The competition between Michigan and Ohio State for the nation’s top 2026 football recruit, offensive tackle Jackson Cantwell, has intensified as both programs vie for his commitment. ding at 6-foot-8 and weighing 315 pounds, Cantwell is a standout at Nixa High School in Missouri and has garnered over 30 scholarship offers from premier programs nationwide.
Iember 2024, Cantwell visited both Ohio State and Michigan, expressing admiration for each institution’s football program and coaching staff. At Ohtate, he met with head coach Ryan Day, offensive coordinator Chip Kelly, and offensive line coach Justin Frye. Cantwelscribed them as “great dudes” and appreciated the insight into the daily operations and philosophies of the Buckeyes’ program. He noted,saw inside the program and learned more about why they do what they do. It was cool to see that.” (si.com)
Following his time in Columbus, Cantwell traveled to Ann Arbor to explore Michigan’serings. He highlighted the Wolverines’ player development program and the depth of their scheme discussions. “I learned more aboutow I would develop d off the field there; we talked some ball. I really enjoyed it,” Cantwell remarked. (si.com)
Beyond these two Big Ten phouses, Cantwell’s top 10 list includes Texas A&M, Miami, Nebraska, Oregon, Georgia, Alabama, Missouri, and LSU. He has expressed intentions torow this list to a final four, with official visits planned for the summer of 2025. Cantwell has emphasized that his decision-making process will cus on schools wherhcan envision himself thriving both on and off the field. I can’t see myself playing for that school, I won’t go on an official visit there. I will go to the places I will enjoy playing at,” he stated. (si.com)
Family ties also play a role in Cantwell’s considerations. His father, Christian Cantwell, is a former Missouri shot putter and Olympic silver medalirSteer, is an SMU Hall of Famer and two-time NCAA shot put champion. These connections have made Missouri a compelling option for him. “I grew up oe Mizzou campus. I think from until I was 8, I basically lived there while my dad was trained to be a professional shot putter. So I knolot about … ,” Cantwell shared.
As the recruitment battle heats up, both Michigan and Ohio State are leveraging their recent successes and storied histories to aato Cantwell. Michigan, under head coach Sherrone Moore, has emphasized its strong offensive line development the opportunity for immediate impact. Ohio State, led by Ryan Day, highlights its consistent presence in the College Football Playoff and a dynamic offensive scheme that could showcase Cantwel talents.
Observers anticipate a competitive battle among these top programs as Cantwell approaches his final decision. His choice will not only impact the future of the program he selects but also serve as a significant indicator of the current state of the Michigan-Ohio State rivalry in the realm of recruiting.
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