Prince Goldsby, a four-star linebacker from Blue Springs, Missouri, announced his commitment to Ohio State on Wednesday, cementing his place in the Buckeyes’ 2027 recruiting haul.
Ranked No. 7 among linebackers nationwide and No. 101 overall in the class, Goldsby brings a blend of size, speed and pass-rush ability that attracted the attention of Ohio State’s veteran recruiter, Coach James Laurinaitis.
During his junior season he logged 83 tackles, 22.5 tackles for loss and 13.5 sacks, numbers that helped him break into the national conversation despite entering the recruitment cycle late.
The pledge marks the second linebacker addition to Ohio State’s defensive class and the sixth overall defensive commit, joining fellow future Buckeyes such as TJ Alford, Braxton Rembert and Payton Pierce.
Coach Laurinaitis, who took over the linebackers room in 2024, has quickly built a reputation as a premier recruiter, a reputation that was further reinforced when five-star defensive end DJ Jacobs and four-star end Wyatt Smith also chose Ohio State.
Analysts say Goldsby’s arrival could reshape the Buckeyes’ pass-rush schemes and add depth to a unit that is already among the most anticipated in recent memory.
A Boost for Ohio State’s Defensive Future
The commitment also underscores the growing pull of Ohio State in the Midwest, where Blue Springs South High School, the alma mater of Goldsby, continues to produce top talent for the program.
Fans and alumni alike are already debating how the new linebacker corps will fit into the upcoming season’s defensive lineup, with many expecting immediate contributions on special teams and in pass-rush rotations.