The Buckeyes’ Bold Move: The Next Generation of Linebacker Dominance
Ohio State’s recruiting machine continues to churn at full speed, locking in two of the nation’s most promising linebacker prospects—Jacob Eberhart and Cooper Witten. The significance of these offers goes beyond mere talent; they signal a shift in Ohio State’s aggressive pursuit of defensive excellence in an era dominated by offensive firepower.
Eberhart, a four-star linebacker in the 2026 class, has already established himself as a force to be reckoned with. At 6-foot-3 and 225 pounds, his blend of size, speed, and instinctual playmaking has drawn comparisons to past Buckeye greats. With his ability to rush the passer and drop into coverage seamlessly, he fits the mold of the modern hybrid linebacker—a necessity in today’s college game.
Then there’s Cooper Witten, a name that comes with built-in expectations. The son of legendary NFL tight end Jason Witten, Cooper has already been anointed as one of the top prospects in the 2027 class. At just 16, his combination of football IQ, raw athleticism, and physicality sets him apart. While many second-generation stars falter under the weight of their lineage, Witten appears to embrace it, carving out his own identity as a hard-hitting, sideline-to-sideline playmaker.
But Ohio State’s offers to these two rising stars aren’t just about filling roster spots—they’re a calculated move to regain defensive supremacy. The Buckeyes have faced criticism for their inability to consistently shut down elite offenses in recent years. With the SEC continuing to dominate recruiting and the Big Ten expanding, Ohio State needs more than just talent; it needs game-changers.
Some skeptics question whether Witten, despite his undeniable talent, would have received an offer this early without his last name. Others wonder if Eberhart, playing in a less competitive high school league, will translate to the Big Ten level. But Ohio State’s coaching staff isn’t in the business of nostalgia or speculation—they see potential, and they’re acting before their rivals can.
For Buckeye Nation, these offers represent hope. If Witten and Eberhart commit, they could form the backbone of a revitalized defense, one capable of bringing championship football back to Columbus. If they choose elsewhere, Ohio State will have to answer tough questions about its ability to compete for top-tier defensive recruits.
Either way, the message is clear: Ohio State isn’t waiting. They’re building for the future—one elite linebacker at a time.
