From ‘Farm Kid’ to Football Star: How a 4-Star 2026 Arkansas Tackle Caught Ohio State’s Eye
Evan Goodwin, a 6-foot-7, 325-pound offensive tackle from Bauxite High School in Arkansas, has rapidly ascended the ranks of high school football. Once a “farm kid,” Goodwin’s exceptional talent has garnered national attention, culminating in a scholarship offer from Ohio State University.
A Rising Star
Goodwin’s journey began on his family’s farm in Arkansas, where he balanced academics with responsibilities like feeding animals and maintaining equipment. Despite these commitments, he excelled in football, earning a four-star composite ranking from 247Sports.com. He is currently rated as the No. 4 overall player in Arkansas and stands among the top 30 offensive tackles nationally.
Ohio State’s Interest
On February 17, 2025, Ohio State’s newly appointed offensive line coach, Tyler Bowen, extended a scholarship offer to Goodwin. This gesture was both unexpected and thrilling for Goodwin, who expressed his excitement on social media, stating, “Lets Go! After a great call with @TylerBowen and @OhioStateFB I have been offered by the National Champs!”
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Upcoming Visit
Recognizing the significance of this opportunity, Goodwin has scheduled a spring visit to Ohio State. He plans to be in Columbus from March 27 to 28, 2025, to further explore the program and its facilities. Reflecting on his interest, Goodwin noted, “I feel like they are very interested in me and I want to go to a school that wants me and wants to work with me to get better.”
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Building Relationships
Beyond football, Goodwin has developed personal connections within the Ohio State community. He mentioned that former Ohio State player Paris Johnson Jr. and Johnson’s mother reached out to him, highlighting the supportive network of the program. Goodwin remarked, “I feel like they are very interested in me and I want to go to a school that wants me and wants to work with me to get better.”
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Looking Ahead
As Goodwin’s recruitment unfolds, he remains grounded in his roots. Despite the attention and accolades, he continues to value the work ethic and humility instilled in him from his upbringing. His story serves as a testament to dedication, talent, and the unexpected paths that lead to collegiate athletics.
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