The college football world is buzzing after Ohio State quarterback Lincoln Kienholz publicly acknowledged that he is uncertain about his future with the Buckeyes. Speaking candidly to reporters, Kienholz admitted he is undecided on whether he will stay at Ohio State or explore opportunities elsewhere. While expressing his love for the program and its culture, his comments reflect the difficult decision many college athletes face in today’s dynamic landscape of competition, playing time, and transfer portal opportunities.
“I would love to stay here,” Kienholz said during an interview earlier this week. “Ohio State is a special place, and I’ve learned so much being part of this program. But I also have to think about what’s best for my career and my development as a quarterback.”
Kienholz’s uncertainty stems from Ohio State’s highly competitive quarterback room. The Buckeyes consistently recruit top talent, making it one of the most challenging programs for any quarterback to secure consistent playing time.
The 6-foot-3 freshman from Pierre, South Dakota, was a highly touted recruit in the 2023 class. Known for his athleticism and arm strength, Kienholz joined a quarterback group that includes current starter Kyle McCord, backup Devin Brown, and incoming freshman Air Noland, a five-star recruit.
This logjam at the position has raised questions about whether Kienholz will have a realistic opportunity to compete for the starting role in the coming years. With McCord entrenched as the starter and Brown as his primary backup, Kienholz has seen limited action, mostly in practice and mop-up duty during blowout games.
The NCAA transfer portal has become a game-changer in college football, giving players the flexibility to seek new opportunities without sitting out a season. Kienholz acknowledged that the portal is a tempting option, especially given the likelihood of more playing time elsewhere.
“It’s hard not to think about the portal when you see so many guys finding success after transferring,” Kienholz said. “But it’s not an easy decision. Leaving a place like Ohio State isn’t something you take lightly.”
Several programs around the country would undoubtedly welcome Kienholz’s talent. His dual-threat ability and high football IQ make him an attractive option for teams looking for an immediate contributor at quarterback.
Despite the uncertainty, Kienholz has received support from his teammates and coaching staff. Head coach Ryan Day praised the young quarterback for his work ethic and potential.
“Lincoln is a talented player, and we’re excited about his future here,” Day said. “We know it’s a competitive environment, but we believe in his ability to grow and contribute to this program.”
Teammates have also rallied around Kienholz, emphasizing the camaraderie and family atmosphere within the team. Wide receiver Marvin Harrison Jr. called Kienholz “one of the hardest-working guys on the team” and said he hopes the quarterback remains with the Buckeyes.
For Kienholz, the decision ultimately comes down to balancing his loyalty to Ohio State with his personal goals. While he cherishes the experience of being part of one of college football’s premier programs, the desire for meaningful playing time and development could lead him to seek opportunities elsewhere.
“This program means everything to me, but I have to think about what’s best for my future,” Kienholz said. “At the end of the day, I want to be the best quarterback I can be, whether that’s here or somewhere else.”
Kienholz plans to take time during the offseason to evaluate his options. He expressed gratitude for the support he has received from the coaching staff and his teammates and emphasized that no decision has been made yet.
“I’m going to talk with my family, my coaches, and the people I trust,” Kienholz said. “I want to make the right decision, not just for next season but for my career.”
As Ohio State prepares for the postseason and looks ahead to next year, the future of its quarterback room remains one of the most intriguing storylines. Whether Kienholz decides to stay and compete for a role or explore opportunities elsewhere, his decision will have a significant impact on the Buckeyes and the broader college football landscape.