Just in ; Ohio State 5-Star WR Commit Chris Henry Jr. Sets Four Official Visits
Ohio State 5-Star WR Commit Chris Henry Jr. Sets Four Official Visits
Ohio State 5-Star WR Commit Chris Henry Jr. Sets Four Official Visits
In a significant development on the college football recruiting scene, Ohio State’s prized five-star wide receiver commit, Chris Henry Jr., has officially scheduled four visits as part of his ongoing recruitment process. This move comes as a major talking point in the world of college football, with fans and analysts closely watching the elite prospect’s journey leading up to his college decision.
Who is Chris Henry Jr.?
Chris Henry Jr., the son of the late Cincinnati Bengals wide receiver Chris Henry, is one of the most highly touted wide receiver prospects in the class of 2026. Standing at 6-foot-5 and weighing 185 pounds, Henry Jr. has already drawn comparisons to some of the best receivers in recent memory due to his combination of size, speed, and elite ball skills. He currently plays for Withrow High School in Cincinnati, Ohio, and has already shown his ability to dominate competition at the high school level.
Ohio State’s Hold on Henry Jr.
Henry Jr. has been committed to Ohio State since July 2023, and his commitment to the Buckeyes was a significant recruiting win for head coach Ryan Day and wide receivers coach Brian Hartline. Ohio State has consistently developed elite wide receivers in recent years, with players like Marvin Harrison Jr., Chris Olave, and Garrett Wilson making waves in both college and the NFL. The Buckeyes’ strong track record at the position played a key role in Henry Jr.’s decision to commit early in the process.
However, despite his early commitment, Henry Jr. has decided to take a deeper look at his options by setting up four official visits, a move that has stirred speculation about his recruitment status.
Four Official Visits Scheduled
Although Henry Jr. remains committed to Ohio State, he has scheduled four official visits to major programs that have been pursuing him aggressively. These visits will allow him to explore different environments, coaching staffs, and offensive schemes before making a final decision. The four schools he plans to visit are:
1. Alabama
The Crimson Tide, led by head coach Kalen DeBoer following Nick Saban’s retirement, continue to be one of the most dominant programs in college football. Alabama has a history of producing top-tier wide receivers, including DeVonta Smith, Jaylen Waddle, and Jameson Williams. With DeBoer looking to put his stamp on the program, securing a talent like Henry Jr. would be a major statement.
2. Georgia
The Georgia Bulldogs, fresh off multiple College Football Playoff appearances, have become one of the premier destinations for elite recruits. Kirby Smart’s squad has been known for its defensive dominance, but recent years have shown a growing emphasis on developing high-caliber offensive playmakers. The opportunity to join a championship-contending team with a strong development pipeline is undoubtedly intriguing for Henry Jr.
3. USC
With Lincoln Riley at the helm, USC has established itself as a quarterback-friendly program that allows receivers to thrive in a high-powered offensive system. Playing in Los Angeles and competing in the Big Ten starting in 2024 could appeal to Henry Jr., especially given the Trojans’ ability to produce NFL-caliber receivers.
4. LSU
LSU has been a proven factory for wide receiver talent, producing stars like Ja’Marr Chase, Justin Jefferson, and Odell Beckham Jr. Head coach Brian Kelly has prioritized recruiting elite offensive talent, and securing Henry Jr. would solidify their passing attack for years to come.
What This Means for Ohio State
While Henry Jr. remains committed to the Buckeyes, official visits to other programs are always a cause for concern. Ohio State has been in this situation before with highly ranked recruits, and the coaching staff will have to continue to reinforce why Columbus is the best place for him.
Brian Hartline, widely regarded as one of the best wide receiver coaches in the country, has been instrumental in Henry Jr.’s development and recruitment. The Buckeyes’ ability to get receivers to the next level, combined with the program’s championship aspirations, remains a compelling factor in Henry Jr.’s decision.
Reactions from the Recruiting World
Recruiting experts and analysts have mixed opinions on what these visits could mean. Some believe that Henry Jr. is simply doing his due diligence and enjoying the recruiting process before officially signing with Ohio State. Others, however, see this as a sign that his commitment may not be as firm as once thought.
Many recruiting insiders suggest that Henry Jr. wants to ensure he is making the best decision for his future. The NIL (Name, Image, and Likeness) era has also added a new dynamic to recruiting, as different programs offer varying opportunities for athletes to capitalize on their brand. These factors make the recruitment of a five-star talent even more competitive.
What’s Next for Henry Jr.?
After completing his four official visits, Henry Jr. is expected to reassess his commitment and make a final decision before National Signing Day. Ohio State will continue to recruit him aggressively, ensuring that he remains firm in his choice. If the Buckeyes can keep him on board, he will be another elite addition to their storied receiver lineage.
For now, Ohio State fans remain hopeful that Henry Jr. will ultimately stick with his initial commitment. However, with powerhouse programs like Alabama, Georgia, USC, and LSU still in the mix, the battle for his signature is far from over.
Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story as Henry Jr. navigates his recruitment journey.
