BREAKING: No. 1 LB and 5-Star Recruit Tyler Atkinson Commits to Ohio State Football After Coaches’ Visit
In a major recruiting victory for Ohio State, the No. 1 linebacker in the nation, 5-star Tyler Atkinson, has officially committed to the Buckeyes. The announcement comes shortly after a high-profile visit from the Ohio State coaching staff to Atkinson’s home in Georgia, sealing what has been one of the most anticipated decisions in the 2025 recruiting cycle.
Atkinson, a 6-foot-3, 215-pound defensive powerhouse out of Grayson High School, had offers from nearly every elite program in the country — including Georgia, Alabama, Michigan, and USC — but ultimately chose to don the Scarlet and Gray. Known for his explosive speed, elite instincts, and relentless motor, Atkinson has long been considered a program-changing talent.
“The visit from Coach [Jim] Knowles and Coach [Ryan] Day really showed me what Ohio State is about — not just football, but development, family, and a winning culture,” Atkinson said during his announcement. “I feel like Columbus is the place I can grow the most, on and off the field.”
Atkinson’s commitment gives Ohio State a huge boost to an already strong 2025 class, now ranked among the top three nationally. More importantly, it reaffirms the Buckeyes’ ability to recruit elite talent from SEC territory — a key element in building rosters capable of contending for national championships in the new expanded College Football Playoff era.
Recruiting analysts have raved about Atkinson’s versatility. He can line up as a traditional inside linebacker or come off the edge as a pass rusher, creating havoc in opposing backfields. He’s also a vocal leader — the type of player who elevates those around him.
“This is a game-changer for Ohio State,” said one recruiting analyst. “Atkinson is not just the best linebacker in the country — he’s the tone-setter every defense wants.”
Ohio State fans have taken to social media with excitement, flooding Atkinson’s posts with welcome messages and “Go Bucks” chants. With his commitment, the Buckeyes now have a centerpiece for their future defense, and a potential freshman starter from Day 1.
As Ryan Day and his staff continue to load up on elite talent, one thing is clear: Ohio State isn’t just aiming to keep pace — they’re building a roster designed to dominate.
Tyler Atkinson is the newest Buckeye — and he’s bringing championship-level energy with him.
