Oklahoma State recently landed a major recruit in the Class of 2026: 4‑star defensive lineman Tajh Overton, ranked No. 174 nationally and the No. 1 player in Oklahoma for his class, has committed to the Cowboys. Here’s a full look at what this signing means for OSU and how Overton might impact the program:
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🧠 Player Profile: Tajh Overton
Rankings: Overton is a consensus 4‑star recruit. He’s ranked No. 174 overall and sits at No. 27 among defensive linemen, according to 247Sports .
Measurements & Performance: Standing at 6’3″ and about 275 lb (some sources list 280 lb), Overton plays along the interior defensive line. In his sophomore year at Owasso HS, he recorded 64–65 tackles, 25 tackles for loss, ~5 sacks, and around 15 QB pressures .
In-State Pedigree: He’s the top-ranked Oklahoma native and the highest-rated in-state OSU signee since Kendal Daniels in 2021 .
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🎓 Recruitment Journey
Offer List: Overton fielded offers from power programs including Oklahoma, Ole Miss, Texas A&M, Nebraska, Florida, USC, Tennessee, Michigan State and Miami (FL), plus many others .
Official Visits: He officially visited OSU on June 17, then OU on June 20. The Cowboys’ pitch—featuring new defensive line coach Ryan Osborn—clearly resonated .
Commitment Decision: On June 27, Overton announced via social media that he’d chosen Stillwater over OU, Ole Miss, and 23 others .
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🏈 Impact on Oklahoma State
1. Strengthening the D-Line Core
Overton joins a deep defensive line group that includes fellow 4‑star Danny Beale III, creating a formidable interior front. Along with Mozo edge rusher Landon Bland, OSU is building a tough trench lineup .
2. Building Locally
He’s the fifth Oklahoma native in OSU’s Class of ’26—joining KD Jones (Jenks), Trey McGlothlin (Bixby), Aiden Martin (Berryhill), and Carter Langenderfer (Owasso)—continuing the Cowboys’ tradition of dominating in-state recruiting .
3. Class Ranking Boost
With Overton’s commitment, OSU’s recruiting class climbs to No. 50 nationally and rises into the top 10 in Big 12 standings, currently sitting at No. 9—outpacing programs like Cincinnati and Kansas State .
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💡 Why It Matters
Elite In-State Talent: OSU’s ability to land the top Oklahoma recruit helps the program maintain dominance close to home.
Defensive Momentum: As defensive line coach Osborn carves out a rugged culture, Overton’s presence adds manpower and versatility.
Big 12 Positioning: This commitment helps solidify OSU’s class as one of the strongest in the conference with limited commits.
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In short, Tajh Overton’s pledge is a significant win for Oklahoma State. He’s a ready-made interior lineman who brings strength, local ties, and national recognition. With his blend of talent and size, Overton bolsters a Cowboys front that’s already drawing praise—and gives them another key weapon as they build toward the 2026 season.