After listing the UCF Knights in his final list of five schools that also included Miami, Florida, and Penn State, four-star defensive lineman Jarquez Carter committed to the Ohio State Buckeyes on Thursday, per On3’s Hayes Fawcett.
The Buckeyes continued to strengthen its defensive line in the 2025 cycle, with Carter becoming the third player of that position to sign with Ohio State.
UCF misses out on the star defender after finishing last season with an overall record of 6-7 during the team’s first season in the Big 12 Conference.
On3 ranks the future Buckeye as the 36th best player in his position and 403rd best overall prospect.
Head Coach Gus Malzahn is entering his fourth season leading the way for the Knights, and has brought in several talents from the 2025 class including four-star commits safety Kendarius Reddick, offensive tackle Chastan Brown, running back Taevion Swint, wide receiver Waden Charles, and safety Tony Williams.
UCF made a statement last season, defeating No. 15 Oklahoma State that featured one of the best running backs in the country with Ollie Gordon II.
The team will look to carry that momentum in the 2024 season, starting in the season opener against New Hampshire on Thursday, Aug 29, at 7 p.m. EST.
