What's Happening?
Ohio State University has extended an offer to Jacobo Echeverria, one of the top remaining kickers in the 2026 recruiting class. This decision comes as the Buckeyes face changes in their kicking roster, with Jayden Fielding graduating and Jackson Courville entering the transfer portal. Echeverria, who is ranked as the No. 10 kicker in the 2026 class by Kohl's Kicking Camps, had an impressive senior season at Upper St. Clair in Pittsburgh. He successfully made 12 out of 13 field-goal attempts, with a longest kick of 41 yards, and went 46-of-48 on point-after attempts, with both misses resulting from blocked kicks. Additionally, Echeverria recorded touchbacks on 60 of 70 kickoffs and averaged 48.2 yards on 14 punts, with 10 punts downed inside
the 20-yard line. Ohio State is expected to add multiple kickers this offseason, potentially including transfers and high school recruits like Echeverria.
Why It's Important?
The recruitment of Jacobo Echeverria is significant for Ohio State as it addresses the team's immediate need for a reliable kicker following the departure of key players. Echeverria's strong performance in high school suggests he could be a valuable asset to the Buckeyes, potentially stabilizing their special teams unit. This move also highlights Ohio State's strategic approach to maintaining competitive performance by securing top talent from the high school ranks. For Echeverria, joining a prestigious program like Ohio State could provide him with significant exposure and development opportunities, potentially enhancing his future prospects in collegiate and professional football.
What's Next?
Ohio State will continue to evaluate its options for strengthening its kicking roster, which may include further recruitment from the high school level or the transfer portal. The team's coaching staff will likely focus on integrating new recruits like Echeverria into their system, ensuring they are prepared for the upcoming season. As the offseason progresses, Ohio State's decisions regarding their special teams lineup will be closely watched by fans and analysts, given the critical role of kickers in securing game victories.
