In a remarkable debut for Ohio State, freshman wide receiver Chris Henry Jr. made his first career catch count by scoring a touchdown. The 15-yard reception from quarterback Tavien St. Clair came late in the fourth quarter during the Buckeyes' commanding 56-3 victory over Ball State.
Henry Jr., a highly regarded five-star recruit, was celebrated as one of the top players in the high school class of 2026. His touchdown not only marked his initial catch at the collegiate level but also showcased his potential as a future star for the Buckeyes. The achievement was highlighted by the Big Ten Network, which shared the moment on social media, emphasizing the significance of the milestone for the young athlete.
Originally from California, Henry Jr. committed to Ohio State in the summer of 2023, quickly establishing himself as the top wide receiver in the nation and the 11th overall player in the 2026 recruiting class. His only competition for the top spot among California recruits was Texas A&M cornerback Brandon Arrington. Despite limited playing time in the season opener, Henry Jr. is expected to develop into a key player for the Buckeyes as the season progresses.
In the same game, Ohio State's standout receiver Jeremiah Smith shone brightly, catching eight passes for 151 yards and scoring two touchdowns in the first half alone before resting for the remainder of the game. Smith's performance included a playful homage to Desmond Howard's iconic Heisman pose after each of his touchdowns, a nod to the rich tradition of college football celebrations.
Ohio State's offense was prolific, with 14 different players catching passes against Ball State. The depth of the receiving corps was evident as only five players recorded multiple receptions, allowing backups to gain valuable experience in a game that was well in hand.
Chris Henry Jr. is the son of former NFL wide receiver Chris Henry, who had a notable but troubled career in the league. The elder Henry amassed nearly 1,900 receiving yards over two seasons at West Virginia before being selected in the third round of the 2005 NFL Draft by the Cincinnati Bengals. His career was marred by legal issues, including multiple arrests and a suspension in 2007. Tragically, Chris Henry Sr. passed away in December 2009, when his son was just two years old, after an incident involving a moving truck during a domestic dispute.
After the loss of his father, Henry Jr. was raised with the support of his father's former teammates, including Pacman Jones, who played a significant role in his upbringing. This background adds a layer of resilience to Henry Jr.'s journey as he embarks on his collegiate career at Ohio State, a program known for its rich football tradition and commitment to developing talent.
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