In a significant development for Ohio State’s football program, four-star linebacker Deontae Lawson has officially pledged his commitment to the Buckeyes for the upcoming class of 2025. The announcement is a major win for Ohio State, as they secure one of the nation’s top defensive prospects and reinforce their already formidable recruiting class.
Lawson, a standout at Alabama’s prestigious high school football scene, has been a coveted recruit for many of the country’s top programs. The decision to join Ohio State comes after a highly competitive recruiting process, where the Buckeyes battled top-tier schools, including his home-state Alabama Crimson Tide, for his commitment.
Why Ohio State?
In an exclusive statement, Lawson explained the factors that led to his decision to commit to Ohio State, highlighting the strong relationship he built with the coaching staff and the university’s track record of developing players for the next level.
“I’ve always wanted to play for a program that challenges me, both on the field and off the field,” Lawson said. “Ohio State gives me that opportunity. Coach [Ryan] Day and Coach [Jim] Knowles are really committed to helping me reach my full potential, not only as a football player but also as a person. The culture at Ohio State is unmatched, and I know they’re all about winning championships.”
A key selling point for Lawson was the Buckeyes’ defensive coaching staff, led by defensive coordinator Jim Knowles. Known for his innovative defensive schemes and player development, Knowles has already made a name for himself at Ohio State and has played a major role in turning the Buckeyes’ defense into one of the most formidable units in the country.
“Coach Knowles’ defensive system fits me perfectly,” Lawson explained. “He values athletic linebackers who can play sideline to sideline and impact the game in multiple ways. That’s exactly how I see myself—someone who can make plays in all phases of the game.”
A Rising Star
Lawson, a 6-foot-2, 220-pound linebacker, has been an absolute force at the high school level, earning multiple accolades and recognition as one of the best linebackers in the 2025 class. Known for his explosive athleticism, sharp instincts, and leadership on the field, Lawson is expected to make an immediate impact at Ohio State once he arrives on campus.
His ability to read offenses and quickly react to plays has earned him comparisons to some of the top linebackers in college football. During his high school career, he was a terror for opposing offenses, registering numerous tackles for loss, sacks, and forced fumbles. His leadership qualities, combined with his relentless work ethic, made him a standout recruit that many programs targeted heavily.
A Key Addition to Ohio State’s Defense
Ohio State’s recruiting class for 2025 has already been recognized as one of the nation’s best, and Lawson’s commitment solidifies the Buckeyes’ position as one of the top contenders in college football recruiting. His addition is expected to bolster a defense that has been gradually improving under Knowles’ leadership.
Lawson joins an already impressive group of defenders in the 2025 class, and his commitment is a significant step toward Ohio State’s continued dominance on the defensive side of the ball. With several high-profile defensive recruits also considering Ohio State, Lawson’s decision could open the door for other top-tier players to follow suit.
The Road Ahead
For Ohio State, landing a recruit of Lawson’s caliber is not only a testament to the program’s winning tradition but also to the recruiting prowess of head coach Ryan Day and his staff. Day has quickly established Ohio State as one of the most competitive programs in the nation, regularly landing top recruits year after year.
As for Lawson, he is now fully focused on preparing for the next phase of his career in Columbus. He is expected to enroll in 2025 and begin his journey as a Buckeye, where he will work to make an immediate impact on Ohio State’s defense.
His commitment is also a signal to other recruits that Ohio State continues to be a premier destination for top talent looking to compete for championships and develop for the NFL. With players like Deontae Lawson on the roster, the Buckeyes look poised to remain a powerhouse in college football for years to come.
For now, Ohio State fans are celebrating a major recruiting win, and Lawson is excited to begin his journey with the Buckeyes. “I’m ready to get to work,” Lawson said. “This is just the beginning, and I can’t wait to help Ohio State win championships.”
