Ohio State Buckeyes Roster Shakeup: Transfer Portal Impact and 2026 Outlook

In-Depth Analysis

#### Quarterback

• **Additions:** Justyn Martin (UCLA/Maryland)
• **Departures:** Lincoln Kienholz (Louisville)

Ohio State strategically added depth at quarterback with Justyn Martin, a move that addresses the anticipated departure of Kienholz. Julian Sayin is expected to remain the starter, providing stability and experience.

#### Running Back

• **Additions:** Ja’Kobi Jackson (Florida)
• **Departures:** James Peoles (Penn State), Sam Dixon (South Carolina)

The addition of Ja’Kobi Jackson brings experience to the running back room, supplementing the returning Bo Jackson. The departures of Peoles and Dixon create opportunities for younger backs to step up.

#### Wide Receiver

• **Additions:** Kyle Parker (LSU), Devin McCuin (UTSA)
• **Departures:** Mylan Graham (Notre Dame), Quincy Porter (Notre Dame), Bryson Rodgers (South Florida)

Ohio State addressed significant attrition at wide receiver by adding Parker and McCuin. The Buckeyes aim to offset the losses of several players, ensuring depth and talent at the position. Jeremiah Smith and Brandon Inniss are expected to lead the receiving corps.

#### Tight End

• **Additions:** Hunter Welcing (Northwestern), Mason Williams (Ohio)
• **Departures:** Jelani Thurman (North Carolina)

The tight end position sees an influx of experienced players with the additions of Welcing and Williams. These transfers aim to fill the void left by departures and enhance the team's versatility.

#### Offensive Line

• **Departures:** Tegra Tshabola (Kentucky), Justin Terry (Virginia Tech)

Despite some departures, Ohio State returns most of its starting offensive line. The team hopes returning starters can solidify the line and improve overall performance.

#### Defensive Line

• **Additions:** James Smith (Alabama), John Walker (UCF), Qua Russaw (Alabama)
• **Departures:** C.J. Hicks (USF)

The defensive line has been bolstered by key additions from the transfer portal. Smith and Walker are expected to make immediate impacts, enhancing the Buckeyes' defensive front. Russaw will add depth and talent to the defensive line.

#### Cornerback

• **Additions:** Cam Calhoun (Alabama, Utah, Michigan), Dominick Kelly (Georgia)
• **Departures:** Aaron Scott Jr. (Oregon)

After losing Scott, Ohio State moved quickly to replenish their depth with the additions of Calhoun and Kelly. The cornerback position aims to maintain its strength despite key departures.

#### Safety

• **Additions:** Earl Little Jr. (Florida State), Terry Moore (Duke)
• **Departures:** Faheem Delane (LSU)

Ohio State has significantly upgraded its safety position by adding Little and Moore, both expected to start. These additions aim to compensate for the loss of Caleb Downs and provide experience and leadership to the secondary.

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FAQ

Takeaways

• The transfer portal has significantly reshaped Ohio State's roster, impacting both offense and defense.
• Key additions aim to fill gaps left by significant departures, maintaining the team's competitiveness.
• The Buckeyes have strategically addressed needs at quarterback, wide receiver, defensive line, and safety through the portal.
• Returning starters and experienced transfers are expected to play crucial roles in the team's success in 2026.

Discussion

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