BREAKING:Ohio State Win Race for No. 1 Defensive Recruit Harvey Dyson due to…

Harvey Dyson Commits to Ohio State, Turns Down Texas and Kansas in Stunning Recruiting Win

Buckeyes Win Race for No. 1 Defensive Recruit Harvey Dyson

In a monumental moment for the 2026 recruiting cycle, five-star defensive end Harvey Dyson — widely considered the No. 1 defensive player in America — has officially committed to Ohio State University, rejecting in-state favorite Texas and surging underdog Kansas.

The 6-foot-6, 270-pound force of nature from Cedar Hill High School in Texas made his announcement during a nationally streamed ceremony, choosing to don the scarlet and gray cap of the Ohio State Buckeyes, sending shockwaves throughout the recruiting world.

“Today I’m choosing greatness,” Dyson said. “Ohio State is where I’m going to become the best version of myself. I’m a Buckeye.”

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The Recruiting Saga: Three Titans Battled for Dyson

Dyson’s recruitment had been a year-long war featuring three very different schools: traditional powerhouse Texas, up-and-coming Kansas, and perennial Big Ten juggernaut Ohio State.

Texas offered local stardom, family proximity, and a strong name brand. Kansas pitched a “build-it-from-scratch” narrative, with Dyson positioned as the face of their defensive future. But Ohio State? The Buckeyes promised development, tradition, national exposure, and most importantly — NFL preparation.

Throughout the spring, all three schools stayed in the mix. By June, Texas was considered the favorite. By July, Kansas was surging. But Ohio State never panicked. Behind the scenes, defensive line coach Larry Johnson and head coach Ryan Day worked with quiet confidence, building a bond with Dyson and his family that proved unshakable.

“Coach Johnson’s track record speaks for itself,” Dyson said after committing. “When he tells you he sees Chase Young in you, that means something. I trust him to get me to the league.”

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Dyson’s Words: Why Ohio State?

Following his announcement, Dyson spoke at length about the “complete package” that Ohio State offers.

“Ohio State develops dogs. There’s no fluff. Just work, championships, and Sundays,” he said. “I’ve watched how they train, how they play, how they treat their players. It felt like home every time I visited.”

He also emphasized relationships and culture.

“Coach Day never treated me like a recruit. He treated me like family. Every coach at Ohio State made it clear that I was wanted, and not just for my stats — for who I am off the field, too.”

Dyson said he also connected with Ohio State players during his official visit.

“The team has a brotherhood. It’s real,” he said. “Those guys welcomed me like I was already part of it.”

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What This Means for Ohio State’s 2026 Class

Dyson’s commitment immediately vaults Ohio State’s 2026 class into the national spotlight. Already ranked in the top three nationally, the addition of Dyson solidifies the Buckeyes’ push for the No. 1 class.

Ohio State’s current 2026 class now features:

Harvey Dyson (5-star, DE, Texas)

Trey Norwood (5-star, WR, Georgia)

Devon White (4-star, CB, Florida)

Zion Patton (4-star, OL, Michigan)

Caleb Minter (4-star, QB, North Carolina)

With Dyson on board, Ohio State’s defensive line class becomes arguably the best in the country. He’s expected to anchor a unit that will include returning players and fellow elite recruits.

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The Buckeyes’ NFL Pitch Worked

Much of Ohio State’s success in this recruitment can be attributed to their NFL resume. Dyson was shown in-depth film breakdowns comparing him to past Buckeye greats like Joey Bosa, Nick Bosa, and Chase Young.

“Those aren’t just NFL players — they’re top-five draft picks,” said Dyson’s high school coach Carlos Barnes. “Ohio State knows how to take elite players and make them superstars. That’s what sold Harvey.”

Coach Larry Johnson’s personal involvement was also pivotal.

“Coach Johnson flew out to Texas twice in June. He didn’t have to say much. His résumé said it for him,” Dyson’s father shared.

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How Kansas Nearly Pulled It Off

Kansas nearly pulled off the unthinkable.

In late July, Dyson made a quiet return trip to Lawrence. The Jayhawks had become a serious player thanks to coach Lance Leipold’s aggressive approach, staff continuity, and a promise to build the defense around Dyson.

“They made me feel like a king,” Dyson admitted. “Coach Leipold has something special going. Kansas is going to surprise a lot of people.”

Sources close to Kansas say they were “crushed” by the final decision but respected Dyson’s process.

“We were right there,” one Kansas assistant said anonymously. “But it’s hard to beat the NFL factory that is Ohio State.”

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Texas Falls Short at the Finish Line

For Texas, Dyson’s choice marks a major recruiting loss. The Longhorns had hosted Dyson more than any other school. He attended spring practices, multiple unofficial visits, and was often seen as the “face” of Texas’ 2026 vision.

However, internal coaching turnover and questions about the defensive scheme reportedly caused hesitation.

“They’re still figuring things out,” Dyson said. “I love Texas, but I need stability. Ohio State’s been doing this at a high level for decades.”

This isn’t the first time Texas has lost a top in-state recruit to a Big Ten program — a growing trend in the NIL era, where development often trumps geography.

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Dyson’s Game: A Future Star in Columbus

Harvey Dyson isn’t just a five-star — he’s a program-changer.

Scouting Summary:

Height/Weight: 6’6″, 270 lbs

Wingspan: 82 inches

40-yard dash: 4.61 seconds

2024 Stats: 22 sacks, 31 TFL, 6 forced fumbles

Dyson’s game is built on explosiveness, technique, and intelligence. His ability to bend the edge and collapse the pocket makes him a nightmare for quarterbacks. But what sets him apart is his maturity and preparation.

“He watches film like a pro,” said Coach Barnes. “He’ll dominate early in college because he understands the game mentally as much as physically.”

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Reactions Across College Football

Following Dyson’s announcement, college football personalities, former players, and fans chimed in online:

Chase Young: “Harvey Dyson to Ohio State? Let’s go!! That boy going to be special.”

Joel Klatt (FOX Sports): “Ohio State just landed the best pass rusher in America. This is huge.”

Barstool Big Ten: “Michigan’s offensive line might want to start praying now.”

Meanwhile, Texas and Kansas fans flooded social media with emotional responses, ranging from disappointment to outright disbelief.

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Ohio State’s Defensive Future Looks Elite

Dyson will likely arrive in Columbus as a Day 1 contributor. With several veterans expected to depart after the 2025 season, he’ll enter a defensive line room hungry for a new face to lead the next era.

He’s also likely to become a focal point of Ohio State’s 2026 defensive scheme.

“Coach Day told me that I’m not waiting — I’m coming in to compete right away,” Dyson said. “That’s what I want. I didn’t choose Ohio State to sit. I chose it to dominate.”

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The National Ripple Effect

Dyson’s commitment will have lasting effects beyond just Ohio State.

Kansas will now shift focus to other edge rushers, including Donovan Baynes and Keegan Sharp.

Texas will likely pursue more aggressive NIL packages to keep future five-stars at home.

Alabama, Georgia, and Michigan, all of whom lightly pursued Dyson early, are now playing catch-up in the elite defensive line market.

Analysts also note that Dyson’s commitment could help Ohio State land two more five-stars: linebacker Zaire Wesley and cornerback Treyvon Hill, both close with Dyson from national camps.

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Closing Statement from Dyson

As his commitment ceremony came to a close, Dyson shared an emotional thank you to his parents, coaches, and community.

“You all raised me to be disciplined, humble, and to dream big,” he said. “Now it’s time to chase that dream in Columbus. Buckeye Nation — I’m coming.”

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Conclusion: A Franchise Piece for the Buckeyes

Harvey Dyson’s commitment to Ohio State represents far more than a star recruit picking a school. It’s a statement.

A statement that Ohio State remains the gold standard in defensive line development. A statement that NIL alone can’t buy elite talent. A statement that the Buckeyes are building a defense that can dominate the next decade of college football.

Texas and Kansas gave their all. But when it mattered most, Ohio State closed the deal.

And now, the No. 1 defensive player in America is headed to Columbus.