Zahir Mathis has decommited from Ohio State. He announced his decision on Monday and still appears to have the Buckeyes as a top school despite opening back up his recruitment.
Penn State seems to be the strong favorite as Mathis is from Philadelphia, but there could be many teams eyeing the four-star prospect. He had multiple people recruiting him from Alabama, so there is potential the Crimson Tide are able to scoop up the four-star defensive end.
Mathis is ranked as the 16th-best edge rusher in the Class of 2025 per 247Sports. That said, here’s his decision via Twitter/X.
After much consideration I’ve decided to reopen my recruitment and decommit from Ohio State. I appreciate Coach Day, Coach Johnson and all the coaches at Ohio State. They are still a top school for me. This is a life decision. Please respect my decision!
— Zahir Mathis (@ZahirMathis5) November 18, 2024
The Buckeyes don’t have many incoming options for the Class of 2025 on the defensive line, so having Mathis decommit should sting some.
Mathis could’ve been alongside Alabama native Zion Grady, the 9th-best EDGE rusher in the class who is committed to Ohio State. Grady committed to Ohio State in June.
The Buckeyes still do have numerous four-star commits coming to Columbus next season with a class spearheaded by quarterback Tavern St. Clair, a five-star prospect and the top-rated Ohio State recruit. Ohio State will have a slew of talented players returning on both sides of the field as well.