Ohio State Secures Top Offensive Tackle Maxwell Riley in Record-Breaking $230M Deal
Columbus, OH – February 14, 2025
In a major recruiting victory, the Ohio State Buckeyes have secured the commitment of top offensive tackle Maxwell Riley over Clemson, inking a staggering four-year contract worth $230 million. Riley, a standout from Avon Lake, was one of the most sought-after recruits in the nation, and his decision solidifies Ohio State’s dominance in the race for elite talent.
A Game-Changing Commitment
The 6’6”, 315-pound lineman has been a force on the field, displaying remarkable agility, power, and technique that made him the No. 1 offensive tackle prospect in his class. Both Ohio State and Clemson pursued him aggressively, but in the end, the Buckeyes emerged victorious.
“Ohio State felt like home,” Riley said in a statement. “The coaching staff, the culture, and the tradition of excellence made this an easy decision for me. I’m excited to be part of something special and can’t wait to contribute.”
Historic Contract
Riley’s $230 million contract sets a new benchmark for collegiate athletes, reflecting the growing influence of NIL (Name, Image, and Likeness) deals and the shifting landscape of college football. This deal surpasses previous records and signals the increasing financial power of powerhouse programs like Ohio State.
Buckeyes head coach Ryan Day expressed excitement about Riley’s decision, stating, “Maxwell is an elite talent with a work ethic that matches his ability. He’s exactly the kind of player we want to build our future around.”
What This Means for Ohio State
Ohio State’s offensive line gets a massive boost with Riley’s commitment, further strengthening their bid for national championship contention. With star quarterback Devin Brown at the helm and a strong supporting cast, the Buckeyes are positioning themselves as a dominant force in college football.
Meanwhile, Clemson’s loss of Riley is a significant setback in their recruiting efforts. The Tigers had hoped to add him to their offensive front to compete in the highly competitive ACC, but Ohio State’s deep ties and lucrative NIL backing proved too strong to overcome.
Looking Ahead
Riley is expected to enroll at Ohio State in the summer of 2025, with expectations that he will become a key figure on the Buckeyes’ offensive line. As the college football world reacts to this record-breaking deal, all eyes will be on Riley as he steps onto the field in scarlet and gray.
Stay tuned for further updates as Ohio State continues to build for the future.