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Ohio State's football program is entering a pivotal offseason. Following a national championship victory, coach Ryan Day suddenly saw the departure of defensive coordinator Jim Knowles.
Knowles, feeling undervalued after contract negotiations imploded, abruptly left for Penn State, taking eight starters with him.
The move left a glaring void in Ohio State's defense, prompting a reckoning just as fall's White Out showdown against Penn State looms.
Enter Cooper Witten, the 62, 210pound linebacker and son of NFL tight end legend Jason Witten. The five-star recruit and top-ranked linebacker in the 2027 class was in Columbus this week for his fourth Buckeye recruiting camp.
He didn't mince words about his decision-making criteria: "Ohio State's definitely top five," Witten said, adding, "I just want to play football somewhere... that values me and that I'm going to be able to make an impact at the school."
Rebuilding a defensive powerhouse
Witten's interest couldn't come at a more crucial time. With Knowles' exit, Ohio State needs not only to fill coaching roles but to reinforce its identity on that side of the ball. Urban myths don't build dynasties-tangible talent does.
And snapping up a premier recruit like Witten would signal that the Buckeyes remain the destination for elite defenders, regardless of recent departures.
What Ohio State offers is more than just an emerging coaching staff-it's an established path. James Laurinaitis, now the Buckeyes' linebacker coach, exemplifies that success story.
A three-time All-American, Laurinaitis shares Witten's background: born into athletic prominence (Laurinaitis is the son of wrestling great Road Warrior Animal) and carving out his own journey in Columbus. He's a living blueprint of what Witten could become.
Meanwhile, Tennessee looms as a strong competitor. The Volunteers, driven by familiarity and legacy as Witten's father wore the No. 1 jersey for Tennessee in 2003, are handing out a powerful emotional appeal.
Head coach Josh Heupel's staff is reportedly wooing Cooper with visions of continuing a familial legacy in Knoxville.
Still, Ohio State counters with a promise: a platform built on empathy and shared experiences. Laurinaitis understands both the pressure and privilege of being the son of a star.
His mentorship could provide exactly the kind of Witten needs to forge his own identity, separate from his father yet standing on the same storied stage.
Recruiting insiders are watching intently. Witten's presence at Ohio State may be the first domino in a wider defensive revival.
As the recruiting drama unfolds, one thing is clear: Ohio State is all in on rebuilding its defensive identity. And Cooper Witten might just be the catalyst they need.