In a move shaking up the 2026 recruiting landscape, Ohio State has lost a prized EDGE recruit — and it appears desperation may have played a major role. Sources close to the recruitment say that USC head coach Lincoln Riley made a last-minute, aggressive push to flip the elite prospect, and it worked.
The recruit in question, Jamal Norwood, a five-star pass rusher out of Houston, had been a strong Ohio State lean for months. With his rare blend of speed, power, and athleticism off the edge, Norwood had long been viewed as a future star in Columbus. However, just days before his scheduled announcement, USC pulled off a stunning turnaround with an NIL-heavy package and full-court press from Riley and his staff.
For Ohio State fans, the news stings — especially considering the Buckeyes’ tradition of producing elite defensive linemen. Norwood would have joined a legacy of NFL-caliber pass rushers, including Chase Young, the Bosa brothers, and more recently, J.T. Tuimoloau. His departure now leaves a hole in an otherwise strong 2026 class.
As for USC, the flip is a much-needed recruiting win. After missing out on several defensive targets this cycle and facing mounting pressure to strengthen the Trojans’ front seven, Riley’s staff pulled out all the stops. While critics will point to the timing and tactics, there’s no denying that USC landed a game-changer.
It also reignites the narrative that NIL is reshaping college football — fast. Programs like USC, with big-market backing and national appeal, are capitalizing late when others thought a commitment was all but sealed.
For Ohio State, the battle is lost — but the war for 2026 talent is far from over.
