In a seismic shift in the college football recruiting landscape, five-star defensive end Richard Wesley has officially decommitted from the University of Oregon and switched his commitment to Ohio State University, choosing the Buckeyes over a competitive list of finalists that included Texas, Tennessee, and Texas A&M.
Wesley, regarded as one of the great defensive talents in the 2025 recruiting class, is listed among the top ten players nationwide and the second-best edge rusher by various recruiting agencies. Standing 6-foot-5 and weighing 250 pounds, the Georgia native has caught the attention of every major Power Five program in the country thanks to his exceptional athleticism, explosive first step, and excellent football IQ.
His initial commitment to Oregon earlier this year was viewed as a huge coup for Ducks head coach Dan Lanning, especially as the team strives for a defensive identity in the Big Ten. However, Wesley’s choice to restart his recruitment in late spring sparked speculation that colleges closer to home—and conventional defensive juggernauts—were making a big push.
Following a visit to Columbus, Ohio State jumped to the top of Wesley’s list, where he reportedly connected intimately with Buckeyes head coach Ryan Day and famous defensive line coach Larry Johnson. “Ohio State’s development track record on the defensive line is second to none,” Wesley stated in his commitment announcement. “I’ve seen how they turn raw talent into first-round picks, and I want to be a part of that tradition.”
The move is a big setback for Oregon, which had envisioned Wesley as the anchor of its 2025 defensive class. Despite a strong NIL pitch and a defensive-minded coaching staff, the Ducks couldn’t hold off the late charge from Ohio State.
Meanwhile, Texas, Tennessee, and Texas A&M were all heavily involved in the final weeks. Texas impressed Wesley with its facilities and newly formed defensive staff under Steve Sarkisian. Tennessee presented a convincing case based on early playing time and scheme fit. Texas A&M, still reeling from coaching turnover and identity issues, offered a revised vision but fell short.
Ultimately, Ohio State’s steadiness, defensive success tradition, and player development pipeline were too powerful to ignore. Wesley’s transfer makes him the centerpiece of the Buckeyes’ 2025 recruiting class, and his presence might propel Ohio State’s class ranking into the national top three.
Recruiting insiders believe Wesley’s dedication will have a wide-ranging impact. Several top defensive prospects are close to him, and his decision might help the Buckeyes land more quality players before early signing day.
For the time being, Ohio State fans can enjoy the acquisition of a game-changing player, while Oregon, Texas, Tennessee, and Texas A&M regroup and seek to secure Plan B options in the trenches.
As one national recruiting analyst stated:
“When a guy like Richard Wesley flips this late in the game, it’s more than just a victory; it’s a statement. Ohio State is aiming for national championships, not just Big Ten triumphs.