Tight End Sam Hart from Cherokee Trail HS recently committed to the Ohio State Buckeyes for 2021. His quick commitment is somewhat of a surprise as 2021 prospects could not talk to schools until September 2020. "Why Wait, it feels right to commit to Ohio State." he told reporters when making an announcement. Hart is the 15th ranked TE in the country, 4th in Colorado overall. He had 22 scholarship offers including Penn State, LSU, Oregon, and Notre Dame.
When it came to committing he called coach Tony Alford and said he was ready to be a Buckeye. Then he called tight ends coach Kevin Wilson and head coach Ryan Day. Everyone was "super pumped up" Hart said.
Sam Harts College Visits
Hart has taken two visits to Columbus, one during the Penn State game. He was recruited by Kevin Wilson (TE coach) and Tony Alford (who handles the Colorado area). On the most recent visit, his family drove around Columbus and liked everything there is to do. He thought the campus itself was beautiful. Hart hasn't met any kids from 2021 yet. But he did meet a 2022 tackle prospect on campus. He liked Roosters near Ohio State for a meal choice. His high school coach is from Ohio State and recommended the spot.
What Sam Hart Liked about the Buckeyes
The coaches at OSU stood out and talked to him a lot during his recruitment. No other school talked to him as much as Ohio State. And It felt like home when he was on campus. He likes that the room at Ohio State for TEs in 2021 is wide-open. He also feels that he will get to player early if he works hard. Even with a 2nd Tight End in the same year class he can get on the field.
He felt Ohio State was a better fit than Notre Dame, that OSU would make him a better person and football player. He also liked that TEs from Ohio State go to the NFL even though they don't get too many passes. OSU Tight Ends learn blocking and the full role in an offense he reported.
What Sam Hart Offers
He feels that he could play in a traditional role or spread out. He's currently 6'5" and 225lbs. He has two brothers that both played college football and has experience with coaches leaving after committing, so that's not a concern. His brother Nick played TE at Minnesota while his brother Alex played MLB at New Mexico.
Sam Hart Ultimate Highlights // 2021 Ohio State TE Commit // Cherokee Trail Junior SZN
Hart Moving Forward
Sam Hart wants to focus on wrestling this year and next. He took 2nd in state last year. He will take an official visit to Ohio State and might take part in the Opening. He also wants to work on route running and open field blocking during his senior season. Therefore he does not want to early enroll. He would rather complete his senior season and wrestle.