Ohio State already has one blue-chip wide receiver locked in for its 2027 recruiting class - Jamier Brown - but another elite pass-catcher is now firmly on the Buckeyes’ radar: Eric McFarland, a dynamic playmaker out of IMG Academy.
McFarland recently made an unofficial visit to Columbus, and by all accounts, the trip made a strong impression. The Buckeyes rolled out the red carpet, and it certainly didn’t hurt that fellow 5-star Jamier Brown was also in town. Adding to the buzz was the presence of Monshun Sales - the No. 1 wide receiver in the country - making the visit a mini summit of elite talent.
While it’s still early in the process - the Early Signing Period for the 2027 class is nearly two years away - Ohio State has clearly positioned itself as a major player in McFarland’s recruitment. According to reports, the Buckeyes are in a three-team race alongside USC and Texas A&M, with those programs currently doing the most to separate themselves from the pack.
McFarland isn’t just another name on the board. He’s a consensus 5-star, ranked as the No. 5 wideout in the country and the No. 23 overall prospect in the 2027 class, per the 247Sports Composite. And with 35 offers already in hand, it’s clear that the competition for his signature is going to be fierce.
Getting him on campus for an unofficial visit is a meaningful first step, but the Buckeyes will be looking to bring him back for an official visit - potentially in June or during the fall for a marquee game in the Horseshoe. Those visits often carry more weight, especially when players get a chance to experience the game-day atmosphere and the full scope of the program.
One factor that could influence McFarland’s decision? Ohio State’s offensive coordinator hire.
With Ryan Day set to bring in a new OC, all eyes are on who will take the reins of the Buckeyes’ high-powered offense. A splashy hire could go a long way in showing top-tier recruits like McFarland that the future in Columbus remains bright - and explosive.
Until then, Day and his staff are staying aggressive on the recruiting trail, and McFarland is shaping up to be one of their top priorities. With his elite speed, polished route-running, and big-play ability, he fits the mold of the kind of receiver Ohio State has built its recent offensive success around. The Buckeyes are in the mix - and they’re not slowing down anytime soon.