BOOM WIRE: Ohio State Lands Five-Star Elite WR 2026 Recruit, Chris Henry Jr. Chooses Buckeyes Over Louisville, Michigan, and Notre Dame
In a thrilling recruitment win for Ohio State, five-star wide receiver Chris Henry Jr. announced his commitment to the Buckeyes on Sunday, cementing a significant victory for coach Ryan Day and his program. Henry, a top-tier talent in the 2026 class, had long been one of the most coveted prospects in the country, and his decision to join Ohio State over several powerhouse programs signals the Buckeyes’ continued dominance on the recruiting trail.
The 6-foot-3, 185-pound wide receiver out of Cincinnati, Ohio, is regarded as one of the most dynamic offensive playmakers in the nation. Known for his ability to stretch the field with his blazing speed and sharp route running, Henry is a threat both in the open field and in contested situations, making him a nightmare for opposing defenses.
Henry’s commitment to Ohio State comes after an intense recruitment battle that involved some of college football’s elite programs. Michigan, Louisville, and Notre Dame all put up strong efforts to land the highly-rated receiver, but in the end, it was the Buckeyes who secured his services. Henry’s choice to stay in-state, just a short drive from his hometown, will undoubtedly excite Ohio State fans who have watched their team become a perennial contender in the College Football Playoff under Day’s leadership.
For Ohio State, this is a significant recruiting victory. Henry’s addition bolsters an already loaded wide receiver room, which has been one of the most productive in the nation in recent years. The Buckeyes are known for producing elite pass catchers, with players like Garrett Wilson, Chris Olave, and Marvin Harrison Jr. setting the standard for success at the position. With Henry joining the fold, Ohio State adds another future star who has the potential to step into a leading role in the coming years.
Henry had an impressive high school career at Cincinnati’s powerhouse high school program, where he showed flashes of brilliance. His ability to make plays from anywhere on the field — whether it’s catching deep passes or making defenders miss after the catch — makes him an ideal fit in Ohio State’s high-powered offense.
Recruiting experts have long expected Henry to be a game-changer at the next level, with many projecting him to be an immediate contributor once he steps on campus. His size, athleticism, and work ethic make him a prototype for the modern wide receiver, and his ability to track the ball in the air and fight for position in tight coverage sets him apart from other top-tier recruits.
For the Buckeyes, this addition comes at an important time as they continue to recruit top-tier talent in the face of rising competition in the Big Ten and nationally. Henry’s commitment is a clear sign that Ohio State remains a premier destination for top players looking to compete at the highest level.
With Henry now in the fold, Ohio State’s 2026 class continues to gain momentum as the program looks to build for future championships.
