JUST IN: Nation’s No. 2 LB Kaden Henderson Says He “Can See Himself at Ohio State”
Kaden Henderson’s words sent a jolt through the recruiting world on Wednesday morning. The No. 2 linebacker in the nation and one of the most coveted defensive players in the 2025 class made it clear that the Buckeyes are not just in the mix — they might be leading it. “I can see myself at Ohio State,” Henderson said, flashing a grin that said more than his words. For a program already known for producing NFL-caliber linebackers, that simple statement could be a glimpse into the future of another defensive cornerstone in scarlet and gray.
Henderson, a 6-foot-3, 230-pound heat-seeking missile out of Buford High School in Georgia, has long been a dominant force on the field. He’s fast, physical, and fundamentally sound — the type of linebacker who can patrol sideline to sideline and make plays at every level of the defense. College programs across the country have lined up with offers, from Alabama and Georgia to USC and Texas. But something about Ohio State has resonated deeply with him, and that connection is starting to sound more and more like a commitment in the making.
His visit to Columbus last weekend was a game-changer, according to sources close to his recruitment. From the moment he stepped on campus, Henderson was struck by the energy of the program, the culture of accountability, and the brotherhood that’s been the hallmark of Ohio State football. “It’s not just the facilities or the coaches,” Henderson explained. “It’s the mindset. Everybody there is hungry. Everybody is working. It felt like home.”
Ohio State linebackers coach James Laurinaitis — himself a Buckeye legend and former NFL standout — has played a pivotal role in Henderson’s growing interest. Laurinaitis’ passion for the game and hands-on mentorship have made a lasting impression on the young linebacker. “Coach Laurinaitis is different,” Henderson said. “He’s been through it. He’s played at the highest level. But what I respect most is how real he is. He tells me what I need to hear, not just what I want to hear. That’s what makes me better.”
Henderson also spoke highly of head coach Ryan Day, describing him as a leader who builds trust through actions, not just words. “Coach Day’s vision for the program is clear,” he noted. “He’s not just talking championships, he’s building the foundation every day to win them. That means something.”
During his visit, Henderson spent significant time with current players, including standout linebacker C.J. Hicks and recent commit Tarvos Alford. That peer connection, often overlooked in the recruiting process, turned out to be one of the most influential factors. “They didn’t try to sell me on anything,” Henderson said. “They just showed me what it means to be a Buckeye. They talked about the grind, the expectations, and how it’s more than football. That stuck with me.”
Recruiting insiders say Henderson’s comments are more than just lip service. While he has not named a definitive top three or announced a commitment date, the momentum appears to be shifting decisively toward Ohio State. “There’s no doubt that Ohio State has put itself in a great position,” one recruiting analyst shared. “The visit was a home run, and the staff has built a level of trust that’s rare in a recruitment this competitive.”
Still, this is far from a done deal. Henderson is expected to take at least two more official visits this summer, with Alabama and Georgia looming large as contenders. Both programs have made the linebacker a top priority, with Alabama’s Nick Saban and Georgia’s Kirby Smart personally leading the charge. Those two schools have a proven track record of producing defensive juggernauts, and Henderson has grown up in SEC country, surrounded by their influence.
However, the pull of the Big Ten — and Ohio State’s unique blend of tradition and innovation — seems to be growing stronger by the day. For Henderson, it’s not just about playing time or NIL opportunities. It’s about development, identity, and legacy. “At the end of the day, I want to be somewhere that challenges me and prepares me for the next level,” he said. “I want to be part of something bigger than myself.”
That mindset aligns perfectly with the Buckeye brand. For years, Ohio State has turned elite high school defenders into NFL Draft picks. From Chase Young and Jeff Okudah to Malik Harrison and Denzel Ward, the program’s resume speaks for itself. Henderson, with his blend of speed, intelligence, and leadership, looks like the next in line. But it’s not just about football. Ohio State’s commitment to academic success and personal growth has also appealed to Henderson’s family, who emphasized the importance of life beyond the gridiron.
His mother, Shante, who joined him on the visit, was impressed by the university’s support systems and emphasis on family culture. “They treated us like we were already part of the family,” she said. “It wasn’t just about Kaden as a player — it was about who he is as a person. That means everything to us.”
The Buckeyes’ pursuit of Henderson has been relentless but respectful, focusing on relationships rather than sales pitches. That approach is paying off. The linebacker room, which is already stacked with talent, is looking for its next leader — someone who can carry the torch and set the tone for the future. In Henderson, the staff sees not just a future star, but a potential captain. A tone-setter. A difference-maker.
Henderson’s game film backs that up. His junior season was nothing short of dominant, racking up over 120 tackles, 18 tackles for loss, and 7 sacks while also forcing three fumbles. He showcased elite instincts and closing speed, with a motor that never quits and a nose for the football that few high school players possess. His coverage skills are also advanced for his age, allowing him to stay on the field in any situation.
That versatility is one of the reasons Ohio State has made him such a priority. In defensive coordinator Jim Knowles’ aggressive scheme, linebackers are expected to do it all — blitz, cover, communicate, and lead. Henderson fits that mold perfectly. “They showed me how I’d be used,” he said. “I’d have the freedom to make plays, but also the structure to grow into the best version of myself. That’s all I can ask for.”
As the summer rolls on, all eyes will be on Henderson’s next moves. He’s expected to attend several national camps, and his final list of visits could shift depending on how those experiences go. But make no mistake: Ohio State is in a strong position. The momentum is real, the interest is mutual, and the bond is growing deeper by the day.
Henderson’s recruitment may still have twists and turns ahead, but for now, his latest comments have ignited excitement and speculation across Buckeye Nation. A commitment may not be imminent, but the path appears to be pointing toward Columbus.
When asked if he’s feeling pressure to make a decision soon, Henderson shook his head. “Not really,” he said. “I’m going to take my time and make the right choice. But I know what I felt at Ohio State. That’s not something you forget.”
If that feeling holds, Ryan Day and the Buckeyes could soon be welcoming another elite defender into the fold — a player with the skill, mindset, and leadership to carry the tradition forward. For now, Kaden Henderson remains uncommitted. But his heart may already be wearing scarlet and gray.
