Larry Johnson Has a Chance to Land One More Elite Edge Player for Ohio State as Buckeyes Push to Close Strong in 2025 Recruiting Cycle
Legendary defensive line coach Larry Johnson has built a reputation as one of college football’s premier developers of elite pass rushers, and now, as the 2025 recruiting cycle begins to hit its critical final stretch, he has a chance to land one more elite edge player for Ohio State — a move that could solidify the Buckeyes’ defensive future and add another prized talent to Johnson’s already storied legacy.
With multiple blue-chip prospects already committed to the Buckeyes, Johnson and the Ohio State staff are zeroing in on one final edge rusher who could be the crown jewel of this year’s defensive haul. This final push comes at a time when Ohio State is looking not only to reload but to dominate in the trenches, and no one understands the importance of that more than Johnson, whose resume includes NFL stars like Chase Young, Nick and Joey Bosa, and Sam Hubbard.
The player in question — still unnamed publicly due to the sensitivity of ongoing recruitment — is a consensus top-50 national recruit and one of the highest-rated uncommitted edge rushers left on the board. According to multiple recruiting analysts, Ohio State has made significant inroads with the prospect, thanks largely to Johnson’s hands-on approach, proven track record, and the Buckeyes’ consistent presence among college football’s elite programs.
“Coach J is different,” the recruit said in a recent interview. “He doesn’t just talk about development, he shows you. Every guy he works with gets better, and that’s what I want. I want to be coached by someone who knows what it takes.”
Ohio State’s pitch isn’t just about tradition — it’s about producing results. Johnson’s defensive line units are often among the best in the nation, consistently pressuring quarterbacks and anchoring dominant defenses. For an elite edge rusher looking to make the leap to the NFL, it’s hard to find a more attractive developmental environment.
This potential addition would not only cap a stellar class but could help maintain momentum heading into the 2025 season and beyond. The Buckeyes are expected to lose some key defensive linemen to the draft, and securing one more top-tier edge would help bridge the gap and keep Johnson’s pipeline flowing.
Sources close to the situation suggest that Ohio State is among the final two or three schools under serious consideration, with an official visit planned in the coming weeks. Johnson’s presence during these visits could prove to be the deciding factor, especially if he continues to build the kind of trust and personal connection that has long set him apart from other recruiters.
