Ohio State boasts top-tier talent across most positions, but the offensive line has been a glaring weakness. This group has been under scrutiny for some time, often blamed when the Buckeyes lose crucial games for not being tough enough.
Offensive line coach Justin Frye has faced heavy and justified criticism from Buckeye fans. Many called for his dismissal after last season, but head coach Ryan Day decided to give him another chance. Recently, Frye has encountered difficulties in recruiting.
Ohio State recently missed out on securing the top offensive lineman
Last week, the Buckeyes lost out on five-star offensive lineman David Sanders Jr., the number one lineman in the 2025 class, who surprised many by choosing Tennessee. Just days earlier, they also lost four-star offensive lineman Josh Petty to Georgia Tech.
Frye needed to take action after missing out on two key offensive linemen. A week before the Buckeyes’ season opener against Akron, he got a fortunate break.
According to Hayes Fawcett from On3.com, four-star offensive lineman Jayvon McFadden has committed to Ohio State, picking the Buckeyes over Maryland and South Carolina.
BREAKING: Four-Star IOL Jayvon McFadden has Committed to Ohio State, he tells me for @on3recruits
The 6’4 290 IOL from Washington, DC chose the Buckeyes over Maryland & South Carolina
“I see Smith (4) at Ohio do it at WR I feel like I can do that at OL!”… pic.twitter.com/XbGdRHljTL
— Hayes Fawcett (@Hayesfawcett3) August 24, 2024
According to 247sports.com, McFadden is ranked as the 25th inside offensive lineman in the 2025 class and is 407th overall in the class.
Landing McFadden was crucial for the Buckeyes, as losing another offensive line prospect in the same week would have been a significant setback.
While McFadden may not be as highly ranked as Sanders and Petty, he possesses many skills and traits that Buckeye fans will appreciate. With time, he could develop into a key starter in Columbus.
