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Five-star wide receiver Chris Henry Jr. is still committed to the Ohio State football program. The Buckeyes, however, are missing his paperwork.
The pass catcher has not signed his letter of intent. It’s opened the door for a bidding war as other suitors come calling.
Henry has been an Ohio State pledge since July of 2023. A number of competing schools have attempted to make runs at the nation’s top-ranked receiver, but he’s remained firm in his decision.
There had been little drama in his recruitment up through signing day. Now, his future is uncertain.
Chris Henry Jr. has not signed his paperwork.
I have not signed yet. Still trying to weigh my options due to coaching changes I just want to make the right decision for my future.
Gods plan
— Chris Henry Jr (@ChrisHenryJr) December 3, 2025
Staff changes in Columbus are to blame. Offensive coordinator Brian Hartline is now the head coach at South Florida.
Hartline has been Henry’s recruiter from the get-go. The relationship was the top factor in his Ohio State pledge. With Hartline out of the picture, Henry isn’t sure the Buckeyes are the right choice.
As Ohio State awaits a decision, Texas, USC, and Oregon pounce.
A bidding war has been ignited.
The latest intel suggests that Texas has presented a strong NIL offer and the Longhorns should not be taken lightly in this race for Henry.
The Longhorns are pursuing Henry with the lure of NIL cash. It’s reasonable to believe the Trojans and Ducks are doing the same.
Texas insider Geoff Ketchum confirmed the narrative with an update on Thursday.
Texas seems very, very, very motivated with regards to Chris Henry Jr.
— Geoff Ketchum (@gkketch) December 4, 2025
Ryan Day is negatively recruiting.
While Texas is positioning itself well, Oregon is trending as the top threat to flip Henry. Wiltfong opened up on the Ducks’ standing Thursday.
Dan Lanning and his program are emerging as the favorite. Henry’s relationship with Lanning being a big part of that along with the NIL opportunity that’s on the table…
I like where it’s at with Oregon.
-Steve Wiltfong
With the Ducks lurking, Day reportedly reminded Henry of Oregon’s lacking NFL representation at wide receiver.
Wiltfong says that in a Wednesday night call, the head coach brought up Ohio State’s nine first-round draft picks at the position. Those pass catchers have been produced under many different coaches and staffs.
Oregon has had none (since 1972).
Day tried to make the point that Ohio State’s success at receiver runs deeper than just Hartline. That may not matter to Chris Henry Jr., who has until Friday to make a decision in the early signing window.
The coach’s departure has created doubt. It may lead to a change of heart – and a nice payday.