5-star Texas OLB target Baron Browning commits to Ohio State

Less than two weeks after trimming his list to only six schools — a cut the Texas Longhorns failed to make — five-star Kennedale outside linebacker Baron Browning has committed to Ohio State.

Throughout his entire recruitment, the Buckeyes were considered one of, if not the frontrunners for the nation’s No. 9 overall player, and Urban Meyer and his staff’s emphasis on landing Browning was evident as the Buckeye brass were all in attendance for an in-home visit with Browning on Wednesday.

Browning said on Tuesday that he would no longer be deciding on his initial decision date of Wednesday due to needing more time, which served as a bit of hope for the Longhorn faithful as Texas transitions into a new coaching staff. But just two days later, following his Wednesday in-home visit, Browning finalized his decision.

Unless he completely closes his recruitment and refuses to speak with other coaches, it’s unlikely Browning’s commitment to Tom Herman’s former mentor in Meyer is going to keep Texas from pursuing the elite in-state talent up until signing day. If Tim Brewster makes his way to Austin from Florida State, Texas will have a relationship with Browning to build upon.

Until then, though, Browning is a Buckeye and the news isn’t exactly a surprise. Browning was among those that wanted to see Texas win in 2016 and after only five wins in 12 tries and a coaching change, the odds against Texas outlasting Ohio State, Alabama, Florida State continued to dwindle as the season progressed.

Browning is ranked as the nation’s No. 2 outside linebacker and the No. 3 player in Texas.