Top Recruit Chris Henry Jr. Stuns Ohio State, Announces New College Commitment Live on Pat McAfee Show

Five-star wide receiver Chris Henry Jr. is set to announce his college decision live on television. The elite 2026 recruit will reveal his choice on “The Pat McAfee Show” at 12:10 p.m. ET. This follows his shocking decision to not sign with Ohio State on National Signing Day. His commitment will reshape the national recruiting landscape.The announcement concludes a dramatic 48-hour saga. Henry Jr., who had been verbally committed to Ohio State since July 2023, refused to sign his National Letter of Intent on Wednesday. This sudden reversal sent shockwaves through the college football world and ignited a fierce final recruiting battle.

Coaching Departure Triggers Recruiting Earthquake

Henry Jr.’s decision stems from a major coaching change. Ohio State offensive coordinator and wide receivers coach Brian Hartline left the program Wednesday. Hartline accepted the head coaching position at the University of South Florida.The prospect was reportedly surprised by Hartline’s departure. He immediately decided to reopen his recruitment. Henry Jr. publicly stated he was weighing his options due to the coaching changes. This opened the door for several powerhouse programs to make a last-minute push.

Oregon and USC Vie for Class Ranking Supremacy

Henry Jr.’s choice now carries massive implications. According to 247Sports, his decision could determine which program finishes with the top-ranked 2026 recruiting class. USC currently holds the No. 1 spot, with Oregon close behind.If Henry Jr. chooses Oregon, the Ducks are projected to leapfrog USC for the top class. His commitment is that impactful. Other programs like Texas, LSU, and West Virginia also remain in contention. The live announcement adds a high-stakes, public finale to this recruiting drama.Ohio State head coach Ryan Day made a final pitch to keep the talented receiver. He emphasized the program’s unmatched history of developing NFL wideouts. Nine Ohio State receivers have been first-round NFL Draft picks in recent years.

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That track record includes stars like Garrett Wilson, Chris Olave, and Marvin Harrison Jr. Despite this compelling argument, the loss of Hartline proved a significant hurdle. The Buckeyes now face the real possibility of losing a cornerstone of their future offense.

Info at your fingertips

Why did Chris Henry Jr. decommit from Ohio State?

He decommitted after Ohio State wide receivers coach Brian Hartline left the program. Hartline’s departure to become South Florida’s head coach caused Henry Jr. to reconsider his future and explore other options.

What time is the commitment announcement?

The announcement is scheduled for 12:10 p.m. Eastern Time. It will be broadcast live on “The Pat McAfee Show,” which is available on ESPN and YouTube.

Which schools are the main contenders?

Oregon and USC are considered the frontrunners following his decommitment. Texas, LSU, and West Virginia are also actively in the mix for his signature.

How does this affect team recruiting rankings?

His decision is pivotal for the 2026 class rankings. If he chooses Oregon, analysts project the Ducks will overtake USC for the No. 1 overall recruiting class in the nation.

Who is Chris Henry Jr.’s father?

He is the son of the late Chris Henry, a former NFL wide receiver for the Cincinnati Bengals. His father played college football at West Virginia University, which is why the Mountaineers are considered a sentimental option.

Where does Henry Jr. rank as a prospect?

He is rated as a five-star recruit. Major services list him as the No. 32 overall player and the No. 3 wide receiver in the entire 2026 recruiting class.