
Ohio State University’s football program has recently made significant strides in bolstering its defensive lineup, particularly with the commitment of five-star linebacker Riley Pettijohn.
Pettijohn, hailing from McKinney, Texas, is regarded as the No. 2 linebacker in the 2025 recruiting class.
Pettijohn’s decision to join the Buckeyes is a testament to the recruiting prowess of James Laurinaitis, Ohio State’s linebackers coach. Laurinaitis, a former standout linebacker for the Buckeyes and a three-time All-American, has been instrumental in identifying and securing top-tier talent for the program. His firsthand experience and deep understanding of the linebacker position have resonated with recruits like Pettijohn, who seek to develop under his guidance.
Pettijohn’s on-field performance has been nothing short of impressive. Standing at 6-foot-2 and weighing 205 pounds, he has demonstrated exceptional athleticism and football IQ. During his junior season at McKinney High School, Pettijohn amassed 120 tackles, 10 tackles for loss, three sacks, five pass breakups, and one interception.
Laurinaitis has praised Pettijohn’s ability to “see the game at the second level,” highlighting his instinctual play and ability to read offenses effectively. This skill set is crucial for a linebacker, as it enables them to anticipate plays, position themselves advantageously, and make impactful stops. Under Laurinaitis’s mentorship, Pettijohn is expected to further hone these abilities, potentially becoming a cornerstone of Ohio State’s defense in the coming years.
The Buckeyes’ recruitment strategy has not only focused on individual talents like Pettijohn but also on building a cohesive and formidable defensive unit. Alongside Pettijohn, Ohio State has secured commitments from other highly regarded defensive prospects, aiming to maintain their reputation for producing elite defenses.
In a lighter vein, Ohio State’s coaching staff has been known to engage in playful banter with recruits who choose other programs. Recently, some recruits opted for the University of Oregon over Ohio State. In response, the Buckeyes’ social media channels and coaching staff have shared light-hearted messages, wishing the recruits well while subtly reminding them of what they might be missing in Columbus. This approach maintains relationships and leaves the door open for future interactions, should circumstances change.
Ohio State’s recruiting success, particularly in securing talents like Pettijohn, underscores the program’s commitment to excellence and its strategic approach to building a championship-contending team. With a blend of experienced coaching, a storied football tradition, and a focus on player development, the Buckeyes continue to attract top talent nationwide.
As Pettijohn prepares to transition to the collegiate level, fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see how his skills translate to Ohio State’s defensive schemes. Given his track record and the mentorship he’ll receive from Laurinaitis, expectations are high for this promising linebacker.