2023 Four-Star Athlete Malik Hartford Includes Buckeyes in Top 7

Ohio State is in good shape for a couple of Cincinnati prospects. After offensive lineman Austin Siereveld included the Buckeyes in his top six yesterday, four-star athlete Malik Hartford included the Buckeyes in his top seven this morning.

Hartford, who is rated as the No. 216 overall player in the 2023 class, the No. 18 athlete, and the No. 4 player in the state of Ohio, is expected to begin his career at either free safety or linebacker, but could eventually play wide receiver. He also plays a big role on special teams for Lakota West, one of the top teams in the GMC.

“He’s a very physical player who covers an insane amount of ground in a short period of time,” Lakota West head coach Tom Bolden said. “His IQ matches his ability. He makes coverage checks and takes great pride on being a difference-maker on special teams.”

The Buckeyes were included amongst several top teams from the midwest: Michigan State, Michigan, Cincinnati, Kentucky, West Virginia, and Notre Dame.