Jonathon Cooper Commits to Ohio State: What 4-Star DE Brings to Buckeyes

Ohio State acquired a foundational member for its 2016 recruiting class Friday when in-state standout Jonathon Cooper publicly shared his pledge to the Buckeyes. He initially committed to the team in October but waited to share his decision, per Steve Wiltfong of 247Sports.

The 6'3", 215-pound Columbus area product is considered a 4-star defender and could ultimately fill multiple roles in college. He is projected to play weak-side defense end and rates 13th nationally among prospects at the position in 247Sports' composite 2016 rankings.

Cooper received a scholarship offer from head coach Urban Meyer this summer while attending camp. The longtime Buckeyes fan fulfilled a lifetime dream by accepting it.  

"What made Ohio State right for me that it's right here at home, I grew up an Ohio State fan, the coaches are great, I found a connection and I feel I have a good relationship with the people," he told Wiltfong. 

Cooper holds offers from an array of college programs, including Notre Dame, Kentucky and Michigan State. He visited the Fighting Irish earlier this season but ultimately decided to stay home. 

The Lincoln High School junior is a scheme-diverse playmaker who already possesses impressive physical tools and carries quite a reputation as a pass-rusher. Cooper has collected 11.5 sacks through 10 games this season, per MaxPreps.

He's hardly a one-dimensional defender, contributing mightily against the run along the perimeter and inside. Among his 80 total tackles, 46 are solo and 11 have occurred behind the line of scrimmage.

Cooper exhibits an explosive blend of lateral quickness and downfield power that should continue to develop through physical maturation. He already does an admirable job of maintaining technique and doesn't allow himself to lose track of what's happening in the offensive backfield.

Ohio State now holds four commitments, including three 4-star recruits, in its 2016 class. Each pledge is an in-state prospect.

Recruit ratings courtesy of 247Sports.