Overview
- James Smith and Qua Russaw announced commitments on Jan. 12 after visiting Columbus, confirming the move on social media.
- Smith, a former five-star and 247Sports’ No. 1 interior defensive lineman in this cycle, started 12 games in 2025 and enters his final year of eligibility.
- Russaw, an edge rusher with two years remaining after a 2023 redshirt, missed time in 2025 with a foot injury but is expected to compete for a major role.
- The longtime Carver Montgomery teammates have moved as a package from high school to Alabama and now to Ohio State.
- On3Sports’ Hayes Fawcett first reported the coordinated commitments as Ohio State accelerates portal additions during the January window.