When four-star 2024 Texas defensive end Nigel Smith took his first visit to Ohio State in late November, he was able to spend 20 minutes with Larry Johnson as the longtime defensive line coach broke down Smith’s film with him.
At the conclusion of the breakdown, Johnson told Smith he’d eventually evaluate a full game Smith played for Melissa High School (Melissa, Texas). If Johnson liked what he saw, an offer would soon follow.
On Jan. 21, Johnson visited Smith in Texas. Johnson had some welcome news for the 6-foot-4, 245-pound prospect when he presented Smith with a scholarship offer to play for Ohio State.