The Ohio State Buckeyes are once again at the center of a heated recruiting war, this time for one of the most sought-after defensive prospects in the 2026 class — Damari Simeon. The battle for the talented four-star defensive tackle is particularly intense, as two of the Buckeyes’ fiercest rivals, the Michigan Wolverines and the Penn State Nittany Lions, are also vying for his commitment. Rounding out Simeon’s top four is another national powerhouse: the Texas Longhorns.
For Buckeye fans, the intensity of this recruitment hits a nerve. The rivalry with Michigan is one of the most storied and passionate in all of college football. It transcends sports and represents decades of competition, pride, and bitter battles on the field. Penn State, while perhaps not as historically hated, has grown into a formidable conference foe, earning a near-equal level of animosity in recent years. So, when Ohio State finds itself in direct competition with both for a prized recruit, the stakes feel even higher.
Damari Simeon is no ordinary prospect. Standing at 6-foot-3 and weighing 275 pounds, he is ranked as the 26th-best defensive lineman in the nation for the 2026 class and holds the distinction of being the third-best overall recruit in the state of New Jersey. His size, explosiveness, and versatility have made him a top target for elite programs, and his skill set fits perfectly with what Ohio State is looking for along the interior of their defensive line.
The Buckeyes have made it clear that Simeon is a major priority. He already took an unofficial visit to Columbus in April, but what makes things even more interesting is his upcoming official visit scheduled for June 20. This visit will be critical for head coach Ryan Day and defensive line coach Larry Johnson, as they look to make a lasting impression and solidify their position in Simeon’s recruitment.
Ohio State’s urgency in landing a player like Simeon is understandable. While the Buckeyes boasted the top-ranked defense in the nation last season — in large part due to their dominant defensive front — that unit has been significantly depleted. All four starting defensive linemen from 2024 declared for the NFL Draft, leaving Ohio State with a pressing need to reload, particularly at the tackle position.
Looking ahead to the 2025 season, Kayden McDonald and Eddrick Houston are expected to anchor the interior line. But beyond that, there are question marks. Securing a commitment from Simeon would not only help fill that impending void, but it would also signal to recruits and rivals alike that Ohio State remains a dominant force on the recruiting trail — especially when it comes to beating Michigan and Penn State off the field.
Simeon’s decision will be one to watch closely as the summer recruiting season heats up. With three bitter rivals — Ohio State, Michigan, and Penn State — all in the mix, and a wildcard in Texas, the race for Damari Simeon is shaping up to be one of the most compelling stories in the 2026 recruiting cycle.