The top-rated player in the 2026 class has narrowed down his recruitment.
Jackson Cantwell, a five-star offensive tackle from Nixa High School in Missouri, has emerged as the nation’s top-ranked prospect in the 2026 recruiting class. Standing at an imposing 6-foot-8 and weighing 315 pounds, Cantwell’s combination of size, athleticism, and technical prowess has garnered attention from premier college football programs across the country.
In December 2024, Cantwell announced his top six schools: Texas A&M, Miami, Nebraska, Oregon, Georgia, and Ohio State. This selection narrowed down from an impressive list of 30 scholarship offers, underscoring the intense competition among elite programs to secure his commitment.
Ohio State’s inclusion in Cantwell’s top choices is particularly noteworthy. The Buckeyes extended an offer to Cantwell in October 2023, marking the beginning of their recruitment efforts. Reflecting on the offer, Cantwell stated, “It feels really good. Obviously, being from Missouri, I haven’t watched a whole lot of Ohio State football. But it’s a top program, so it’s definitely great I have the opportunity to learn more about them as time goes on.”
In December 2024, Cantwell visited Ohio State, providing him with a firsthand experience of the program’s culture and facilities. He expressed his enthusiasm about the visit, noting, “I had a lot of fun in Michigan and Ohio State. I mean, those are just two great places.” This visit allowed him to engage with the coaching staff and gain deeper insights into the program’s operations.
Beyond Ohio State, Cantwell has been proactive in exploring other top programs. He has taken visits to Michigan and has plans to visit Texas A&M. Each of these institutions has made a significant impression on him, highlighting aspects such as coaching philosophies, program development, and their visions for future success.
Cantwell’s athletic pedigree is exceptional. He is the son of two former Olympic shot put throwers. His father, Christian Cantwell, is a Mizzou alumnus who won a silver medal at the 2008 Beijing Olympic Games, while his mother, Teri Steer, competed at the 2000 Sydney Games. This lineage has undoubtedly contributed to his remarkable physical attributes and work ethic.
On the field, Cantwell’s performance has been nothing short of dominant. He currently plays left tackle for Nixa High School, which boasts an undefeated 9-0 record this season. Discussing his strengths, Cantwell said, “What our program has really made me get into is down blocking and pass protection. Pretty much anything in the run game where I can go down and block linebackers or defensive tackles is pretty good. I feel like in pass protection my reach blocks have been pretty good as well.”
As his recruitment progresses, Cantwell has emphasized the importance of building relationships with coaching staffs, understanding program cultures, and evaluating how he fits within each system. He has also enlisted Rosenhaus Sports Representation to navigate the Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) aspects of his recruitment, ensuring that he makes informed decisions in this evolving landscape
Looking ahead, Cantwell plans to take four official visits in the summer, with the possibility of adding an extra one in May. This approach will allow him to gain comprehensive insights into each program before making his final decision. Given his methodical approach and the high stakes involved, the college football community will be keenly observing his choices in the coming months.
In summary, Jackson Cantwell’s recruitment journey is a testament to his exceptional talent and the high regard in which he is held by top-tier college football programs. His inclusion of Ohio State in his top six underscores the Buckeyes’ strong appeal and sets the stage for a competitive battle among elite programs to secure his commitment. As he continues to evaluate his options, Cantwell’s decisions will undoubtedly have a significant impact on the landscape of college football recruiting.
