Get to know Hyattsville (Md.) DeMatha Catholic four-star defensive lineman Jason Moore, who signed his National Letter of Intent with Ohio State on Wednesday.
Height, Weight: 6-6, 255.
247 Composite Rankings: He’s rated as the 65th overall prospect, eighth-best defensive lineman and No. 2 recruit out of Maryland.
Commitment Date: Moore committed to Ohio State on July 10.
Other Offers: Alabama, Auburn, Florida, LSU, Maryland, Michigan, Michigan State, Notre Dame, Oklahoma, Oregon, Penn State, Pitt, Rutgers, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas A&M, USC, Virginia, Virginia Tech, West Virginia.
How he did in high school: Moore had an effective enough high school career to earn an invite to this January’s Under Armour All-American bowl. A multi-year starter at DeMatha — the alma mater of former Ohio State Heisman Trophy finalist defensive end Chase Young — Moore picked up 96 tackles, 18 tackles for loss and 13 sacks as a senior in 2022.
Why he committed to Ohio State: Moore committed to Ohio State on July 10 after visiting Columbus June 24. Defensive line coach Larry Johnson took the lead in his recruitment.
The culture of Ohio State’s program, home-like feel and atmosphere on game days were all big selling points for his commitment.
“I’d say just being out there in that environment,” Moore told ESPN regarding his decision. “I just felt really comfortable with everybody. I felt like it’s an environment where I’ll be pushed to be the best version of myself on and off the field. That’s really the main thing.”
Where he fits for 2023: Moore likely projects as a defensive end though there remains a chance he could slide inside if he and the coaching staff decide to do so.
Ohio State’s defensive end depth is in a good spot for 2023, even if Zach Harrison and Javontae Jean-Baptiste are done with their careers in scarlet and gray. Former five-stars and current starters J.T. Tuimoloau and Jack Sawyer will both be back, with a trio of highly-touted 2022 recruits — Caden Curry, Omari Abor and Kenyatta Jackson — backing them up. Tyler Friday could also return and have some impact after an injury took away his 2022 campaign.
Moore will likely develop behind the scenes and look to find the field in 2024.
