Football isn’t just a game of skill—it’s a battle won and lost in the trenches. And if there was ever a player built to dominate that battlefield, it’s Jackson Cantwell, the 6’7, 300-pound offensive tackle who has college programs practically falling over themselves to secure his commitment. The Class of 2026’s No. 1 overall recruit, Cantwell is a rare combination of size, agility, and sheer athletic freakishness—a fact made even more impressive considering he hails from a family of Olympians.
Now, the latest shake-up in his recruiting journey has sent shockwaves through the college football world. In a move that has left some powerhouse programs scrambling, Cantwell has announced plans to visit Miami, Michigan, and Ohio State in mid-March, leaving other top-tier schools—Georgia, Oregon, and Missouri—out of this crucial visit window. And while it’s far from a final decision, this development has completely changed the recruitment landscape.
Ohio State’s Second Chance—Ryan Day Back in the Fight
Not long ago, Ohio State looked like it might fade out of contention for Cantwell, largely due to an unexpected hurdle: the departure of offensive line coach Justin Frye to the NFL. Frye’s influence had been a key selling point for the Buckeyes, especially after his work developing an injury-plagued offensive front into a championship-caliber unit. With uncertainty surrounding his replacement, Ohio State’s standing in Cantwell’s recruitment took a nosedive.
Enter Tyler Bowen, the former Virginia Tech offensive coordinator, now tasked with reviving the Buckeyes’ offensive line dominance. His arrival has seemingly breathed new life into Ohio State’s pursuit of Cantwell, and Ryan Day is wasting no time capitalizing on it. After being on the verge of being left in the dust, the Buckeyes are suddenly surging back into the conversation—right in time for Cantwell’s March visit.
2026 No. 1 recruit Jackson Cantwell is planning to visit Miami, Michigan and Ohio State during the third week of March, @SWiltfong_ reports✈️
Read: https://t.co/8x9NZjn7aC pic.twitter.com/cJMAYOnAN7
— On3 Recruits (@On3Recruits) February 18, 2025
The Race to Land a Generational Talent
While Ohio State regains its footing, Georgia—long considered a frontrunner—finds itself in an unusual predicament. The Bulldogs have been a perennial powerhouse in offensive line development, a factor that has undoubtedly kept them in Cantwell’s good graces. But with no spring visit lined up for Athens, the air of invincibility surrounding Georgia’s grip on Cantwell’s recruitment has started to crack. Could this open the door for another program to seize control?
And then there’s Oregon—a school whose deep connection to track and field seemed like a perfect fit for Cantwell, given his record-breaking shot put background. Yet, despite the Nike-fueled allure of the Ducks, Oregon has taken a backseat in this round of visits, raising questions about their chances moving forward.
What’s Next? The Madness is Far From Over
As thrilling as this recruitment rollercoaster has been, it’s still far from reaching its final destination. Cantwell’s March visits could prove to be make-or-break moments for Ohio State, Miami, and Michigan, while Georgia, Oregon, and Missouri will have to find new ways to stay relevant in the fight for his commitment.
One thing is certain—whoever lands Jackson Cantwell isn’t just getting a five-star prospect; they’re getting a generational cornerstone for their offensive line. And with Ryan Day and Ohio State charging back into the fray, this battle is only heating up. Buckle up—because this recruiting war is just getting started.
