In a move reminiscent of 2017, The Ohio State University is once again securing some of the best Texas talent. In 2017, the Buckeyes landed top recruits Jeff Okudah and Baron Browning, two highly coveted players from Texas. Now, in 2025, the Buckeyes are set to repeat this success with commitments from five-star cornerback Devin Sanchez and linebacker Riley Pettijohn.
“My senior year is going to be the best because I have evolved my game,” said Sanchez. “I fully understand my role and how that plays into our defense. I think that is what sets me apart from everyone else. I am in full command of my technique and what I can do as a player on the field.”
Sanchez, a highly-rated cornerback and one of the top prospects in the 2025 class has committed to The Ohio State University. Sanchez was also heavily recruited by powerhouse programs Alabama and Texas A&M, but ultimately chose to join the Buckeyes. His decision adds significant strength to Ohio State’s recruiting class, which now boasts two of the three five-star cornerbacks available in the 2025 class, according to major recruiting websites.
“Coach Walton and I have built a good relationship because we talk more than ball,” said Sanchez. “Coach Walt knows what is important to me because it’s also important to him; family. He knows me as a person and not just a player.”
Standing at 6-foot-3 with a 6’5.25 wingspan, Sanchez combines size with exceptional agility, making him a formidable presence on the field. His length and closing ability make him effective both at the line of scrimmage and deeper into routes. With his recruitment process behind him, Sanchez has been able to focus on developing his skills and enhancing his game.
“Devin Sanchez is a three-year starter who is very talented and the stage is never too big for him,” said North Shore head football coach Willie Gaston.
During the offseason, Sanchez trained with Houston Texans cornerback Jeffrey Chidera Okudah, a former Ohio State standout, further cementing the Buckeyes’ connection to top-tier defensive talent. Sanchez also honed his skills with Coach Flight at FlightSkillz and worked with Jacory Nichols, refining his technique and preparing for the next level.
“I’ve been blessed to have a lot of people in my corner,” said Sanchez. “When I work with guys like Jacory (1way) or Jeff Okudah I am working all aspects of my game. We touch it all from big picture stuff to small details. I am really trying to learn how to work and train like a pro before I get to college.”
Last season, Sanchez and his team, the North Shore Mustangs, finished with a 15-1 record, falling short 33-49, in the 6A Division I UIL state championship game at AT&T Stadium against Duncanville High School.
“I learned that everything is earned from last year’s loss. I learned that the expectations at North Shore are different and the standards are extremely high. We don’t accept losing. We are working to get back to Dallas and bring back that state trophy to the Eastside,” said Sanchez.
As he prepares to take his talents to Ohio State, Sanchez is expected to make an immediate impact and help the Buckeyes continue their tradition of excellence in the secondary.
“I am coming for that #1 spot in Columbus,” said Sanchez. “I want to be the first guy to have his black stripe removed in the 25 class. I can’t wait to get to Ohio State, but I know I have to finish things here at North Shore. We have to win district, win Region III, and beat that team up north to win state. That’s my focus right now.”
With commitments from players like Sanchez and Pettijohn, Ohio State is once again demonstrating its ability to attract elite talent from Texas, reinforcing its reputation as a premier destination for top high school football players.
About Devin Sanchez:
Class: 2025
IG: @iimdevin_
Twitter: @Devin2416
Position: Cornerback
Height & weight: 6-feet-3, 185 pounds
Favorite artist: Rio Da Yung Og
Status: Committed to Ohio State University
Favorite subject: Math
Shout-outs: My parents, brother Dylan, sister Danni, my grandparents, aunts, uncles, North Shore brothers and coaches, and #THE25 Buckeye brothers.
