Four-Star Tight End Jelani Thurman Commits To Ohio State

Ohio State offensive coordinator and tight ends coach Kevin Wilson made another splash in the class of 2023, earning the commitment of Fairburn (Ga.) Langston Hughes four-star tight end Jelani Thurman.

Thurman (6-6, 230) committed to Ohio State over his other top schools, including Michigan State, Auburn, Jackson State and Alabama. He is the No. 9 tight end in his class and the No. 11 recruit out of Georgia. He is the second 2023 tight end to commit to Ohio State, joining Thompson’s Station (Tenn.) Independence four-star Ty Lockwood. 

According to 247Sports, Thurman hauled in 31 receptions for 479 yards and seven touchdowns during his junior season. He also contributed on the defensive side of the ball, collecting 61 tackles, five quarterback hurries and a sack. 

“Thurman has great height and an elite frame with long arms and a large catch radius. He owns the body to stay personnel-flexible for the long run. He generally catches the ball away from his body and shows above-average plucking ability,” 247Sports analyst Gabe Brooks said. “He is dangerous in contested situations as a ball winner whose physical tools overwhelm defenders and shows encouraging conviction as a blocker. He flashes pop in his hands and makes disengaging difficult for opposing defenders.” 

He was initially offered by the Buckeyes on Feb. 1 and was primarily recruited by Kevin Wilson. Thurman is the 19th recruit to commit to the Buckeyes in the class of 2023.