Is Ohio State Shedding Its High WR Commit? Chris Henry Jr. Reconsiders Future After Brian Hartline’s Exit

Ohio State’s recruiting momentum has simply taken a major hit. Brian Hartline’s departure to take the pinnacle teaching job at USF means the Buckeyes now face the actual chance of dropping Chris Henry Jr., the top-ranked huge receiver within the 2025 class.

Hartline’s Departure Reshapes Ohio State’s Recruiting Landscape

According to Sports Illustrated, Hartline’s affect at Ohio State had equaled none, with stars corresponding to Emeka Egbuka, Jaxon Smith-Njigba, and Garrett Wilson having flourished underneath his watch. That monitor file made him a cornerstone of the Buckeyes’ recruiting success.

It seems that the information of Hartline leaving Columbus shook issues up instantly. Chris Henry Jr., who has been dedicated to the Buckeyes since July 2023, mentioned that he was “shook” by the announcement. He delayed signing through the early interval as a result of uncertainty.

Oregon Pushes Hard as Chris Henry Jr. Reconsiders

With Hartline gone, Oregon rapidly emerged as a number one contender to flip Henry. The Ducks are additionally navigating their very own teaching transition, however Henry’s rising relationship with Oregon head coach Dan Lanning has made this system a severe menace.

Oregon stays the strongest challenger to Ohio State, even with the departure of offensive coordinator Will Stein for the pinnacle teaching job at Kentucky. Henry is “highly considering” making a swap to the Ducks in assessing his future.

Texas Enters the Race With a Massive NIL Pitch

And the competitors does not cease with Oregon. Texas has jumped into the fray with a considerable NIL bundle in an effort to pry Henry away to Austin. Henry stays firmly within the sights of the Longhorns, who’ve been aggressive about bringing in elite expertise.

While Texas is pushing onerous, reviews point out Oregon nonetheless holds an edge, however the Buckeyes stay in competition as Henry continues weighing his choices.

USC Joins the Mix as Another Threat

Lurking within the background is USC. Though thought of a darkish horse, the Trojans do have one huge benefit: Henry has shut buddies on campus. And these buddies might play a pivotal function in his resolution when he weighs long-term match, improvement, and private relationships.

Where Does Chris Henry Jr. Stand Among Elites in 2026?

Chris Henry Jr. is considered by consensus because the No. 1 huge receiver within the class. Rivals and ESPN every have him atop the place rankings, with Rivals rating him because the No. 15 total recruit within the nation, whereas the 247Sports Composite charges him No. 3 amongst wideouts and No. 32 total.

In different information, Platinum rapper Toosii has confirmed his dedication to Syracuse Orange for the 2026 class.