Lucas (Texas) Lovejoy four-star linebacker Payton Pierce has committed to Ohio State, becoming the sixth pledge for the Buckeyes in the span of 15 days.

While the top-100 prospect had initially planned on seeing many other schools this spring and summer before making a decision, Pierce's most recent visit to Columbus sealed the deal for the Buckeyes.

"When I went up for my visit, it was the players on the team, the culture they have and the way they interact and compete at practice," Pierce said. "It just feels like home and the place I want to be. Their coaching staff is top-notch which will not only make me a better player but a better man. It really feels like the right place for me."

Despite Pierce battling injury for most of his junior season and some schools falling off with communication as a result, Ohio State and linebackers coach James Laurinaitis remained steadfast in their pursuit.

"They haven't stopped recruiting me," he said. "I have a really great relationship with Coach Laurinaitis. He's done it at the highest level and he's done it the right way. I think it's really cool to have someone who knows how to do it at that university and at that position so I think it's just a really special opportunity. Their defense fits me real well."

On his visit, Pierce was able to meet extensively with both the football staff and representatives from the university which gave him a closer feeling while in Columbus.

"Love the campus, love the stadium," he said. "With the size of the university, there are a lot of connections you can get there. There are a lot of cool opportunities at Ohio State that you don't get at other schools."

While the recruiting process was extensive and crowded for Pierce, he is happy to look forward knowing where he will spend his time in college.

"I'm ready to get it over with," he said. "I already know I'm going there and I don't want to keep doing this recruiting process. I want to focus on my team and my guys, so now I'm gonna do it."

As for now, Pierce will focus on his senior football season while putting his recruiting hat on for the Buckeyes with one major target already in mind.

"Nigel Smith," Pierce said.

At 6-foot-2, 225 pounds, Pierce is ranked as the No. 77 recruit in the country for the class of 2024, according to Rivals. He is the No. 4 inside linebacker in the country and the No. 11 recruit from the state of Texas.