Safety Ronnie Hickman sent in his Letter of Intent to Ohio State on Wednesday, officially making him a member of the Buckeyes’ 2019 recruiting class.
Here’s a look at what he could mean for the future of the program.
Height: 6’1″
Weight: 200 lbs
Position: Safety
Hometown: Wayne, New Jersey
247 Composite Rating: 4-star, No. 112 player overall
Position Rank: No. 9 safety
When He Committed: April 2018, choosing the Buckeyes over programs like Michigan, Notre Dame, Penn State, Florida State, Florida, Nebraska, North Carolina, and Rutgers.
Projection: Hickman’s nickname is “Rocket” which is generally a good sign if you’re wondering if a guy is fast or not.
He was originally classified as an “athlete” by recruiting services, but will play safety for the Buckeyes.
Hickman plays for DePaul High School in New Jersey, against some of the best competition that state has to offer. Perennial powerhouses like Don Bosco Prep, Paramus Catholic, and Bergen Catholic are annual opponents.
Hickman was a two-way standout, starring at both running back in the defensive backfield.
Now he will follow in the footsteps of another safety from New Jersey, OSU captain Jordan Fuller.
Blast off in 3…2…1
BOOM! @asvprocket_ has landed. ? #BIA#GoBucks #Dynasty19 #NSD19 pic.twitter.com/Kg0OVaEfr8
— Ohio State Football (@OhioStateFB) December 19, 2018
Hickman plans to enroll early, but it’s not yet clear whether Fuller will be there when Hickman arrives. Fuller still has to decide whether he will turn pro after this season.
Whether he’s there or not, there is a lot of competition on the depth chart for Hickman.
Brendon White has seemingly locked down the free safety position, and Isaiah Pryor, Josh Proctor, Amir Riep, Jahsen Wint, and Marcus Hooker are all among the players fighting for a starting spot.
Like most speedy young Buckeyes, Hickman should be able to get on the field early on special teams.
By 2020 or 2021, he’ll have a chance to earn a major role with the defense as well.
