Chris Henry Jr., a 5-star wide receiver committed to Ohio State, continues to make headlines—not just for his elite talent, but also for his off-the-field value. According to On3, Henry Jr. holds a projected NIL valuation of $403,000, a figure fueled by his status as the No. 2 wide receiver and No. 9 overall prospect in the 2026 class. Despite intense pressure and a reported $2 million offer from Oregon in an attempt to flip him, Henry Jr. has officially shut down his recruitment and reaffirmed his commitment to the Buckeyes.
Henry Jr. committed to Ohio State back in July 2023, before even beginning his sophomore year of high school. The Mater Dei (Santa Ana, California) product has since emerged as one of the crown jewels of the 2026 recruiting class. With elite route-running, size, and NFL bloodlines—he is the son of the late Chris Henry Sr.—Henry Jr. has long been a high-priority target for top programs across the country.
Originally slated to take official visits to Oregon, USC, and Miami, Henry Jr. has since canceled all visits, signaling a firm stance in his pledge to Ohio State. He will next be in Columbus from June 20-22 for an official visit, showing continued loyalty to Ryan Day’s program. His commitment strengthens Ohio State’s already-loaded recruiting class and bolsters their wide receiver room for years to come.
The Buckeyes’ robust NIL infrastructure, which helped them assemble a $20 million roster in 2024, likely played a role in maintaining Henry Jr.’s commitment. His $403,000 NIL valuation reflects both his football talent and marketability as one of the most recognizable names in the 2026 class. As the recruitment cycle rolls on, Henry Jr. stands as a prime example of the balance between on-field potential and NIL influence in the modern college football landscape.
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