Four-star defensive tackle Karlos May, the No. 15 prospect among defensive linemen and No. 135 overall in the 2027 recruiting class, announced his commitment to Ohio State University on Wednesday.
The 6-foot-3, 305-pound athlete from Birmingham, Alabama, chose the Buckeyes over Auburn, Georgia and Florida State after official visits to each campus, concluding a recruitment that had drawn attention from across the SEC.
May’s pledge adds a powerful piece to a defensive line that already features several top-ranked recruits, making him the fourth defensive lineman and the sole true defensive tackle in Ohio State’s 2027 class.
Ohio State’s recruiting coordinator Larry Johnson, who previously secured four top-150 prospects in 2022 and 2018, praised May’s blend of size, technique and athleticism, while head coach Ryan Day highlighted the prospect’s fit within the program’s aggressive defensive scheme.
The commitment also underscores a broader trend of Alabama natives joining the Buckeyes, as May becomes the fourth recent recruit from the state to sign with Ohio State, a development that could reshape the recruiting landscape in the Southeast.
Beyond football, May distinguished himself in track and field, qualifying for the Alabama state meet in both the shot put and discus in 2025, showcasing the versatility that attracted multiple collegiate programs.
Fans and analysts alike are already speculating about how May will pair with other emerging talents such as DJ Jacobs, Marcus Fakatou and Jeremiah Smith, all of whom are expected to contribute to a deep and competitive defensive roster.