Zahir Mathis has decommitted from Ohio State.
Mathis announced Monday that he has reopened his recruitment. The four-star defensive end and No. 67 overall recruit in the 2025 class had been committed to the Buckeyes since Jan. 10 and still considers Ohio State “a top school“ in his recruitment.
After much consideration Ive decided to reopen my recruitment and decommit from Ohio State. I appreciate Coach Day, Coach Johnson and all the coaches at Ohio State. They are still a top school for me. This is a life decision. Please respect my decision!
— Zahir Mathis (@ZahirMathis5) November 18, 2024
Mathis was in Columbus for an official visit on Oct. 25 when Ohio State defeated Nebraska 21-17. The Philadelphia native also made an official visit to Penn State in June. He returned to State College a month later for the Lasch Bash, a barbeque event the Nittany Lions invited 2025, 2026 and 2027 prospects to attend.
Before committing to Ohio State, Mathis had a top five that also included Florida State, Tennessee, Texas and South Carolina. This fall, Miami and Texas A&M attempted to get Mathis on campus, according to Brian Dohn of 247Sports.
With Mathis’ decommitment, Ohio State is down to five defensive linemen commits in the 2025 class: Zion Grady, Trajen Odom, Jarquez Carter, Maxwell Roy and London Merritt.
Merritt has visited Colorado twice this season, so that could be a situation worth watching.
The Buckeyes are still in contact with defensive tackles Jahkeem Stewart and Malik Autry and expect both to be in Columbus for the Michigan game. It's also possible Ohio State could pivot to another high school defensive end or pursue one in the transfer portal this winter.
