Ohio State’s wide receiver pipeline has produced stars like Garrett Wilson, Chris Olave, Marvin Harrison Jr., and Jeremiah Smith, which is why many expectations are being placed on Ohio State’s new 2026 five-star commit, 17-year-old Chris Henry Jr.
Many are wondering if this young talent, gearing up for his senior season at legendary high school program Mater Dei in Orange County, California, can be the next to uphold the Buckeyes’ high standards.
Chris Henry Jr. Eyes Buckeye Stardom Following Jeremiah Smith’s Breakout Freshman Season
At 6’5″, 205 pounds, Chris Henry Jr. possesses the size, speed, and athleticism that make defensive backs uneasy. The Mater Dei star, ranked as the No. 1 wide receiver and No. 5 overall prospect in the 2026 class by 247Sports, committed to Ohio State in July 2023.
Despite offers from powerhouses like Oregon, USC, and Miami, Henry’s early commitment shows his strong belief in the Buckeyes’ system under wide receivers coach Brian Hartline. Henry’s high school film showcases impressive playmaking potential and contested catches.
In a 2023 game against Bergen Catholic of New Jersey, he caught 16 passes for 316 yards and three touchdowns in just three quarters. His ability to high-point the ball and shield defenders with his frame draws comparisons to NFL star Mike Evans.
Jeremiah Smith, the No. 1 prospect in the 2024 recruiting class, set a high standard as a freshman. With 70 catches, 1,224 yards, and 14 touchdowns, he broke the FBS freshman receiving record and earned Rose Bowl offensive MVP honors.
His one-handed grabs and crucial plays, like a 56-yard reception to secure a 34-23 win over Notre Dame, have NFL scouts highly interested and closely monitoring his progress.
Henry, who trained alongside Smith at an Elite 11 camp, isn’t far behind in talent. Many analysts noted that while perhaps no one was as gifted as Smith at that stage, Henry was not significantly behind. Both can make spectacular catches and are dedicated to refining their skills.
Henry’s decision to end his recruitment in April 2025, canceling visits to Oregon, USC, and Miami, mirrors Smith’s focus when he signed with Ohio State. Hartline’s coaching has transformed Ohio State into a receiver powerhouse. Since 2018, he has mentored four first-round NFL draft picks, with Smith projected to join them in 2027.
It is a valuable opportunity to learn from Smith, who will be a junior when Henry arrives. If Smith stays for his senior year, the two could form a formidable duo alongside Kayden Dixon-Wyatt, a four-star receiver in the 2026 class.
Chris Henry Jr. has the potential to become Ohio State’s next great wide receiver and even live up to the athletic legacy of his late father, Chris Sr. His size, skills, and commitment to Hartline’s system position him to follow Smith’s trajectory.
If he continues to develop, Henry could join Smith in the NFL’s first round, maintaining Ohio State’s “Wide Receiver U” legacy.
College Sports Network has you covered with the latest news, analysis, insights, and trending stories in college football, men’s college basketball, women’s college basketball, and college baseball!
