2026 IOL Samuel Simpson commits to Indiana

River Falls (Wisc.) three-star interior offensive lineman Samuel Simpson has committed to Indiana, he announced on Saturday.

He chose the Hoosiers over the likes of Iowa, Iowa State, Wisconsin, Kansas and Illinois.

Simpson is the No. 488 overall prospect and No. 47 IOL in the 2026 cycle, according to the On3 Industry Ranking, a weighted average that utilizes all four major recruiting media companies. He also ranks as the No. 1 player in Wisconsin.

“I want to start by thanking my family, friends, teammates, teachers, and coaches for pushing me to be the best person and the best football player on and off the field. I appreciate all of the coaches and staff of teams I have encountered through my journey,” Simpson wrote announcing his decision on X.

“I am grateful for the opportunity Indiana Football, Coach (Curt) Cignetti, and Coach (Bob) Bostad have given me in playing B1G football and further my academics at the University of Indiana. I’m happy to announce my commitment to Indiana Football.”

The 6-foot-4, 275-pound Simpson becomes the first member of Indiana’s 2026 recruiting class. He was visited by OL coach Bob Bostad earlier this week, received an offer on Friday and committed while on a visit in Bloomington.

More on Indiana Recruiting

The Hoosiers’ breakout 2024 season under new head coach Curt Cignetti didn’t exactly equate to success on the recruiting trail, but IU still signed 21 high school prospects last month. The 2025 class ranks No. 49 in the nation, according to the On3 Industry Team Recruiting Rankings.

Baltimore St. Frances Academy four-star safety Byron Baldwin headlines the class as the No. 239 overall prospect and No. 16 safety in the cycle. Baldwin is the lone blue-chipper in the class.

Other top signees in headed to Bloomington include: Indianapolis Warren Central three-star EDGE Tyrone Burrus, Indianapolis Lawrence North three-star wide receiver Davion Chandler, Saint Louis Christian Brothers three-star EDGE Triston Abram, Clearwater (Fla.) Central Catholic three-star running back Sean Cuono and Cincinnati Winton Woods three-star athlete Seaonta Stewart.