Ethan Onianwa projected as a second-round pick in the 2025 NFL Draft

In a significant development for American college football, Ethan Onianwa, a prominent offensive tackle from Rice University, has committed to Ohio State University. This decision comes after he evaluated offers from several other top programs, including Iowa, Texas A&M, and Florida State. The 6-foot-6, 345-pound junior showcased exceptional talent during his first season as left tackle in 2024, registering an impressive performance with only one sack allowed over 294 pass-blocking snaps, achieving a 2.4 percent pressure rate that placed him in the 92nd percentile of all FBS offensive tackles. Ohio State has recently been in a transition phase, especially following the midseason injury of Josh Simmons, their standout left tackle. This created a pressing need for depth and skill in their offensive line. Coupled with other commitments from players such as tight end Max Klare and running back CJ Donaldson Jr., Onianwa's addition is positioned to bolster the Buckeyes' offensive line for the upcoming season. Given his performance and accolades, many NFL scouts have positioned him as a potential second-round pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, highlighting the high expectations surrounding him. As Rice’s former three-star recruit, Onianwa spent two years at right tackle before making a switch to the more critical left tackle position. His consistency and performance were evident in both protection and minimizing quarterback pressures, positioning him as a valuable asset for Ohio State. Moreover, his commitment reflects the ongoing trend of top recruits switching to major programs, signaling their aspirations to compete at the highest collegiate levels and potentially at professional levels in the future. Ohio State's recent recruiting efforts have diversified their roster, bringing in multiple players to strengthen their competitive edge. Onianwa’s commitment not only addresses the loss of a key player but also introduces a fresh talent poised to make an immediate impact. As the Buckeyes continue to adapt and evolve on the field, commitments like Onianwa's are critical to their overall strategy for maintaining a strong position in college football and preparing for the ever-competitive NFL Draft landscape in the forthcoming years.