5-Star OT Nicholas Petit-Frere Commits to Ohio State over Alabama, Florida

Nicholas Petit-Frere, a 5-star offensive tackle who rose to prominence at Berkeley Preparatory School in Tampa, Florida, committed to Ohio State over Alabama and Florida on Wednesday.  

Tom VanHaaren of ESPN first relayed news of Petit-Frere's decision. 

Petit-Frere's excellence is reflected in his status as the class of 2018's 7th-ranked player, according to 247Sports' composite. He's also the top-ranked offensive tackle in the country among 2018 recruits and No. 3 player in the state of Florida—which annually churns out a sizable chunk of the nation's top talent. 

According to Scout's official analysis, Petit-Frere sports a mean streak, as evidenced by the way he's "always looking to put his opponent flat on their back." Scout also praised Petit-Frere as "a fluid athlete who can really bend and get underneath his opponent in the trenches."

However, the Under Armour All-American isn't without warts. 

Although he's got ideal height for a future left tackle at 6'6", Petit-Frere is listed at 272 pounds and will need to add considerable muscle and overall bulk to his frame if he hopes to wear down opponents at the next level. 

The Buckeyes are always on the lookout for physically gifted offensive tackles who can be tone-setters in pass protection and the running game, which makes Petit-Frere a perfect fit. 

However, the newest Buckeye will have to add some muscle mass if he hopes to reach his ceiling at the collegiate level. But if he can do just that, it may not be long before Petit-Frere emerges as an anchor on the edge. 

Getting a grip on a starting job as a freshman won't be easy if Petit-Frere maintains his slender stature, but he has a chance to evolve into a real force if he morphs into a sturdier presence who can handle fearsome front-seven presences.