COLUMBUS, Ohio — Four-star edge rusher KJ Ford, one of the top prospects in the 2026 class, announced his commitment to Florida on Friday night. The Duncanville (Texas) standout chose the Gators over Ohio State, Alabama, and Texas A&M.
Ford is ranked No. 116 overall and No. 15 among edge rushers nationally, according to the 247Sports composite rankings. He’s also considered the No. 17 player in the state of Texas. Measuring 6-foot-3 and weighing 245 pounds, Ford has been a major target for top programs.
Ohio State extended an offer to Ford on March 13 and hosted him for an official visit on June 20, alongside his Duncanville teammate Landon Barnes. However, the Buckeyes — led by veteran defensive line coach Larry Johnson — were unable to secure a commitment from either player.
According to 247Sports, Ohio State has now offered 21 edge rushers in the 2026 cycle, but only two — Jake Kreul and Anthony Jones — remain uncommitted, and the Buckeyes are not expected to land either.
At the moment, the Buckeyes have only one edge rusher committed: four-star Khary Wilder, ranked No. 246 overall and No. 27 at the position. In total, Ohio State has four defensive linemen committed — Wilder, Damari Simeon, Cameron Brickle, and Jamir Perez — but the lack of depth specifically at edge rusher is becoming a pressing concern in the 2026 class.
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