What 4-Star LB Nick Conner's Commitment Means for Ohio State

Ohio State endured a slow start to the 2015 recruiting cycle but momentum continues to mount during the early stages of summer. In-state linebacker Nick Conner elevated the class Tuesday evening when he shared his commitment on Instagram.

"I just want to say that I have officially committed to play football at The Ohio State University," he wrote in a statement that accompanied a photo montage.

Connor, a 4-star prospect from Dublin, Ohio, pledged to Ohio State shortly after receiving his offer at a Buckeyes camp. The 6'3", 225-pound playmaker became the newest member of Urban Meyer's class before leaving campus:

Ohio State suddenly has seven commits after failing to pick up a pledge for more than three months. Florida safety Ben Edwards, who joined the class in February, flipped to Auburn in April and left the class with just two prospects for a five-week span.

Quarterback Joe Burrow ended the drought on May 27, and Meyer has since steadily assembled a quality group of talent. Conner is the most crucial pickup this year.

He holds a score of 0.917 in 247Sports' composite ratings, which is good enough for second in the class. Only cornerback Eric Glover-Williams, who committed last summer, is more highly rated.  

Conner, who rated fifth nationally among inside linebackers in 247Sports' composite rankings, is an extremely productive player at Dublin Scioto High School. He tallied 129 tackles in 2013, including 19 for loss.

Credit: 247Sports

He exhibited well-rounded effectiveness, collecting 5.5 sacks and three interceptions. Connor chose Ohio State from an expansive offer list that includes Oregon, West Virginia, Kentucky and Michigan State.

His decision to jump at the freshly extended Buckeyes offer could further motivate other Ohio State targets to commit. The Buckeyes are heavily invested in the pursuit of a pair of in-state outside linebackers who could complement Conner at the next level. 

Justin Hilliard (Cincinnati) and Jerome Baker (Cleveland) are coveted athletes who Meyer aims to keep on their home turf. A lengthy recruiting lull may have perplexed both players, but the team's recent success—five commits in three weeks—may be enough to turn the tide and create an impression that now is the time to hop on the Buckeyes bandwagon.

Ohio State's class currently rates 37th nationally in 247Sports' composite rankings. Given Meyer's impressive track record on the recruiting trail, it's safe to say the team's trajectory is pointed upward.

Recruit information and ratings provided by 247Sports unless otherwise noted.

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