Zahir Mathis Reopens Recruitment After Decommitting from Ohio State

Zahir Mathis, a highly-regarded four-star defensive end from Philadelphia, has decided to reopen his recruitment. Mathis had initially committed to Ohio State on January 10, 2024, but announced on Monday that he is now exploring other options. Despite this decision, Mathis noted, «Ohio State remains a top school in my recruitment.»

The announcement was made through Mathis’s official Twitter account where he expressed gratitude towards Coach Day, Coach Johnson, and the other Ohio State coaches. «After much consideration, I’ve decided to reopen my recruitment and decommit from Ohio State. I appreciate all the coaches at Ohio State. This is a life decision. Please respect my decision,» he tweeted.

Mathis’s decision follows his official visit to Columbus on October 25, where he watched Ohio State’s narrow victory over Nebraska, 21-17. Earlier in June, Mathis had also completed an official visit to Penn State and returned there for a special recruitment event in July.

Before pledging to Ohio State, Mathis’s top choices included Florida State, Tennessee, Texas, and South Carolina. There have been recent efforts by Miami and Texas A&M to bring Mathis to their campuses, as reported by recruitment outlets.

Ohio State now has five defensive linemen committed for the class of 2025. These players include Zion Grady, Trajen Odom, Jarquez Carter, Maxwell Roy, and London Merritt. Notably, Merritt has visited Colorado twice this season, suggesting a potentially shifting recruitment landscape.

The Buckeyes are continuing their recruitment efforts and remain in communication with defensive tackles Jahkeem Stewart and Malik Autry. Both players are expected to visit Columbus for the impending game against Michigan. Ohio State’s football program is also considering alternate high school prospects and potential additions through the transfer portal this winter season.