As the college football season comes to a close, the Ohio State Buckeyes are making waves in the transfer portal, with several key additions and departures that could reshape their roster heading into the 2024 season. Head coach Ryan Day and his staff are working to strengthen positions of need while also adjusting to the dynamic nature of college football, where the portal continues to be a critical tool for player acquisition and retention.
Ohio State has already made some impactful moves in the transfer portal. Perhaps the most notable is the addition of **cornerback Jyaire Brown** from Western Michigan. A standout in the MAC, Brown brings experience and the potential to bolster a Buckeyes secondary that saw some vulnerabilities in 2023. His ability to cover top receivers will be key as Ohio State aims to strengthen its defensive unit.
The Buckeyes also added depth to their offensive line with **transfer offensive lineman Josh Simmons** from San Diego State. With several key players from the 2023 season potentially leaving for the NFL, Simmons could help solidify the trenches and provide much-needed experience to protect whichever quarterback takes the helm in 2024.
Additionally, Ohio State has been active in searching for playmakers at wide receiver, following the departure of some key talents to the NFL Draft. Caleb Burton, a former four-star recruit who originally committed to the Buckeyes, has returned after spending a year at Alabama. His familiarity with the system and potential for high-impact plays could help fill the void left by outgoing stars.
On the flip side, Ohio State is also witnessing notable departures from the roster, a trend that has become common as players look for more immediate playing time or new opportunities. Several players have entered the transfer portal from the Buckeyes’ depth chart, particularly at positions like linebacker and running back. These departures reflect the competitive nature of the program, where talent is abundant, but opportunities for starting roles can be limited.
One significant departure is quarterback Devin Brown, who entered the portal after spending the 2023 season as a backup. Brown, who was highly touted as a recruit, seeks a fresh start, likely looking for a program where he can be a starting quarterback. While his departure raises questions about Ohio State’s quarterback depth, the team’s strong recruiting efforts suggest they have options for the future.
As the transfer portal period continues, Ohio State is likely to be a major player, with more potential additions and subtractions expected in the coming weeks. The Buckeyes have the resources and reputation to attract top-tier talent, and their moves in the portal will play a key role in the team’s success for the 2024 season.
With an eye on both immediate impact and long-term development, Ohio State’s strategic use of the portal will be crucial to maintaining their national title aspirations. The next few months will reveal how these additions and departures shape the Buckeyes as they prepare for another high-stakes season.