Elite LB Riley Pettijohn commits to Ohio State Buckeyes

McKinney (Texas) four-star linebacker Riley Pettijohn has committed to Ohio State, he announced on Saturday.

He chose the Buckeyes over Texas, USC and Texas A&M.

Pettijohn is the No. 33 overall prospect and No. 2 LB in the 2025 cycle, according to the On3 Industry Ranking, a weighted average that utilizes all four major recruiting media companies. He’s also the No. 9 player in Texas.

For more Ohio State recruiting intel, check out Lettermen Row.

Much of the momentum in Pettijohn’s recruitment revolved around the in-state programs, with Texas being the school trending for the elite LB ahead of his decision. The Buckeyes were able to snatch some of that momentum late, however.

Pettijohn was in Columbus at the end of March and logged his first official visit with OSU on May 31. He now joins an elite pledge list for Ryan Day and Co. that already ranks No. 1 in the nation, according to the On3 Industry Team Recruiting Rankings.

“We really enjoyed our trip back to Columbus,” Pettijohn’s father, Duke, told On3 last month. “The biggest takeaway we had was just the consistency and transparency in everything about the program. Ohio State is an elite institution that is poised to remain for a long time and we like that.”

Riley Pettijohn Scouting Summary

On3’s scouting and rankings team writes this of Pettijohn as a prospect:

“Smooth and twitchy mover at the linebacker position who can run sideline to sideline with ease but also play as a true inside thumper with a nose for the football. Extremely impressive overall athleticism in a camp setting. Ran an excellent 11.22 100m and jumped a 5-foot-10 high jump during his sophomore track and field season. Measured in at 6-foot-1, 200 pounds during summer camp visits. Tremendous space player who is extremely comfortable in man and zone coverage. Triggers well to the football and closes to ball carriers quickly and efficiently. More likely to slip a blocker than stack and shed. Has the frame to add necessary mass for the next level. Upside is through the roof. One of the top overall prospects in the 2025 recruiting cycle.”