
Jakob Weatherspoon, a four-star athlete from Avon, Ohio, has committed to the Ohio State Buckeyes, marking a significant addition to their 2026 recruiting class.
Weatherspoon, standing at 5-foot-11 and weighing 172 pounds, is ranked as the No. 164 overall prospect and the No. 9 athlete in the 2026 class, according to 247Sports Composite rankings.
Weatherspoon’s commitment comes on the heels of Ohio State’s impressive 41-21 victory over the No. 1 ranked Oregon Ducks in the Rose Bowl, propelling the Buckeyes into the College Football Playoff semifinals. This win, coupled with Weatherspoon’s decision, underscores the program’s momentum both on the field and in recruiting.
Hailing from Avon High School, Weatherspoon has been instrumental in his team’s success, contributing to a perfect 16-0 season that culminated in a state championship. His versatility is evident, having played multiple positions in high school, though he is projected to play cornerback at the collegiate level. His athleticism extends beyond the football field; he is a district qualifier in the 200-meter dash, showcasing his speed and agility.
Ohio State’s recruitment of Weatherspoon has been persistent and strategic. The Buckeyes extended a scholarship offer on June 5, following his standout performance at their one-day camp. Since then, cornerbacks coach Tim Walton and defensive quality control coach Gerren DuHart have maintained regular communication, emphasizing the program’s interest and commitment. Weatherspoon has reciprocated this interest, attending multiple Ohio State games, including matchups against Indiana and Michigan.
In choosing Ohio State, Weatherspoon turned down offers from several prominent programs, including Penn State, Oregon, Notre Dame, Michigan, Michigan State, Wisconsin, Illinois, Cincinnati, Vanderbilt, and Syracuse. His decision to stay in-state and join the Buckeyes highlights Ohio State’s success in retaining top local talent.
Weatherspoon’s commitment makes him the first defensive player in Ohio State’s 2026 recruiting class, joining offensive talents such as five-star wide receiver Chris Henry Jr., three-star tight end Corbyn Fordham, and three-star wide receiver Jaeden Ricketts. This addition elevates Ohio State’s class to No. 8 in the 2026 On3 Industry Team Recruiting Rankings, with ample time remaining until National Signing Day.
Weatherspoon’s skill set as a fast and physical cornerback with excellent coverage abilities positions him as a potential early contributor for the Buckeyes. Analysts project that he could become a two or three-year starter, with the potential to develop into a future first-round NFL draft pick. His ability to play both inside and outside corner positions adds valuable versatility to Ohio State’s defensive backfield.
The timing of Weatherspoon’s commitment, shortly after Ohio State’s Rose Bowl triumph, reflects the program’s current upward trajectory. As the Buckeyes prepare for their upcoming semifinal matchup against the Texas Longhorns, the addition of a high-caliber recruit like Weatherspoon further bolsters the team’s future prospects. His decision also underscores Ohio State’s effective recruiting strategies and their ability to attract top talent both locally and nationally.
In summary, Jakob Weatherspoon’s commitment to Ohio State represents a significant win for the Buckeyes, both in terms of securing a talented defensive player and in maintaining their recruiting momentum following a major bowl victory. His athleticism, versatility, and proximity to the university make him a valuable addition to Ohio State’s 2026 class, with the potential to make a substantial impact in the years to come.