Ohio State lands four-star DT Karlos May, jumps to No. 6 in Rivals rankings

Ohio State secured the commitment of four-star defensive tackle Karlos May on Saturday, adding a significant piece to its 2027 recruiting class and pushing the Buckeyes to No. 6 in the Rivals Team Recruiting Rankings.

May is the 19th commitment in Ohio State's 2027 class. He chose the Buckeyes over Auburn and Georgia, two programs that had been heavily involved in his recruitment. Auburn had been considered an early favorite for the prospect, while May himself indicated that Georgia had appeared to be his likely destination before a visit to Columbus changed his thinking.

A win from the heart of SEC territory

The addition is notable for its geographic significance. May is listed as Alabama's No. 5 player in the 2027 class, making the Buckeyes' ability to pull him out of SEC country a meaningful recruiting victory for head coach Ryan Day and his staff. Auburn had built strong momentum recruiting within its home state this cycle before missing on May.

Ohio State has prioritized the defensive trenches in the 2027 cycle, and May's commitment continues that emphasis. The Buckeyes now hold a top-ten position nationally in the Rivals team rankings, rising to sixth overall following Saturday's announcement.

The commitment adds to what has been a strong stretch on the recruiting trail for Ohio State. Day and his staff have landed a series of key pieces on the defensive side of the ball, reinforcing the program's reputation as a consistent destination for top defensive line prospects from across the country.