Karlos May, a defensive tackle from Ramsay High School in Alabama, announced his commitment to Ohio State University for the class of 2027, a decision that highlights the Buckeyes' continued dominance in attracting elite defensive talent.
May selected the Buckeyes over Auburn, Georgia and Florida State after a standout senior season in which he recorded 43 tackles, four sacks and two interceptions. The prospect also excels in track and field, having qualified for the state meet in discus and shot put as a sophomore in 2025.
Coach Larry Johnson, Ohio State's defensive line mentor, has been credited with securing May's pledge, continuing a recruiting pipeline that has already produced four defensive linemen for the program this cycle, including DJ Jacobs, Marcus Fakatou and Wyatt Smith.
The commitment comes as Ohio State enjoys a productive recruiting month, having also welcomed Jett Harrison and several other high‑profile prospects. The coaching staff is now turning its attention to 5‑star running back David Gabriel‑Georges, who is scheduled to announce his college choice on July 22.
A Strategic Push for the 2027 Defensive Line
May's decision reflects a broader strategy by Ohio State to fortify its defensive front, a unit that has seen a surge of commitments from top prospects across the nation. The Buckeyes' ability to out‑recruit traditional powerhouses such as Auburn and Georgia underscores the program's rising appeal.
Beyond football, May's dual‑sport background adds a versatile athletic dimension to the roster, a factor that coaches say could translate into increased flexibility on the defensive front. His track achievements in discus and shot put demonstrate a rare combination of size, speed and explosiveness.
The upcoming announcement of David Gabriel‑Georges will be closely watched, as his selection could further cement Ohio State's status as a premier destination for elite talent in the 2027 class.