit, but there’s much more that drew the Buckeyes to him.

Ryan Day has emphasized that securing a quarterback is essential in every recruiting class. Ohio State’s coaching staff has a strong track record of landing elite quarterback prospects, and by stockpiling top-tier talent at the position, they increase their chances of having one or more lead the team to its ultimate goals. St. Clair’s commitment boosts those odds even further.

Additionally, as an in-state player, Ohio State had the advantage of recognizing St. Clair’s talent early and watching him evolve into the standout player he is today. There’s no doubt that St. Clair is expected to be the next quarterback to lead the team toward its ultimate goals. Not only is he a key recruit on the field, but he’s also a leader off the field, playing an active role in peer recruiting. It’s hard not to view him as the most crucial member of this class, and without his commitment, the 2025 haul would feel significantly different.

Devin Sanchez

Ranked as the No. 5 player nationally and the top cornerback in the 2025 class according to the 247Sports Composite, Sanchez adds yet another elite talent to Ohio State’s roster. A national recruit with offers from every major program, securing the defensive back from Texas is a significant achievement, further establishing position coach Tim Walton as one of the best in college football at developing top-tier talent.

In today’s offense-driven college football landscape, having lockdown defensive backs is essential for a defense to succeed. Sanchez brings exactly that and more. At 6-foot-2 and 175 pounds, he has the ideal frame coaches seek in a cornerback who can not only shut down passing attacks but also serve as a run-stopping presence.

Sanchez is the highest-ranked defensive player in Ohio State’s 2025 class, making him invaluable for his on-field talent. But his importance goes beyond just his abilities—his family has played a pivotal role in solidifying his commitment. They’ve become true ambassadors for Ohio State, repeatedly advocating for the program.

With his well-rounded skills and strong commitment, Sanchez is undoubtedly one of the top three recruits Ohio State is set to sign in this class, and he’s a must-have for the Buckeyes’ future success.

Carter Lowe

Lowe is a crucial addition, especially given the importance of the offensive line, and specifically the offensive tackle position. Ohio State has faced challenges recruiting elite national prospects at tackle, often coming up short, which makes Lowe’s commitment all the more significant.

Ranked as the No. 54 player nationally and the seventh-best tackle in the class according to the 247Sports Composite, Lowe is undeniably a top-tier national recruit. His presence in the class strengthens Ohio State’s offensive line group, which still needs more depth. It’s hard to imagine what this class would feel like without securing an in-state talent like Lowe.

Additionally, seeing how the offensive line has performed this season has instilled confidence in offensive line coach Justin Frye, despite the recruiting challenges faced earlier. Lowe’s commitment provides much-needed optimism and solidifies the offensive line’s future.