CLEVELAND, Ohio – Ohio State extended an offer to four-star defensive tackle Brayden Parks on June 12, following his performance at a recent recruiting camp.
The 6-foot-3, 305-pound standout from Brother Rice High School in Chicago impressed the Buckeyes’ staff during the event.
“My experience with Ohio State has been great,” said Parks, a member of the 2027 class. “When I attended camp in the spring, Coach (Larry) Johnson told me he wanted me to earn the offer. After the camp in June, I had a chance to meet with Coach Johnson and Coach (Ryan) Day. It was great working with them.”
Parks is ranked No. 26 among defensive linemen and No. 234 overall in the 2027 class, according to the 247Sports Composite rankings.
“On the field, you’re not just looking at a typical defensive tackle — you’re talking about a 300-pound athlete,” said Brother Rice head coach Casey Quedenfeld. “If we really wanted to, we could line him up at running back. He’s incredibly athletic, explosive off the snap, and plays with powerful hands. He definitely has the potential to play on Sundays.”
Ohio State’s offer to Parks comes just under two weeks after fellow Big Ten powerhouse Oregon extended one on May 30.
“It’s been exciting to watch the Big Ten grow and expand these past few years,” Parks said. “Seeing some of the best players in the NFL come out of the Big Ten lately makes them feel like role models.”
The Chicago native continues to stack up major offers, with many Big Ten programs showing serious interest. Among the most notable are Michigan, Michigan State, Indiana, and Iowa.
“I’m grateful — it’s a blessing to even be in this position,” Parks said. “Not many people get this opportunity. The recruiting process is both fun and stressful, but it’s part of the journey. My family’s been amazing — they’re excited for me and helping guide me in the right direction.”
“He’s living the dream that so many kids have,” Quedenfeld added. “He’ll get to pick the school that believes in him — and that he believes in, too. It’s all about building mutual relationships. Brayden’s just looking for the right opportunity.”
Now heading into his junior year, Parks is enjoying the ride and not rushing any decisions.
“I haven’t made a list yet,” he said. “Ohio State is definitely one of the top schools that have offered me. But in the end, it’s going to come down to relationships with coaches and what my family thinks is the best fit for me.”
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