"I still feel good about my commitment": 2026 class five-star WR Chris Henry Jr speaks about taking a visit to Alabama game

By Maliha

Modified Aug 24, 2024 14:31 GMT

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Five-star wide receiver Chris Henry Jr. announced his commitment to Ohio State in July 2023. The son of the late NFL receiver Chris Henry, Henry Jr. is drawing attention from top programs across the nation, even after his commitment to the Buckeyes.

Alabama is leading the charge among schools still actively pursuing Henry, and according to On3's Chad Simmons, the 6-foot-5, 195-pound prospect is considering a visit to Alabama for a game this season.

“I visited once when coach Nick Saban was there, but I have been talking more to (wide receivers) coach JaMarcus Shephard and I want to get out there to check out a game," Henry told On3.

Alabama has cornerback Dorian Barney committed to its 2026 class.

Oregon is also in hot pursuit of Henry. After securing the commitment of another top receiver, Dakorien Moore, the Ducks are eyeing Henry as a potential addition to form a formidable receiving duo. Other programs like USC, Texas and Tennessee are also high on Henry, but he remains committed to Ohio State.

“Coach Brian Hartline and the development that he has done there has always stood out," Henry told A to Z Sports. "How is a great teacher who knows how to develop players and get them drafted. How he coaches our relationships are things that stand out to me about him."

However, Henry will not shut down the door of his recruitment journey.

“I still feel good about my commitment, but I will continue to take visits and still evaluate things at the different schools that are recruiting me," Henry told On3.

Henry is the only commit in Ohio State's 2026 class. The school also remains in the mix for several prospects, including running back Jonaz Walton, wide receiver Devin Carter, tight end Jude Cascone, interior offensive lineman Zykie Helton and defensive lineman Vodney Cleveland.

Chris Henry Jr. kicks off the 2024 season with a bang

Chris Henry Jr. kicked off his 2024 season in style with a phenomenal performance in his debut for Mater Dei High School in Santa Ana, California, on Thursday. After transferring from Withrow High School in Ohio to Mater Dei in February, the wide receiver's debut did not disappoint.

With seven minutes and 20 seconds remaining in the second quarter, Henry announced his arrival and soared above a Corona Centennial defender to secure a four-yard touchdown.

Henry’s touchdown contributed to Mater Dei's season-opening 42-25 victory over Corona Centennial. The school's defense was dominant in the second half, allowing only a touchdown in the final seconds of the game.

As a multi-sport athlete, Chris Henry's talents extend beyond the football field, as he plays basketball and has competed in track at the prep level. He is ranked by On3 as the nation's No. 2 overall prospect in the 2026 class, the No. 1 wide receiver and the No. 1 prospect in California. 247Sports places him as the nation's No. 3 overall prospect in the class, the No. 1 wide receiver and the No. 1 prospect in the state.