Ohio State Lands Top‑Tier Four‑Star DL from Gardena to Bolster Defensive Front
Ohio State has landed a significant commitment in the 2026 recruiting cycle, as four‑star defensive lineman Khary Wilder from Junipero Serra High School in Gardena, California, pledged to the Buckeyes on June 11. At 6‑foot‑4 and 260 pounds, Wilder brings both size and versatility—equally capable of playing inside or out on the defensive line .
Wilder took an official visit on May 30 and instantly formed a strong connection with the coaching staff, particularly defensive line coach Larry Johnson and coordinator Matt Patricia . He credited their recruiting approach, saying they made him feel like a priority, tailoring a clear plan for his development from the moment he stepped on campus . Johnson didn’t waste time; he gave Wilder drills and tips to work on even before he enrolled—a gesture that clearly resonated .
Wilder chose Ohio State over heavy hitters such as Notre Dame, UCLA, Washington, and Alabama . Ranked No. 248 in the 2026 class and No. 23 among EDGE defenders per the 247Sports Composite, he showcased strong production at Serra with 86 tackles, 11 TFL, 4.5 sacks, and 40 QB hurries during his junior season .
His addition marks the first defensive lineman OSU has secured in the 2026 class, a group which already includes several elite-level recruits . His commitment gives the Buckeyes a much-needed boost up front and speaks volumes about the program’s continued national reach.
Why It Matters
Early defensive reinforcement: As OSU builds its 2026 class, grabbing a four-star edge rusher from the West Coast demonstrates national pull and strategic focus.
NFL trajectory: Wilder cited Ohio State’s track record of developing NFL defensive linemen—Joey Bosa, Nick Bosa, Chase Young—as a major factor in his decision .
Momentum for the front seven: Coming off a national championship, Ohio State is reinforcing its dominance by stacking top-tier talent on both sides of the ball.
With Wilder now on board, the Buckeyes’ defensive line is shaping up to be a core strength heading into the next era.
