Signed: Ohio State signs big-bodied defensive lineman Trajen Odom
The Early-Signing Period is here and Ohio State is set to once again bring in one of the country’s best recruiting classes. Lettermen Row is tracking the Buckeyes recruiting news throughout the signing period as 2025 commitments officially join the Ohio State football program. The latest Letter of Intent is in: Trajen Odom has signed with the Buckeyes.
COLUMBUS — Ohio State defensive line coach Larry Johnson has a trio of talented defensive tackles coming in the 2025 class to replace the current Buckeyes headed to the NFL. Four-star DL Trajen Odom has signed his Letter of Intent to Ohio State and is officially a Buckeye.
What does it mean for the Buckeyes? Let’s check it out.
Who is Trajen Odom?
Trajen Odom is a four-star defensive lineman from Matthews, North Carolina. He attended Weddington High School. He committed to the Buckeyes on June 28, 2024 over offers from Oregon, UCLA and USC. Odom was one of Ohio State’s few direct recruiting wins over the Ducks in the 2025 class.
On3 Industry Rankings: No. 366 overall, No. 30 defensive linemen, No. 9 in North Carolina
On3 Ranking: No. 27 defensive linemen and No. 12 in North Carolina
Hometown: Matthews, North Carolina
High School: Weddington
Odom is an ideal replacement for the role that current Ohio State defensive tackle Tyleik Williams plays in the Buckeyes defense. At 6-foot-4 and 285 pounds, Odom is at his best when it is closer to the ball. He has the power and physicality to consistently win against centers and guard at the college level. He can also have an impact as a pass rusher from time to time.
Odom is one of three defensive linemen for Ohio State in the 2025 class. He joins Maxwell Roy and Jarquez Carter in the Buckeyes defensive tackle haul this cycle.
How did Odom end up at Ohio State?
The Buckeyes offered the North Carolina native in January of 2024. He then visited Ohio State in March and May before taking an official visit to Columbus in June.
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He also took official visits to UCLA, Oregon and USC following his official to Columbus but none were able to overcome the Buckeyes in this recruiting
“I love what coach Day has going on with the program,” Odom told On3. “Ohio State is one of the best and favorites to win the national championship every year. Then you have the development piece with coach Johnson and the other defensive line coaches that work with him. Their production is known.
“Then they have the fans and one of the best atmospheres in college football. The whole city loves Ohio State. They have what I am looking for on and off the field. Life after football opportunities are there in Columbus and I found the right school for me.”
Odom will be an early enrollee and on campus in January to take part in spring practices at Ohio State.
