The Ohio State Board of Trustees and university president Michael Drake reinstated head football coach Urban Meyer on Wednesday evening after a lengthy investigation into his knowledge of and actions regarding the domestic abuse allegations against former wide receivers coach Zach Smith, though he’ll be suspended for the first three games of the season for his handling of the alleged instances.
It should go without saying Meyer played an integral role in the Buckeyes landing pledges from 21 prospects in the 2019 and 2020 recruiting class, and it’s safe to say they were anxiously awaiting word on his status for the last three weeks.
Eleven Warriors reached out to each commit after the news broke late last night, and here’s how several of them reacted to Meyer’s reinstatement and suspension:
TEXAS FIVE-STAR WIDE RECEIVER GARRETT WILSON
“It’s just good to have him back and have some normalcy again.”
GEORGIA FIVE-STAR CENTER HARRY MILLER
“It’s great and definitely a huge relief to have this settled.”
MENTOR FOUR-STAR DEFENSIVE END NOAH POTTER
“I’m happy he’s back.”
GEORGIA FOUR-STAR ATHLETE STEELE CHAMBERS
“I’m happy he is back leading the team.”
TENNESSEE THREE-STAR TIGHT END CORMONTAE HAMILTON
“Honestly, I’m glad it’s a suspension and not completely off the team to not coach. Shout goes out to the Buckeye family.”
CINCINNATI ST. XAVIER FIVE-STAR OFFENSIVE TACKLE PARIS JOHNSON JR.
“I am excited coach Meyer will be back.”
GEORGIA FOUR-STAR OFFENSIVE TACKLE JAKE WRAY
“I’m excited to see what the buckeyes do this year and very glad to have our coach back."
NEW JERSEY FOUR-STAR OFFENSIVE GUARD LUKE WYPLER
“Just happy everything worked out.”
Of course, the news broke late on a school night, so we’ll continue to update this story as comments and reactions to Meyer’s reinstatement and suspension continue to pour in from future Buckeyes and top targets.
Eleven Warriors is committed to smart, timely and exhaustive coverage of Ohio State athletics. Unlike other outlets, we choose not to put up a paywall. We want to keep our journalism as open as we can.
As an independent media organization, we count on the generosity of our readers to help us achieve this mission. If you enjoy our coverage, please consider becoming a 12th Warrior or supporting us in other ways.
Thank you for your continued support.
