The Ohio State Buckeyes have experienced significant roster changes during the 2025 offseason, with several players entering the transfer portal and new talent joining the team.
These movements are poised to impact the team’s depth and performance in the upcoming season.
Departures: Key Players Enter the Transfer Portal
Devin Brown (QB): The backup quarterback has announced his transfer to the University of California. After entering the transfer portal on December 9, Brown chose to remain with the Buckeyes through the College Football Playoff, culminating in a national championship victory over Notre Dame. With two years of eligibility remaining, Brown aims to secure a starting role at Cal.
Hero Kanu (DL): The defensive lineman has entered the transfer portal, seeking new opportunities for the upcoming season.
Sam Williams-Dixon (RB): The running back has announced his intention to transfer, indicating a shift in the team’s backfield depth.
Mitchell Melton (Edge): The edge rusher has entered the transfer portal, potentially impacting the team’s pass-rushing capabilities.
George Fitzpatrick (OT): The offensive tackle has entered the transfer portal, which may affect the team’s offensive line depth.
Jayden Ballard (WR): The wide receiver has announced his intention to transfer, signaling a change in the team’s receiving corps.
Additions: New Talent Joining the Buckeyes
Phillip Daniels (OT): The offensive tackle transferred from Minnesota, bringing experience to bolster the offensive line.
Logan George (Edge): The edge rusher transferred from Idaho State, adding depth to the defensive line.
CJ Donaldson (RB): The running back transferred from West Virginia, providing additional options in the backfield.
Gabe Powers (LB): The linebacker transferred from Ohio State, offering depth to the linebacker corps.
Jayden Ballard (WR): The wide receiver transferred from Ohio State, contributing to the receiving corps.
Impact on the 2025 Season
The departures of key players like Devin Brown and Hero Kanu may lead to adjustments in the team’s depth chart and game strategies. However, the additions of experienced transfers such as Phillip Daniels and Logan George are expected to strengthen the offensive and defensive lines, respectively. The influx of talent through the transfer portal reflects Ohio State’s proactive approach to maintaining competitiveness in the evolving landscape of college football.
As the 2025 season approaches, the Buckeyes’ coaching staff will need to integrate these new players effectively while addressing the gaps left by departing athletes. The team’s ability to adapt to these changes will be crucial in their pursuit of continued success in the upcoming season.
