Ohio State’s football program has significantly strengthened its roster through the transfer portal, adding key players who are expected to make immediate impacts in the 2025 season. These strategic acquisitions address critical positions and enhance the team’s depth, aligning with Head Coach Ryan Day’s vision to build a more dynamic and competitive squad.
One of the most notable additions is offensive tackle Ethan Onianwa from Rice University. Standing at 6-foot-6 and weighing 345 pounds, Onianwa is regarded as the best offensive lineman in the transfer portal. ESPN analyst Tom Luginbill expressed surprise that Onianwa did not declare for the NFL Draft, highlighting his exceptional skills. His presence is expected to bolster the offensive line, providing elite protection for quarterbacks like Julian Sayin or Tavien St. Clair.
To address the quarterback position, Ohio State secured Will Howard from Kansas State. Howard brings a wealth of experience, having accumulated 5,786 passing yards and 48 touchdowns during his tenure with the Wildcats. His dual-threat capability, with 921 rushing yards and 19 touchdowns, offers versatility to the Buckeyes’ offense. Howard’s leadership and playmaking ability are anticipated to elevate the team’s performance in the upcoming season.
In the backfield, Ohio State added running backs Quinshon Judkins from Ole Miss and CJ Donaldson from West Virginia. Judkins, known for his power running, complements the explosive style of returning star TreVeyon Henderson. Donaldson, with over 2,000 rushing yards and 30 touchdowns in three seasons, provides a physical presence to the running game. Together, they form a formidable trio that enhances the Buckeyes’ offensive depth.
Tight end Max Klare transferred from Purdue, where he led the team with 51 receptions for 685 yards in the 2024 season. Klare’s receiving prowess adds a new dimension to Ohio State’s offense, offering a reliable target in the passing game. His ability to create mismatches with defenders is expected to be a valuable asset in the Buckeyes’ offensive schemes.
On the defensive side, Ohio State secured edge rusher Beau Atkinson from North Carolina. Atkinson’s impressive performance, including 4.5 tackles for loss and 3.5 sacks in a single game against Florida State, earned him ACC Defensive Lineman of the Week honors. His addition bolsters the defensive line, providing a formidable pass-rushing threat and enhancing the team’s defensive capabilities.
To reinforce the secondary, Ohio State is reportedly interested in Mansoor Delane from Virginia Tech. Delane, a two-year starter with over 1,800 snaps played, offers versatility with the ability to play both cornerback and safety. His experience and skill set would provide depth and stability to the Buckeyes’ defensive backfield.
Freshman cornerback Devin Sanchez has already made a significant impression in Columbus. Gaining 17 pounds in two months, Sanchez now stands at 6-foot-2 and weighs 196 pounds. His physical development and adaptability to college-level strength training position him as a promising contributor to Ohio State’s defense.
Ohio State has also revitalized its connection with Cleveland’s Glenville High School, securing commitments from four-star recruits Bryce West (cornerback), Damarion Witten (tight end), and Arvell Reese (linebacker). This resurgence strengthens the Buckeyes’ ties to a historically significant pipeline, enriching the team’s talent pool with local prospects.
Through strategic acquisitions in the transfer portal and the recruitment of high-caliber freshmen, Ohio State has significantly enhanced its roster for the 2025 season. These additions address key areas of need and inject fresh talent into the program, positioning the Buckeyes for a competitive and successful season ahead.
