Breaking down Javontae Jean-Baptiste's commitment to Ohio State
The last three months have been a whirlwind experience for four-star Javontae Jean-Baptiste but it has all come to an end with his commitment to Ohio State. The Oradell (N.J.) Bergen Catholic linebacker chose the Buckeyes over Virginia Tech, Nebraska, and Texas A&M during a ceremony at his school. Jean-Baptiste almost signed with Virginia Tech during the early signing period but decided to hold off so he could take official visits to Nebraska, Ohio State, and Texas A&M.
IN HIS OWN WORDS…
“It came down to relationships,” Jean-Baptiste said. “At Ohio State I have great relationships with the coaches. I know those coaches and the players there. I feel like they are invested in me and I want to make that investment back in them.”
WHY IT’S BIG FOR OHIO STATE…
Jean-Baptiste emerged as a major target on the recruiting trail later in the process but was always hoping for an offer from Ohio State. The Buckeyes have have been tracking him since his junior year and made sure that he knew it. That commitment and faith has paid off in a big way.
Jean-Baptiste is a big-time edge defender that is pass-rushing specialist and creates momentum-shifting plays. He is a better run defender than most give him credit for because he does a good job of shedding blockers. The Ohio State strength and conditioning staff will pack a lot of good weight onto Jean-Baptiste’s lean frame and he could end up as a multi-year starter for the Buckeyes.
WHAT’S NEXT FOR THE PROGRAMS THAT MISSED OUT…
Nebraska, Virginia Tech, and Texas A&M were hoping Jean-Baptiste would end up with them but now they need to hope for some luck before the end of National Signing Day. The Cornhuskers don’t have a guy like Jean-Baptiste in their class yet but Nebraska will look to develop overlooked players to fill their needs. Texas A&M is just getting their feet under them with Jimbo Fisher at the helm but the Aggies were seen as a long shot for Jean-Baptiste even after he came away very impressed after his official visit. The Hokies don’t have a player like Jean-Baptiste in their class but Virginia Tech has always done a good job at developing overlooked players to fill their needs.
