A pivotal recruiting win for the Buckeyes
On July 18, four‑star defensive lineman Karlos May announced his commitment to Ohio State, a decision that reverberated through the college football recruiting landscape. The Birmingham native, ranked No. 135 overall and No. 15 among defensive linemen by 247Sports’ composite rankings, chose the Buckeyes over a final slate that included Auburn, Florida State and Georgia.
May’s pledge marks the fifth top‑150 defensive lineman to join Ohio State’s 2027 class, underscoring a recruiting surge that has already seen five‑star edge rusher DJ Jacobs and versatile prospect Marcus Fakatou commit to the program. The influx of talent reflects the program’s ability to attract elite prospects from across the country.
At Ramsay High School, May posted 43 tackles, eight tackles for loss, four sacks and two interceptions last season, numbers that helped illustrate his disruptive potential. Standing 6‑foot‑3 and weighing 305 pounds, his interior presence promises to fortify Ohio State’s defensive line, a unit that has traditionally leaned on size and athleticism to dominate the trenches.
Beyond the gridiron, May also excelled in track and field, recording a shot‑put throw just over 50 feet in April, a testament to the physical tools that translate across sports. His athletic versatility adds another layer to the Buckeyes’ recruiting narrative, suggesting a player who could contribute in multiple roles.
Ohio State’s ability to secure a prospect from Alabama is not a new phenomenon; the program has signed at least one Alabama recruit in each of the past two recruiting cycles. May’s commitment continues that pattern and reinforces the Buckeyes’ reputation as a destination for top defensive talent.
The addition of May, alongside established commitments, positions Ohio State as a formidable contender in the upcoming recruiting battles, and his eventual arrival in Columbus will be closely watched by analysts and fans alike.