The Ohio State Buckeyes are in a familiar position: facing the challenge of replacing multiple NFL Draft picks. With 11 players selected in the recent NFL Draft, the team is now tasked with filling the void and regrouping for another College Football Playoff run. This is a familiar scenario for the program, and it presents an intriguing opportunity to assess the depth and potential of the remaining roster.
Personally, I think this is an interesting test for the Buckeyes. It's a chance to see how well the team has developed young talent and filled holes during the spring practices. The NFL Draft is a significant loss, but it also provides an opportunity to showcase the program's ability to adapt and improve.
One thing that immediately stands out is the quarterback position. Julian Sayin, a Heisman Trophy finalist, has shown promise with his legs, which is a refreshing change of pace. His ability to use his mobility adds a new dimension to the offense and gives me confidence in the position. Additionally, the backup quarterback, Tavien St. Clair, has shown progress and a strong arm, which is a positive sign for the team's depth.
The running back position, however, remains a bit uncertain. Injuries have hampered the progress of projected top backs, but the transfer of Ja'Kobi Jackson from Florida shows promise. Jackson's ability to move well in the hole and his strength as a red zone and short-yardage back make him an intriguing option. It will be interesting to see how the coaching staff utilizes him and whether he can fill the void left by the departed players.
The receiving corps, on the other hand, is deeper than expected. With superstar Jeremiah Smith locked into a starting position and Brandon Inniss expected to start as well, the Buckeyes have a solid foundation. The addition of transfers Devin McCuin and Kyle Parker, along with freshman Chris Henry Jr., provides further depth. While replacing the No. 4 NFL Draft pick, Carnell Tate, will be challenging, the Buckeyes have at least five receivers to lean on, with freshmen Brock Boyd and Jerquaden Guilford also in the mix.
The offensive line, unfortunately, remains a question mark. Injuries have been a significant issue during spring practices, and the unit struggled in the scrimmage. The best group includes Ian Moore at left tackle, Luke Montgomery at left guard, Carson Hinzman at center, Austin Siereveld at right guard, and Phillip Daniels at right tackle. However, the competition for the sixth lineman is fierce, with Joshua Padilla, Gabe VanSickle, and others vying for playing time.
The tight ends, however, show big upside. Replacing Max Klare and Will Kacmarek, two Day 2 NFL Draft picks, won't be easy, but the Buckeyes have a high-potential tight end in Nate Roberts. Roberts, a 6-5, 240-pounder with blocking experience, showed versatility catching passes in the spring. If the team goes under center more often with the new offensive coordinator, Roberts could be a significant weapon.
The interior defensive line, on the other hand, shines. Will Smith Jr., a smaller but mobile and versatile tackle, surprised everyone with his performance in the spring game. He tipped a pass that led to an interception and was disruptive throughout. The unit possesses all the tools to be elite again, and I have faith in it if the edge rushers can step up.
The linebacker depth is also showing promise, but the rotation remains unknown. With the loss of Riley Pettijohn, the unit will be tested, but Payton Pierce is a lock to start, and Christian Alliegro is versatile. The coaching staff will need to determine the exact rotation and how to deploy the players effectively.
What many people don't realize is that the cornerback position might be the best group on the defense. Devin Sanchez, a five-star sophomore, has the tools to develop into an All-American corner. His battles with Jeremiah Smith in practice have been tight, and he looks prepared for the challenge. The addition of Georgia transfer Dominick Kelly provides key depth, and the corner duo of Sanchez and Kelly in the red zone can eliminate jump balls.
Transfers are settling in at safety, with Jaylen McClain looking even more locked in than last season. Duke transfer Terry Moore earned the job in the spring game, and Florida State transfer Earl Little Jr. is crucial to the defense. Little's ability to help with disguised multiple coverages makes him a key player. I've been high on this unit since the additions of Moore and Little, and that hasn't changed.
In conclusion, the Ohio State Buckeyes are facing an interesting challenge. With 11 NFL Draft picks, the team is now tasked with filling the void and regrouping for another College Football Playoff run. The quarterback position shows promise, the receiving corps is deeper than expected, and the interior defensive line shines. However, the offensive line and running back position remain question marks. The team will need to adapt and improve, and it will be fascinating to see how they navigate this transition and emerge as a competitive force in the upcoming season.
