Ohio State had some movement in the 2026 recruiting class at wide receiver.
Ohio State University’s football program has long been synonymous with excellence, particularly in cultivating elite wide receivers. The recent commitment of Chris Henry Jr., a standout in the 2026 recruiting class, underscores this tradition and highlights the Buckeyes’ ongoing prowess in attracting top-tier talent.
A legacy Continues
Chris Henry Jr., born on July 14, 2007, is the son of the late NFL wide receiver Chris Henry. Following his father’s untimely passing in 2009, Henry Jr. was mentored by his father’s former teammate, Adam “Pacman” Jones, who became a father figure to him. This personal history has profoundly influenced Henry Jr.’s journey in football.
High School Journey
Henry Jr. began his high school football career at West Clermont High School in Batavia, Ohio, where he showcased his versatility with 29 receptions for 292 yards and five touchdowns. He also contributed defensively, recording 16 tackles and three interceptions. Seeking greater competition and exposure, he transferred to Withrow High School in Cincinnati for his sophomore year. There, he set a school record with 1,127 receiving yards on 71 catches, scoring 10 touchdowns. His performance earned him First-Team All-State honors. Ahead of his junior year, Henry Jr. transferred to Mater Dei High School in Santa Ana, California, a program renowned for producing elite football talent. Unfortunately, his junior season was cut short due to a knee injury.
Recruitment and Commitment
Even before playing a high school game, Henry Jr. received an offer from Ohio State, a testament to his exceptional talent. He committed to the Buckeyes during their Summerfest event, becoming the first member of Ohio State’s 2026 recruiting class. His decision was influenced by the program’s reputation for developing NFL-caliber receivers under the guidance of wide receivers coach Brian Hartline. Henry Jr. expressed admiration for current and former Buckeyes like Marvin Harrison Jr. and 2024 commit Jeremiah Smith, envisioning himself following in their footsteps.
Ohio State’s Recruiting Momentum
The Buckeyes’ success in recruiting elite wide receivers is well-documented. In the 2024 cycle, they secured commitments from five-star receiver Jeremiah Smith and four-star Mylan Graham. The 2025 class includes four-star wideout De’Zie Jones from DePaul Catholic High School in Wayne, New Jersey. These commitments reflect Ohio State’s sustained excellence in attracting and developing top receiving talent.
Looking Ahead
As the top-rated wide receiver in the 2026 class, Henry Jr.’s commitment bolsters Ohio State’s future offensive prospects. His combination of size, speed, and football intelligence positions him as a potential game-changer for the Buckeyes. Fans and analysts alike will be keen to follow his development at Mater Dei and anticipate his impact in Columbus.
In summary, the addition of Chris Henry Jr. to Ohio State’s 2026 recruiting class exemplifies the program’s ongoing dedication to excellence and its ability to attract premier talent. With a legacy name and exceptional skill set, Henry Jr. is poised to make significant contributions to the Buckeyes’ storied football tradition.
