Simote Katoanga
Buckeyes Miss Out on Top 2026 Edge Rusher as USC Lands Commitment
The Ohio State Buckeyes have already secured a pair of four-star edge rushers in their 2025 recruiting class, but their pursuit of top-tier defensive talent for 2026 took a hit this week.
One of their top targets, four-star edge rusher Simote Katoanga, announced his verbal commitment to USC on Thursday, as first reported by On3’s Steve Wiltfong.
“I chose USC because I want to be a part of the change and revival,” Katoanga told Wiltfong. “I always hear of USC being a powerhouse, but I grew up seeing that in Oregon.”
Katoanga emphasized his desire to help keep California talent at home and restore the Trojans’ national prominence.
“I want to be the team that inspires California kids to stay home and play for the Cardinal and Gold,” he added. “I decided now because why wait for the inevitable? The coaches and staff have made me feel like a priority from when I got offered.”
Ohio State wasn’t the only top program left disappointed. Katoanga also turned down offers from Notre Dame, Washington, and several other schools.
Ranked as a top-15 defensive lineman and California prospect in the 2026 class by the 247Sports Composite Rankings, Katoanga is the 108th overall player in the cycle. The 6-foot-5, 250-pound pass rusher will play his senior season at Santa Margarita Catholic in Rancho Santa Margarita, Calif.
Ohio State now has four verbal commitments in its 2026 class, including four-star cornerback Jakob Weatherspoon, the lone defensive recruit so far. While the Buckeyes remain in pursuit of more defensive talent, Katoanga’s decision is a reminder that the battle for elite prospects is far from over.
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