When Tarvos ‘TJ’ Alford committed to Ohio State in late March, it didn’t come quietly. The top-100 recruit and No. 7 linebacker in the 2025 class made his announcement with a ceremony at his high school in Vero Beach, Florida, and an announcement on Instagram Live. His commitment adds to the Buckeyes’ defensive recruiting prowess, which is the best in the nation for the 2025 class.
Alford, a 6-foot-2, 210-pound product, had a number of Florida schools trying to keep him in state. However, he was impressed by linebackers coach James Laurinaitis and the Buckeyes’ commitment to developing players. After visiting campus for the spring game, Alford was convinced that Ohio State was the right place for him.
‘It was great seeing my future home, just getting that feel there, wishing I was on the field,’ Alford said. ‘It was great being around the other commits, getting to know each other because we’re going to be playing with each other soon, so that was good.’
Alford, who will play as a WILL linebacker for the Buckeyes, is excited about the future of the Ohio State defense. With a talented secondary and a strong group of linebackers, he believes the unit has the potential to be a nightmare for opposing teams.
‘I feel like it’s going to be great,’ Alford said. ‘Once we all get there and get settled in, it’s going to be a nightmare for the other opposing team for a long time, so that’s going to be great.’
Alford is scheduled to take his official visit to Ohio State on May 31 and will also take official visits to Florida State and Miami in June. However, he remains committed to the Buckeyes and is eager to make an impact in Columbus.
