Projecting Who's Staying and Who's Leaving from Ohio State After Bowl Game
What started as a perfect year for defending champion Ohio State has ended with two surprising losses at the worst moments.
Back in Week 1, the Buckeyes edged top-ranked Texas and rolled to a 12-0 regular season. They boasted a nightmare of a defense—in the best possible way—and complemented that elite unit with an efficient offense.
Indiana, though, beat OSU in the Big Ten Championship Game. And in the College Football Playoff, Miami sprung a 24-14 upset on the second-ranked Buckeyes.
Uncomfortable feelings might now be creeping back into the fan base.
But, as always, we are happy to offer a reminder the sky continues to not fall in Columbus at one of the nation's most consistent contenders.
Who's Staying
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QB/RB/WR Stars
Once transfer movement quiets, Ohio State might not be the best. But in terms of a quarterback, running back and receiver trio, it's hard to beat the Buckeyes' group of Julian Sayin, Bo Jackson and Jeremiah Smith. No matter who surrounds that trifecta, OSU's skill-position group has an elite foundation.
Experienced Offensive Line
In theory, the Bucks can return all five starters up front plus depth. Left tackle Austin Siereveld is a pro-caliber player, however, and Tegra Tshabola may pursue the NFL. Yet even if both depart, left guard Luke Montgomery, center Carson Hinzman and right tackle Phillip Daniels can return. Gabe VanSickle played often at right guard late in 2025, and Ian Moore made a spot start at right tackle.
Some Defenders, I Promise
No sugarcoating this one: Ohio State's defense will be reloading in 2026. The bright side is the Buckeyes have done it before—uh, this season—and they keep a few impactful players. Among them are defensive tackle Eddrick Houston, linebacker Payton Pierce, corner Devin Sanchez and safety Jaylen McClain.
Who's Leaving
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Top NFL Talent
Once again, OSU fans will be tuned in closely for the opening round of the NFL draft. Wide receiver Carnell Tate, linebackers Arvell Reese and Sonny Styles and safety Caleb Downs are expected Day 1 choices, and defensive tackle Kayden McDonald is a strong first-round candidate.
And the Rest of the NFL Talent
Buckle up, there's more. Tight end Max Klare, edge-rushers Kenyatta Jackson Jr. and Caden Curry and cornerbacks Davison Igbinosun and Jermaine Mathews Jr. are simply a handful of the Buckeyes' other pro-worthy players. Ohio State is likely going to challenge Georgia's record of 15 selections in a single draft.
Outgoing Transfers
In the wake of the Buckeyes' final game, the portal is about to get busier. For example, backup QB Lincoln Kienholz has indicated he will consider a transfer in order to get playing time instead of sitting behind Sayin. Others in comparable situations may choose to leave OSU, as well.
Who's on the Way
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Shocker, a 5-Star Receiver
For the fourth straight cycle, Ohio State has signed a 5-star wideout. The latest in line is Chris Henry Jr., the 10th-ranked prospect in the country. Henry presumably won't be the last of the streak, although the departure of elite recruiter Brian Hartline—now the head coach at South Florida—is significant to note.
Top-5 Recruiting Class
Henry commands the spotlight, but OSU boasts five additional top-100 prospects and 18 more blue-chippers in its signing class. Edge-rusher Khary Wilder (42nd), linebacker Cincere Johnson (50th) and offensive tackle Sam Greer (51st) are the next-best players in the 28-man haul.
Impact Transfers
Every year, the Buckeyes are among the nation's highest-rated recruiting classes. But in today's transfer-filled era, it would be foolish—cough, Clemson—to ignore the portal. Ohio State wins, great players want to win and Ohio State likes great players. Some big-name additions will be headed OSU's way.
