Ohio State football beat out Michigan in a recruiting battle for a talented defensive lineman this weekend. Four-star defensive lineman Damari Simeon committed to the Buckeyes on Friday.

While Simeon was expected to commit to the Buckeyes, it is still considered a significant pickup for Ohio State, as he had also considered Michigan, Texas, and Penn State during his recruitment process.

Simeon announced his decision to commit to the Buckeyes on X, writing “110% Committed! Go Bucks!” 

The 6-foot-2, 275 defensive lineman is set to enter his senior season at St. Augustine Prep in Egg Harbor Township, New Jersey. 

According to the 247Sports composite rankings, Simeon is ranked the 26th best defensive lineman in the country and the No. 3 overall prospect in New Jersey in the 2026 class.

Simeon took an official visit to Michigan in June before he decided to fully commit to Ohio State. 

In addition to Simeon, the Buckeyes also received a commitment from three-star defensive lineman Cameron Brickle on Saturday. Brickle committed to Ohio State over Florida State, Penn State, and Maryland.

Simeon and Brickle are also set to join four-star edge rusher Khary Wilder in the defensive line group that is a part of the Buckeyes' 2026 recruiting class.

With the recent commitments over the weekend, Ohio State now has the fifth-ranked recruiting class and the second-best Big Ten class according to the 247Sports rankings. The USC Trojans have the best recruiting class for 2026.

Georgia, Notre Dame, and Texas A&M are also ahead of the Buckeyes in the 2026 class rankings.